AudioCircle

Industry Circles => Salk Signature Sound => Topic started by: adydula on 19 Jan 2009, 11:11 pm

Title: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 19 Jan 2009, 11:11 pm
Ok,

I  know there are bits and pieces of great music in many threads, but I would like to see a thread that has references to really great recordings that you all have experienced. The kind you play to show off your Song Towers....and for that matter any of the Salk or other speakers.

Yes I have a hidden agenda here, I am a few weeks away (fingers crossed) from taking delivery of a new pair of SongTowers..and want to try some new stuff!!

I have hundreds of CD's and have some favorites I will share as well.

I am not a snobby type of person and dont care if its Jazz, Rock or Classical....

I am looking more towards the traditional 2 channel stereo cd's....the ones that are really well produced, mixed  and have great dynamic range..

So I will start it off with a few of my favorites:

Richard Souther's "Cross Currents."
Year Released: 1990.

Track 5 : Mary's Question and the transistion into Track 6: High Tide.

The entire cd is very well recorded and really shines in my humble opinion. I believe its classified as "New Age". I very much like the entire CD and it has many low to high transitions, synths, snappy sounds and just a great all around demo CD.

Ok thats one....I will add many more over the life of this thread!

Alex

PART ONE & PART TWO LINK TO LIST of RECOMMENDED CDs in THIS Thread as of 11/12/09:
http://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=63936.msg693819#msg693819

PART THREE LINK TO LIST of RECOMMENDED CDs In THIS Thread as of 12/29/09:
http://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=63936.msg712398#msg712398

PART FOUR LINK TO LIST of RECOMMENDED CDs In THIS Thread as of 9/29/10:
http://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=63936.msg842137#msg842137

Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Mag on 20 Jan 2009, 12:05 am
My demo disc for showing off dynamic range if I had someone to demo for, would be Kitaro-Cirque Ingenieux- New Age, electronic.
 It's also one of my favorite music albums, though I'm sure not very many people share my taste in music. Be careful with the volume control on this, the bass has a sonic boom like quality.
Speaking of sonic boom like quality bass. You might try the song by Rob Zombie- Reload. Again be careful with the volume control! :nono:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 20 Jan 2009, 12:19 am
Mag,

Thanks for the suggestions, I will add as you warn alot of the really wide dynamic range cds will 'hurt' things if the volume isnt judiciously applied !!  I always listen thru at a lower level and go back and crank it up etc...

I have popped things in my younger days!!

I will look into the Kitaro-Cirque Igenieux New Age....some i like some i dont, but at least we can explore and find new things that will make us smile!

One of the classic "Gold Master" type of demo CD is the original "James Newton Howard and Friends: on the Sheffield Labs Lable.  It's a collaborative effort between James Newton Howard on the keyboard and Jeff Porcaro on drums. The album was originally recorded directly to disk with only one break.

It can be bought on Amazon for $4-5 bucks!!!

It was released way back in 1985 and has stood the test of time.

Track 6 " Borealis: is really awesome to me...talk about transparency....

The whole CD will make you smile!!!!!

Enjoy
Alex




 
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: carusoracer on 20 Jan 2009, 03:24 pm
I'm not sure if Jim is still doing it but...The Salk Demo disc that was provided with my speakers is very good. :thumb:

I find that there really is no need for a "Demo Disc" as I'm a professed Demo Compilation junky. The Salk products will clearly show off the good and the not sound good qualities of all music recordings. You will hear many things on tracks and rediscover your own collection of tunes 8)
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 20 Jan 2009, 07:50 pm
Understand the no need for a demo disc or cd..but the deal here is to share the best of the best that each of have heard over time...they for many are demo cd's the ones we show of our systems by etc...and I am looking forward to Jims CD for sure.

Music being as it is covers such a very wide variety of differnt styles / types etc.....so many songs, tunes, cds etc....

I do indeed look forward to re-listening to many of my existing CD's but look forward to many new ones, ones that I may not even be aware of.....

Some of the stuff that I consider really great stuff (demo or not) are 10-20 yers old, and some people may not even have heard of them...

So the intent here is to share the enjoyment, whats really good to listen to on great speakers etc...

So ok guys/gals lets have it!!

Alex
 :D
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: TJC712 on 21 Jan 2009, 12:16 am
Jim Salk just alerted me to this thread.  He's probably getting tired of all the emails I've sent elaborating on how great a track sounded on my new Song Towers (he's always looking to add tracks to his demo CD).  I just received the ST/RT's on Fri.  I have to say that everything that I play through them sounds GREAT.  Even more amazing is that I'm currently using them with a Samsung HT amp; no high end, big dollar source equipment.  Still, every track that I throw at them sounds GREAT. Deep, rich, clean, "musical" bass response that seems to contradict what I see (Where's it coming from?")... distinct, articulate mids... ribbon tweeters that just soar... I just keep on getting blown away.  I physically removed the Samsung Sub... sounds better without it.

Anyway, everyday brings new pleasure as I listen to a variety of music.  Tracks I've heard many times before are bringing smiles to my face as I hear them for the first time through the ST's.  Jim suggested I share some of these on this thread... Love to!

Some Other Sunset, My Romance by David Benoit on the Waiting for Spring CD
Walk Between the Raindrops, The Goodbye Look, Ruby Baby by Donald Fagen... The Nightfly CD
Any track off of Aja or Two Against Nature by Steely Dan
There's a Small Hotel... Tony Bennett... Sings the Rogers and Hart Songbook
Freedom is a Voice... Bobby McFerrin
Return to Paradise... Shirley Horn... Here's to Life CD
Any track off of the Two Men With the Blues CD which is a live concert by Willie Nelson and Wynton Marsalis
God Bless the Child... Old Blood, Sweat and Tears
Precious by Esperanza Spalding... Esperanza CD
This Moment Is All There Is by Lenny Kravitz... Love Revolution CD
Nora Jones Cold, Cold Heart... Come Away with Me CD
I Was Brought to my Senses.. Sting's Mercury Falling CD
As If We Never Said Goodbye... Tony Corbiscello Big Band... Real Time CD (Top shelf trumpet playing)

For you HT people...
The Sting DVD "All This Time" which was recorded at his villa in Italy on 9/11/01 is pretty special... again, blew me away thru the ST's

OK, that's enough for now before you guys ban me! 

Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: carusoracer on 21 Jan 2009, 12:47 am
McIntosh SACD Demo disc
NYAR Rave disc 07-08
Naim Samplers
Jazz at the Pawnshop
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 21 Jan 2009, 12:56 am
TJC

WOW!!

Many thanks for the list!!! Its pretty impressive.

I have listened to Blood Sweet and Tears, way back when I don't have any of their discs, but have some really old vinyl...but no turntable,
but I will look into getting this on a CD.

I have lots of David Benoit but not the one you mention.

Nora Jones I do have and I melt in my listening chair everytime I play this CD!!  :D

Thanks much for the list, this is exactly what I was looking for and hope others share their experience etc..

Another of my favorites is another Steve Bach:

"More Than a Dream"
Released in 1988

Its a wonderful, instrumental that is "alive" with keyboards and the like...listen to the wonderful Korg M1 on the "RainDance" track. "For a Long Time" and "Fast Break" have had lots of airtime. Whatever your taste in instrumental music I guarantee that there will be at least one track on this CD that will please.

Back has played with Stanley Clarke and Kitaro, this was I think his 4th CD and its probably the most popular and its really done very well.

All the best
Alex

Carusoracer....YES "Jazz at the Pawnshop" I bought the original vinyl many years back and have the cd's ,,its and stadard that I used to really enjoy on my Magnpans (another long time ago!!). I cant wait to play this set on the QWT's!
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: TJC712 on 21 Jan 2009, 03:33 am
Ya know, you just made me realize that my "Jazz from the Pawnshop" is missing. I'm downloading from Amazon as we speak. Haven't listened to that in a while.  I'll have to check out Steve Bach tracks.   Chet Baker's Last Great Concert is a favorite also.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: lonewolfny42 on 21 Jan 2009, 06:27 am
Here's a list of tracks from some of the NY Audio Rave Cd's...all good tunes... :thumb:



Wynton Marsalis Quartet - "Feeling Of Jazz" (The Magic Hour)

The Bad Plus - " Keep The Bugs Off Your Glass, And The Bears Off Your Ass" (These Are The Vistas)

Bozzio, Levin, Stevens - "Duende" (Black Light Syndrome)

Ben Harper - "Gold To Me" (Fight for Your Mind)

Morphine - "Buena" (Cure for Pain)

Nils Lofgren - "Keith Don’t Go" (Acoustic Live)

Mino Cinelu - "Oncoming Horizons" (Mino Cinelu)

Copland - "Fanfare For The Common Man" (Copland: Appalachian Spring; Rodeo; Fanfare for the Common Man -Louis Lane, and Atlanta Symphony Orchestra on Telarc)

Ben Vaughn - “Too Happy” (Designs in Music)

Rimsky-Korsakov - “Dance Of The Tumblers”  (Eiji Oue/ Minnesota Orch.)

Dean Peer -“Mars” (Think...It's All Good)

Weather Report - "Confians" (Sportin' Life)

Bernadette Peters - "Blackbird" (I'll Be Your Baby Tonight)
 

And my fav.... :rock:

ZZ Top - ""La Grange" (Tres Hombres)  :beer:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: S Clark on 21 Jan 2009, 06:44 am
Here's a list of tracks from some of the NY Audio Rave Cd's...all good tunes... :thumb:



Wynton Marsalis Quartet - "Feeling Of Jazz" (The Magic Hour)

The Bad Plus - " Keep The Bugs Off Your Glass, And The Bears Off Your Ass" (These Are The Vistas)

Bozzio, Levin, Stevens - "Duende" (Black Light Syndrome)

Ben Harper - "Gold To Me" (Fight for Your Mind)

Morphine - "Buena" (Cure for Pain)

Nils Lofgren - "Keith Don’t Go" (Acoustic Live)

Mino Cinelu - "Oncoming Horizons" (Mino Cinelu)

Copland - "Fanfare For The Common Man" (Copland: Appalachian Spring; Rodeo; Fanfare for the Common Man -Louis Lane, and Atlanta Symphony Orchestra on Telarc)

Ben Vaughn - “Too Happy” (Designs in Music)

Rimsky-Korsakov - “Dance Of The Tumblers”  (Eiji Oue/ Minnesota Orch.)

Dean Peer -“Mars” (Think...It's All Good)

Weather Report - "Confians" (Sportin' Life)

Bernadette Peters - "Blackbird" (I'll Be Your Baby Tonight)
 

And my fav.... :rock:

ZZ Top - ""La Grange" (Tres Hombres)  :beer:

What timing.  I was just listening to a copy of the "Reference Tracks"-2006 from a NY audio rave that Chris sent me about a year ago.  Most of the above songs were included and they are all top notch :thumb:

Scott
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 21 Jan 2009, 05:35 pm
Lonewolf, S Clark...

Thanks for the listings!!

I do have the Telarc's early CD of Copelands Fanfare!!! Yes its pretty good!

They have a telarc volume 1 sampler on Amazon for 92 cents!!! yes less than a buck with $3 shipping and handling!!  :o

I will have to pick up the Bernadtte Peters one..this sounds great to me.


Where can you get the reference tracks 2006 you mention?

Thanks
Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: charmerci on 21 Jan 2009, 06:14 pm
Each of these CD's not only sound great but the performances are flawless and stunning. All jazz except Simon.

Dave Grusin's Discovered Again -

Cripple Creek Breakdown
Sun Song
Keep Your Eye on the Sparrow

Every instrument sounds exactly like it should. (The old version had quite a bit of tape hiss.)

Bill Evans - Waltz for Debbie (though you have to put up with clinking glasses and some background conversation and mumbling throughout the performance)

Interestingly, I have a few CD's that sound just OK at moderate levels but when I really turn up the volume, i.e. just before my tiny little woofers bottom out, they sound as close to live as you can get. Gotta turn off those lights.

Paul Simon's There Goes Rhymin' Simon
(This is the original CD. I haven't heard the remastered version. I sometimes find the remastered CD's -especially 24bit ones - metalic sounding)

Zoot Sims At Ease - Alabamy Home

Junior Mance at the Village Vanguard

Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 21 Jan 2009, 07:15 pm
Here's a list of tracks from some of the NY Audio Rave Cd's...all good tunes... :thumb:
Yes they are.  aa

Bob
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 22 Jan 2009, 12:01 am
Charmerci!

I am slowly letting out all my favorites and exceptional CD's...and Dave Grusin in on my list as well!!

Discovered Again is really a treat.

A lot of the early GRP lable CD's are really, really good.

I will share my GRP list over time as well.


The James Newton Howard and Friends is an early GRP label....

The musicians on these GRP  discs are really professional, outstanding  artists and they did a really great job mastering and
producing the tracks for sure.

Later
Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: S Clark on 22 Jan 2009, 12:09 am
My absolute favorite is Vienna Tang's "Waking Hour", with Lyle Lovette's "Joshua Judges Ruth" right behind it.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Mag on 22 Jan 2009, 01:56 am
My demo disc for showing off dynamic range if I had someone to demo for, would be New Age, electronic.
 It's also one of my favorite music albums, though I'm sure not very many people share my taste in music. Be careful with the volume control on this, the bass has a sonic boom like quality.
Speaking of sonic boom like quality bass. You might try the song by Rob Zombie- Reload. Again be careful with the volume control! :nono:

I wanted to add for those inclined to get this cd Kitaro-Cirque Ingenieux. That when I play this cd in stereo, the omni-directional properties of the bass are not as apparent as when I have the bass routed out of my sub in my MC setup. It will still be a full workout for any speaker that can play the whole sound spectrum.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: TJC712 on 22 Jan 2009, 02:11 am
Each of these CD's not only sound great but the performances are flawless and stunning. All jazz except Simon.

Dave Grusin's Discovered Again -

Cripple Creek Breakdown
Sun Song
Keep Your Eye on the Sparrow

Every instrument sounds exactly like it should. (The old version had quite a bit of tape hiss.)

Bill Evans - Waltz for Debbie (though you have to put up with clinking glasses and some background conversation and mumbling throughout the performance)

Interestingly, I have a few CD's that sound just OK at moderate levels but when I really turn up the volume, i.e. just before my tiny little woofers bottom out, they sound as close to live as you can get. Gotta turn off those lights.

Paul Simon's There Goes Rhymin' Simon
(This is the original CD. I haven't heard the remastered version. I sometimes find the remastered CD's -especially 24bit ones - metalic sounding)

Zoot Sims At Ease - Alabamy Home

Junior Mance at the Village Vanguard



Grusin's Homage to Duke is killer stuff.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 22 Jan 2009, 02:25 am
I bought most of the GRP Label CD's back when they first came out...they were really into the direct to disc, "do it non-stop in one siting mode"....quite electric, the original vinyl was awesome...but many are hard to obtain, the cds are readily available.

There is a very good Sampler called Creme de la Creme...Gourmet Selections from SHeffield Labs.

Another great one is the " I've got the music in me" by Thelma Houston & Pressure Cooker"  CD-2. (Circa 1975).

The vinyl was the best at the time, but the CD is really good as well.

Thanks everyones great cd's and selections....I will be spending some $$$$$ !!

Alex
 :thumb:


Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Freo-1 on 22 Jan 2009, 02:28 am
Dead Can Dance Boxed Set.

The music is truly unique, and the recording quality is outstanding.   aa
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: S Clark on 22 Jan 2009, 02:33 am
Another great one is the " I've got the music in me" by Thelma Houston & Pressure Cooker"  CD-2. (Circa 1975).

The vinyl was the best at the time, but the CD is really good as well.
I have a  DBX encoded vinyl copy that may be the most dynamic recording I have ever heard.  Those Sheffield Lab direct to disc were really something.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: martinr on 22 Jan 2009, 03:12 am
Cripple Creek - Out of the Woods

RY Cooder - Paradise and Lunch remaster!  Excellent CD, A lesson in the roots of American music
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 23 Jan 2009, 03:31 am
Ok,

Way back in the beginning there were DMP CD's...

One of the first CD's back then in November of 1982   was 'TriCycle' - Flim and The BB's.
CD-443. This was the first (if i recall correctly) jazz compact disc available to us in this very new and
debateable format / media. This disc was made to show off the dynamic range of this media, from complete silence to WHAM!! It won CD of the year award in CD Review Magazine and became the absolute standard for demo'ing and taking to the audio store to play on speakers , systems your were interested in hearing the best at the time.

I remember playing this CD's on my Magnapans back then (via a Denon DCD 3300) and absolutely was blown away and this particular disc....and it still is really special.

They also had "Big Notes" and "Tunnel" CDs..also really good.

I dont think you can buy these new anymore but I did check on Amazon and saw many used cd's for sale.

I think Jim has some history here....I read a post he put up somewhere else and it was nice to read how Jim was involved in this stuff way back then...3M, Minneapolis Studio Sound 80 and a 2 channel prototype digitial recorder...the rest is history..

If you havent heard this CD its worth a listen...and its kind of where it all started from, well kind of..
(Billy Barber - keyboard, Bill Berg - drums/precussion, Jimmy 'Flim' Johnson bass, and Dick Oatts - reeds).

Smiling

Alex
 :D
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Rocket on 23 Jan 2009, 10:51 am
Hi,

I have Flim & the BB's 'Big Note' cd from the 1980's.

Sorry it just doesn't sound that good on my system.  Have they have remastered it recently?

Regards

Rod
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 23 Jan 2009, 04:30 pm
Rocket,

Thanks for the reply....I dont have my Songtowers yet, hope in afew weeks and i will try my DMPS once again....Time has moved on and they were great bcak then but music and tastes being what they are change....

It will be interesting to relive the experience and if its less than stellar for me I will let you know!!

thanks
Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: fishinbob on 24 Jan 2009, 12:22 am
Rocket,

Thanks for the reply....I dont have my Songtowers yet, hope in afew weeks and i will try my DMPS once again....Time has moved on and they were great bcak then but music and tastes being what they are change....

It will be interesting to relive the experience and if its less than stellar for me I will let you know!!

thanks
Alex

Maybe it's our years showing but my copies of Flim sound better than ever. Most likely it's the Songtowers though.

I'd recommend track 11 Born to Love You on Big Notes for some dynamic range. Very nice piano, flute and sax but don't get lulled too much and turn up the volume because once the drums kick in be prepared to have your house filled with huge sound.  8)
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 24 Jan 2009, 12:57 am
Hey fishinbob!

Well I couldnt wait for the SongTowers to find out if the DMP discs are still any good anymore. So I listened to several tracks in the Big Notes CD, made in Japan.

Well sir....they are as stunning today on my Dahlquist QX10's as I can remember way back then on my 180 pound each Mirage M1's and those skinny Maggies.

Dang track 11 "Born to Love You" is a real sleeper and I forgot how wide the dynamics are on this cd and in this track....OMG is it wonderful or what....

It actually played rather well with the speakers I have...I cant wait to here these recordings on the Song Towers!

Funhouse, At the Hop are also excellent...its amazing how well these have held up over time

I havent listened to this CD in probably over 10 years and way back when we were all concerned with how long these new shiney digital discs would last...well I know now for sure!

I only saw  1 used copy for sale on Amazon for 29.89. I am glad I bought all of their cds way back when..

Can you say 'Sharp, Crisp, SNAPPY, bowl you over sound!

All the best
Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 25 Jan 2009, 01:09 am
Ok...

Listening to the local ALL jazz radio station one day in the late 80's I heard a tune playing called "Moroccan Junction". I missed who was playing this really 'different' instrumental and called the station up and asked who this was.

I was told it was a person named Kim Pensyl.

The CD was on the Optimism Records label and the CD was titled: Pensyl Sketches #1

It was released in 1988.

Well, this tune and the entire disc it 'electric', snappy, awesome bright stunning keyboards.

Kim Pensyl went on to make Sketches #2 and #3 and made a few CD's with GRP and others...

I have all three of the sketches with the #1 my favorite.

To make this even better I got to meet Kim and see him perform live as a warmup act for the Rippingtons....

He still performs in local establishments in Ohio according to his website...

The sketches #1 CD is very much electronic to say the least but it is very, very well put together....

Moroccan Junction will make your feet move or you dont have any!!  :lol:

This disc is going to sound soooooo good on the SongTowers!!

Enjoy
Alex







Well In 1988 on Optimism Records Kim Pensyl
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: TJC712 on 1 Feb 2009, 05:57 pm
Just listening to Duke's Blues In Orbit recording from 1959.  Pretty impressive remastered sound considering the date of recording.  Great joy listening to these oldies thru the ST's. Duke and his boys could swing a little!
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Mike Nomad on 1 Feb 2009, 06:39 pm
Even limiting the discussion to CD, the list is, functionally, endless. Picking things that have not shown up in posts (yet), and in no particular order:

Roberta Flack - Quiet Fire. Plain-ol' catalog release. Sounds straight off the three-track master. Demo: Get Up Moses.

Rhythm Devils - The Apocalypse Now Sessions. On Ryko, and maybe out of print. All percussion, big room sound, and electronics that separate Those That Can from Those That Can't. Demo: Napalm For Breakfast.

Bad Company - Bad Co. An Audio Fidelity gold disc, mastered by Steve Hoffman. Demo: Seagull. Hell, the whole disc.

Leon Russell - Leon Russell. A DCC gold disc, mastered by Steve Hoffman. Demo: A Song For You.

Cowboy Junkies - Trinity Sessions. Another Plain-ol' catalog release. Besides demonstrating why Ambisonics is everything Dolby Anything will never be, this disc is an excellent soundstage/depth/placement test. Demo: All of it.

And here's where it gets to something like shooting fish in a barrel. I've picked up two titles on SHM-CD, Stanley Turrentine's 'Stan "The Man" Turrentine,' and the Rolling Stone's 'Let It Bleed.' Having A/Bd the Stones record against the DSD remasters, the new plastic/process makes an embarrassingly huge difference. No, it doesn't make a CD sound like an SACD, but the SHM-CD way of doing things definitely leaves a regular CD in the dust.

In short, I think all of our favorite demo lists are in for a major re-write.

Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 2 Feb 2009, 06:16 pm
Hi Mike,

Interesting comments about our favorites, especially the old ones as they are re-mastered etc...

The reason I limiited the discussion to 2 ch stereo was 2 fold..one I am looking for really good recording and stuff to add to my collection to play on my new
SongTower QWT's when they are done and to limit the endless possibiites over time....

I have listened to may 5.1 discs, and musically they can be stunning for sure and maybe we will start a 5.1 , SACD, DVD-A demo thread in the future!.

But for now I would like to just keep plowing on with really great 2 ch CD's.

Thanks for your list, I will be spending some more $$$ at Amazon based on your suggestions for sure...

Come on guys and gals we got to help get this economy going but some cd!! :D

All the best
Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 4 Feb 2009, 02:55 am
Well I just got a new CD, Patricia Barber, Live: A Fortnight in France [LIVE] ....

I saw this used by another person when he was looking at several speakers.

I never heard of this artist and I must say what a pleasant surprise!

I liked most of the tracks and Ms Barber and this group really get it on!!

I still do not have my SongTowers and have to listen on my Dahlquist QX10's and the music was
wonderful...a great demo CD for sure!

Many of you may already know of this CD and artist...but I hope someone else will discover this one like
I just did!!

Will re-listen for sure when the SongTowers arrive! :D

All the best
Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: TJC712 on 4 Feb 2009, 04:17 am
Patricia Barber is a very nice listen.  She does a Cole Porter tribute album that is interesting.  "Ella Fitzgerald Sings the Cole Porter Songbook" is a double CD set that is certainly worth the price of admission.  You are in for some pleasant "new" listening when you finally get those ST's.  Even when the recording quality on some selections is less than stellar (as your ST's will certainly reveal), the music is just great to hear.  Great recording/poor recording... you still capture the mood.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: John_E_Janowitz on 4 Feb 2009, 04:22 am

Bozzio, Levin, Stevens - "Duende" (Black Light Syndrome)


My favorite demo track.  This will really show you the difference between good and poor woofers.  The individual bass notes Tony Levin plays sound like a low rumble that just changes pitch with poor woofers.  With a good woofer you can clearly hear every note individually.

John
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 5 Feb 2009, 01:15 am
Ok time for another really good demo CD:

Linda Ronstadt with Nelson Riddle and his Orchestra.....

The compilation is "Round Midnight".....

32 Nelson Riddle goodies,exceptional..

Round Midnight is at the end of cd #2..

Turn off the lights and Linda Rondstadt will magically appear on a stool singing this
very sultry song....

Its that good.

Good Listening!

Alex



Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: TJC712 on 5 Feb 2009, 02:54 pm

Bozzio, Levin, Stevens - "Duende" (Black Light Syndrome)


My favorite demo track.  This will really show you the difference between good and poor woofers.  The individual bass notes Tony Levin plays sound like a low rumble that just changes pitch with poor woofers.  With a good woofer you can clearly hear every note individually.

John
Ok time for another really good demo CD:

Linda Ronstadt with Nelson Riddle and his Orchestra.....

The compilation is "Round Midnight".....

32 Nelson Riddle goodies,exceptional..

Round Midnight is at the end of cd #2..

Turn off the lights and Linda Rondstadt will magically appear on a stool singing this
very sultry song....

Its that good.

Good Listening!

Alex






John... I went ahead and downloaded Duende.  Your post intrigued me (I've always liked Levin's work with Peter Gabriel).  You are right on the money... good stuff!  Now onto the softer music side....

Alex... Loved the Riddle/Ronstadt marriage since it's inception almost 30 years ago. I've had this diverse taste in music going back to my youth days (I'll be 50 soon).  I remember being interested in that collaboration as soon as I read about it. Her vocals were built for it.  Anyway, based on this, you would probably like John Pizzarelli's "After Hours" CD.  While not an outstanding vocalist by any stretch, he's a great guitarist (great genes!), always uses great musicians, picks great tunes and really has become quite the "crooner" in his own style; always a good listen. 
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 15 Feb 2009, 06:45 pm
Hello,

I was just researching my Spyrogyra CD's and discovered that I was behind in the latest offerings they have put out in the last few years.

Spyro Gyra  MCA
1979  Morning Dance  MCA
1980  Carnaval  MCA
1980  Catching the Sun  Amherst
1981  Freetime  MCA
1982  Incognito  Amherst
1983  Access All Areas [live]  Amherst
1983  City Kids  Amherst
1985  Alternating Currents  Amherst
1986  Breakout  Amherst
1987  Stories Without Words  MCA
1988  Rites of Summer  MCA
1989  Point of View  MCA
1990  Fast Forward  GRP
1992  Three Wishes  GRP
1993  Dreams Beyond Control  GRP
1995  Love & Other Obsessions  GRP
1996  Heart of the Night  GRP
1997  20/20  GRP
1997  Road Scholars [live]  GRP
1999  Got the Magic  Windham Hill
2001  In Modern Times  Heads Up
2003  Original Cinema  Heads Up
2004  The Deep End  Heads Up
2006  Wrapped in a Dream  Heads Up International
2007  Good to Go-Go  Heads Up International
2008  A Night Before Christmas

I have seen these guys play three times live and a few practice sessions up close and personal..it was really great.

Anyone of these do you like more than the others? Do you consider any of them really good recordings, demo quality?

Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Big Red Machine on 15 Feb 2009, 06:54 pm
I am having trouble sending you a message for some reason.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 15 Feb 2009, 10:45 pm
Big Red Machine,

I got your PM, it came twice, and i just replied, but its taking a long time, it may be the server or just net congestion.

Thanks
Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 20 Feb 2009, 02:42 am
Well,

The new find for me today (the SongTowers have arrived!!) was Holly Cole's "It Happened One Night"

Tango 'Til They're Sore ------"WOW"

Calling You  ----- Another "WOW"

and yes the SongTowers really shine here.

A note on this recording (live) to me is Holly Cole seems to be mic'd in a more laid back fashion, not as forward sounding as some vocals that punch thru and are very forward sounding...meaning to me "easier to hear" or understand.

Even with this comment the album and these two tracks are really very nice to listen to..and oh how nice the bass is!!!

And surprise I never was a Holly Cole fan, but she is definitely growing on me and it the Calling You , this lady can really hold a note!!

Awesome!

Enjoy

Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 21 Feb 2009, 03:16 am
Ok...

Thanks to a fellow member I just listened to:

Manu Katche - Neighboorhood - November 99 --- Another WOW cut that the SongTowers excell at reproducing.
Diana Krall - Love Scenes - My Love Is --- The finger snapping in the beginning that moves around out of a pure silent background and the bass kicks in that is so tonally
correct it hurts....dang this is really, really good. Tonal accuracy, the harmonics and the sounds of the bass are just so dang nice.
Regina Spektor --- Begin to Hope ---Fidelity....another WOW

and finally

Quincy Coleman --- Want me back...

Thanks to Pete for the insight here...

These are really great demo material and it sounds good to me as well....

All the best
Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 24 Feb 2009, 01:01 am
Hello Out There!!!  :D

I was never an Enya type but I appreciate this type of etheral  music once in awhile....

Well I picked up a couple of my wifes favorite Ronan Hardiman's cds, he is the person that was the composer for Michael Flattery's Irish dance wonder "Lord of the Dance".

I always had a hard time sitting thru the cuts and only listened to the ones that I have heard on the local jazz station...and by-passed the rest...mainly becuase they didnt sound good to me, always a bit fuzzy and unclear...

WOW another real treat...as I listened to the first album "Anthem" I knew I was in for a real treat.....the music was clear, distict, and just plain wonderful.....

This was also the experience with the second album 'Solas"

Lots of synths and bass lines....you may not like the style or tone, but the bottom line here to me its a wonderful different sound that play so, so well on my SongTowers..
When all the sounds. vocals and instrumentals kick in and its cranked up its a wonder!!! Yahoo!!


And beside, Jim told me to play some nice music for my wife!!!

I did!!

All the best
Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 24 Feb 2009, 03:26 pm
I'm sure there's a couple people around here tired of hearing me talk about this recording,  :oops:
but..... for the rest of you:

The XRCD of Count Basie "88 Basie Street"
Specifically tracks: Sunday at the Savoy and Bluesville
Very clean, very clear, and the dynamics are like WOW!!!  :o

Super, intergalactically, monsterously, highly recommended.  aa

Bob
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 24 Feb 2009, 07:19 pm
Bob,

Can you shoot me a link to where this can be purchased? A PM is fine, dont know if we are supposed to put these links in post??

and Thanks for the reference!!!

A lot of us that have been doing this still like having people post their favorites!!

Alex

 :D
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 24 Feb 2009, 07:33 pm
Not sure where you live, but a quick Google search yeilded these:

In Germany:  THIS ONE (http://www.hifihenkes.de/MUSIK/xrcd.html) (Look for #0021)

Not sure where these folks are (Netherlands??) But, HERE'S ANOTHER (http://www.highfidelitydiscs.nl/customer/product.php?productid=19002&cat=335&page=1)

And the extra super bonus, In the U.S., THIS PLACE (http://www.elusivedisc.com/prodinfo.asp?number=JVCXR-0021) has streaming clips. Be sure to listen to #1 and #6, which interestingly enough are in a different order than what I've got.  :scratch: :dunno:

Hope that helps Alex,  :D
Bob
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Nuance on 24 Feb 2009, 11:46 pm
My demo disc for showing off dynamic range if I had someone to demo for, would be Kitaro-Cirque Ingenieux- New Age, electronic.
 It's also one of my favorite music albums, though I'm sure not very many people share my taste in music. Be careful with the volume control on this, the bass has a sonic boom like quality.
I am listening to it right now, as I have most of Kitaro's work, as well as most of Tangerine Dream's work.  Both are highly recommended. 

I'll also add Igor Stravinski's "The Rite Of Spring" to the current list.  That piece is just mind blowing! 

Finally, Joe Satriani's "Rubina" off the remastered "The Electric Joe Satriani: An Anthology" is one of the most beautiful things I've ever heard.  If you like guitar (acoustic and electric) listen to this song!  Just make sure it's the remastered version, as it sounds way better.

Edit: I should have clarified, the Joe Satriani Anthology IS remastered already.  Sorry for the confusion folks. 
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 25 Feb 2009, 01:33 am
Bob,

Many thanks!!

Nuance...I saw Satrini several years ago in a small movie theater, it was AWESOME and VERY VERY LOUD!!!

Dang it was loud....

Watching his long skinny spiderlike fingers on his guitar was absolutely amazing!!

I only have one of his cds, I dont think its that one, but i will check and get the one you mentioned ala remastered for sure!!

Thanks My friend...I have been having so much fun listening to these speakers they are very wonderful for what they are, and that is world class!!

Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 25 Feb 2009, 02:11 am
Alex, You're welcome!  :thumb:

Nuance, Thanks for the heads-up on Satriani.

Bob
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: cAsE sEnSiTiVe on 25 Feb 2009, 04:55 am
These below are the Creme de la Creme of my over 2000 album jazz collection...with a few other genre's thrown in.

Benny Goodman - 'Benny Goodman and Friends'
The Benny Green Trio - "Testifyin'" 'Live at the Village Vanguard'
Bill Berry - 'For Duke'
Bill Mays Trio - 'Live at the Jazz Standard'
Bob James - 'Dancing on the Water'
Carmen McRae - 'The Great American Songbook'
Clifford Jordan - 'Live at Ethell's'
The Count Basie Orchestra - 'Live at EL Morocco'
Diana Krall - 'The Girl in the Other Room'
Ella Fitzgerald - 'Clap Hands Here Comes Charlie'
Fred Hersch Trio - 'The Fred Hersch Trio Plays'
Hope Waits - 'Hope Waits'
James Carter - 'Chasin' The Gypsy'
Jane Monheit - 'Come Dream With Me'
Joshua Redman Quartet - 'Live at the Village Vanguard'
Kendra Shank - 'Afterglow'
Lyle Lovett - 'Joshua Judges Ruth'
Nils Lofgren - 'Acoustic Live'
Oscar Peterson - 'Live at the Blue Note'
Ray Brown/Laurindo Almeida - 'Moonlight Serenade'
The Ray Brown Trio - 'Live at Kuumbwa'
Rickie Lee Jones - 'Pop Pop'
Roy Gaines - 'I Got the T-Bone Walker Blues'
Victor Feldman - 'Audiophile'
Wynton Marsalis Septet - 'Live at the Village Vanguard'
Johnny Cash - 'American Recordings'
Linda Ronstadt & Nelson Riddle - 'What's New'


Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 25 Feb 2009, 01:45 pm
cAse!!

Thanks for the great list!!

There goes the budget again!

Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 25 Feb 2009, 07:06 pm
Ditto what the last fella said:

Hope Waits - 'Hope Waits'
Lyle Lovett - 'Joshua Judges Ruth' (there's about four songs that could qualify as "reference recordings")
Linda Ronstadt & Nelson Riddle
Wynton Marsalis Septet
Nils Lofgren - 'Acoustic Live' (have not heard the entire release)
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 1 Mar 2009, 02:20 pm
I havent posted in a few days, because if work and listening for a change!!

Present Verdict: I sure wish I had boought these SongTowers earlier!!!!
 
lonewolf42ny has sent me a goodie package and I have been listening to lots of stuff that I have never heard of and have been very much surprised.
I have secveral of the SALK test cd's and the NY Audio RAVE disks and WOW what a really great sampling of many great recordings and artists.

From Pink Panther to orchestral selections! Magnificiant.

I am beginning to think that the RAVE group have been having way to much fun !!!!!   :beer:

If I were closer to NY ( being an old resident of UTICA, NY) I would find a way to weasel in for sure!!

Audio,beer, friends with like intrests!! what a combination!

I have purchased a bunch of the suggestions from many of your posts and will comment on them in the near future...

Ok for now, need some coffee and listen a bit!!

All the best
Alex




Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 5 Mar 2009, 01:12 am
Well,

Another really great listening session!!

Nuance recommended Joe Satriani's Anthology Remastered, well I just finished listening to the second cd in the package and  yes I was BLOWN away once again!

Satriani is got to be one of the all time best ever guitar players...even if you dont like rock music, his talent on a guitar is just downright amazing.

The recording is not to bad, and many of the cuts have lots of stuff going on in them and many of them are rather slow and very graceful in presentation.

Rubina was really nice!! I got to here this is person a long time ago!

You may want to grad this 2 cd set, its a great representation of what Satriani has done!


The second listen tonight was the GRP Spyrogyra Collection CD. I like Spyrogyra, I think I was close to being a 'groupie' in my younger days, at least buying all their cd's and material  :D.  Most of their major familiar hits are here from a several year period. The redording is decent and the vibes on many tracks are wonderful. The boys ure could play as a group and make you move!!

Syprogyra has many cds out ( I listed them earlier in the post) and this is a great way to listen to their most popular material well recorded.

All the best
Alex



Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: ted_b on 5 Mar 2009, 01:57 am

Lyle Lovett - 'Joshua Judges Ruth' (there's about four songs that could qualify as "reference recordings")


Although somewhat off topic, JJR is a tremendous surround disc, too, even though it's in "lowly" DTS.  It was one of my first 5.1 purchases years ago, and continues to be one of the best.  The sonics, subtleties and wit come through very nicely in 5.1.  They must have used a first generation master because the details are really something special.

OK, back on topic.  Cassandra Wilson's Blue Note catalog (esp Rendezvous and New Moon Daughter) are tremendous recordings, sonically and musically.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Brucemck on 6 Mar 2009, 12:36 am

"My Dark Angel" on Blue Rodeo's Five Days in July.

"One" by Aimee Mann on the Magnolia soundtrack.

These are two of the most revealing recordings out there.

Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: zybar on 6 Mar 2009, 01:03 am

"My Dark Angel" on Blue Rodeo's Five Days in July.

"One" by Aimee Mann on the Magnolia soundtrack.

These are two of the most revealing recordings out there.



BINGO!!

Both are part of my test songs.

On a good system, "My Dark Angel" on Blue Rodeo's Five Days in July will send shivers down my spine and make me feel like Sarah is singing to me personally.

George
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: zybar on 6 Mar 2009, 01:34 am
Here are a few more of my test tracks:

"Carnival" and "The Letter" from Natalie Merchant's Tigerlily
"One Trick Pony" from Holly Cole's Romantically Helpless
"The Battle" from the Gladiator Soundtrack
"Stimela" by Hugh Masekela on the Burmester Reference III CD
"Spanish Harlem from Rebecca Pidgeon's The Raven (24/96 version)
"Sunken Treasure" from Wilco's Being There
"Keep the Bugs Off Your Glass, and the Bears Off Your Ass" from the Bad Plus' These Are The Vistas
"Kid Charlemagne" from Steely Dan's The Royal Scam
"Cat Turned Blue" and "Laugh As The Sun" from Rusted Root's When I Woke
"Black Coffee" from Peggy Lee's Black Coffee
"Gold to Me" and "God Fearing Man" from Ben Harper's Fight For Your Mind
"Crush" from Dave Matthews Band's Before These Crowded Streets
"Isn't It A Little Late?" from Elanor McEvoy's Yola
"Domino" from Roland Kirk's Domino (remastered)
"Angel" from Sarah McLachlan's Surfacing

George
 
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 6 Mar 2009, 02:08 am
Hey Guys!!

Thanks so much for posting, I am excited to try this new material...I am constantly suprised at the material I have had the pleasure of 'discovering' over the past few months. Many of the posters have shared some of the best out there and each and everytime I go listen on my SongTowers I always walk away saying it just cant get any better.

I have just got the JJR cd, havent listened yet...and I do have a few DTS 5.1 recordings, I have both the Diana Krall disc in normal 2 ch cd and in 5.1 DTS and have compared both...they both sound great....the 5.1 DTS one is really good...the soundstage on this is more 3 dimensional and the center channel is not mic'd very high (which is good) it sounds very much like a 2 ch cd with a "deeper' soundstage...

I am going to get the My Dark Angel and One  ASAP!!

Are these on any particular cd issue??  remastered or xrcd etc or just the normal distribution?

All the best

Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: rodge827 on 6 Mar 2009, 03:01 am
Gents,

Many of the choices you have I use also, here are a few others that are demo worthy:

1) Dave Grusin - "Homage To Duke"
2) Tommy Emmanuel - "Center Stage"
3) Ray Brown- "Walk On"

Enjoy,

Chris

Disclaimer- I'm not a Salk owner, but just thought that these discs are worth a listen on any system.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 6 Mar 2009, 01:47 pm
rodge827,

Thanks for the new references.....you dont have to own Salks to appreciate good music, material , recordings etc....

Thanks again and have a great day!!

Alex


PS:

I just got done listening to the RAVE 2008 reference tracks disc and once again I had the 'ususal' ethereal experience with many of the tracks on this disc...

And for those that really like and search for really great recorded material to test you speakers:

1. Stravinsky Firebird Suite Eiji Oue Minnesota Orch...the SongTowers make listening to classical music a JOY.

2. Your Joy - Chrisette Michele --- WOW what an awesome recording of someone I have never heard of..the presentation is like she is there in the middle of the soundstage ..like the speakers are GONE....absolutely stunning!!

3. Mars - Dean Peter...what a wonderful surprise..so full on all kinds os esoteric sounds...from very low amplitude to WHAMO....this will make you smile for sure..

4. Surf's Up! Brian Wilson,,,Holy Crap This kind of simple music never sounded so great.....just another WOW...

5. Bizet - Carmon Fantasie Anne-Sophie-Mutter, Vienner Phil - James Levine
I never really liked classiscal music and now I have realized I have missed out on alot....and look forward to listening a lot more...oh did I also say its really sound great on the SongTowers!

6. La Grange....dang its GOOD..

Many thanks to lonewolf42 for oepening my eyes up to lots of new stuff!!

What a great combo....great material and great speakers and so little time!!

Hope some of you look into some of those cited tracks...and enjoy!!

All the best
Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 14 Mar 2009, 01:55 pm
Surfacing by Sarah McLachlan ....

Very, Very nice...very open and real...lots of reverb etc.

Also just listened to Sails by Chet Atkins....a really mellow, but tight nylon stringed guitar set of tracks that really have some
very nice kick drums in many of the tracks....this disc is a good demo and will explore the great overall response the
Song Towers are capable of.

Skylark by Rene Olstead, this young lady sings some of the past greats....all of the tracks are superb but listen to the last one
called "nothing but the blame"...

Roberta Flack's Quiet and Fire...the "Bridge Over Troubled Water", " Sunday and Sister Jones", and "Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow" are
excellent ..this is an older 1971 dated material , but is is redone well, its not as forward as modern recordings, but plays softly but the SongTowers bring out all the nuances for sure....really wonderful!! Thils lady has longs that go all the way down to the tips of her toenails!! :D

All the best
Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Gord_Toronto on 19 Mar 2009, 11:02 pm
Alex

I picked up Jennifer Warnes - "Famous Blue Raincoat the songs of Leonard Cohen" yesterday.  It caught my eye because she's on Jim's Demo CD.  This is a 20th Anniversary Edition issued in 2007 with 4 bonus tracks.  One of the bonus tracks, #13 a live version of "Joan of Arc" will take your breath away.  The entire album is superb.  I had to play it again this AM before work and will again once more tonight.  In fact I can hear her calling to me now.  What's that you say Jen', you want go for a spin now...

Also, on your recommendation I spun Surfacing by Sarah McLachlan.  I found both it and the Jennifer Warnes at the Library yesterday.  Its been years since I last listened to Sarah.  As you say "Very, Very nice".  A great deal of feeling and warmth in interpretation

Gord

Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 19 Mar 2009, 11:36 pm
Hey Gord!!

Yes its nice for sure....

Have you heard of Amanda McBroom, she wrote "The Rose" that Bette Midler made famous. She has a few tracks on the GRP label with Licoln Mayorga, she has a real nice voce as well.
You can sample some of these on www.allmusic.com

I have several Jennifer Warnes cds, Famous Blue Raincoat and The Hunter. She has a real nice voice.

Linda Rondstadt singing 'Round Midnight' is what I call 'sultry' for sure!  :D

Make sure you have your seatbelt on your listening seat when you listen to Jen again!!!   aa

All the best
Alex

UPDATE:

Preston Reed's "Instrument Landing" a DDD CD. this acoustic guitarist has what is called an 'orchestral' style of guitar playing.....really amazing...all instrumental really is amazing that this is ONE guitar making all this music...


Update 2: Gord, I listened to Famous Blue Raincoat, then listened to The Hunter....if you liked Blue Raincoat, then run, fly, race to your nearest audio store and BUY this NOW. Its close to a 10 out of a 10 for overall WONDERFULNESS, content, dynamic range, just really, really goooooood sound. The drums are to die for...the soundstage is awesome. This has the cut Jim has on his demo CD as well, once you get past that its just keeps getting  better and better.....be careful on several of the cuts the bass plucking will make you jump in AWE at what your Songs will do....I cant tell you how impressed of this artist and the recording and the ability of these speakers to reproduce all that it there...oh did I mention to go get this now!!  aa
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Gord_Toronto on 22 Mar 2009, 02:35 pm
I'll be sure to pick up copies of 'The Hunter' &  'Round Midnight' soon.

In the mean time I've found my new love in Eva Cassidy's 'Time After Time'.  It came out posthumously in 2000.  I picked up her 'Live at Blues Alley' a couple of weeks ago that I liked and need to listen to again, (which am doing now). 

Saw 'Time After Time' and thought I would give it a try.  The delivery and performance just pull you right in.  The ST's shine and there is nothing more that you could want.  I just want to hear it over and over again, but am restraining myself.  Highly recommend Time After Time as a must have

Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: rahimlee54 on 22 Mar 2009, 02:41 pm
I'll be sure to pick up copies of 'The Hunter' &  'Round Midnight' soon.

In the mean time I've found my new love in Eva Cassidy's 'Time After Time'.  It came out posthumously in 2000.  I picked up her 'Live at Blues Alley' a couple of weeks ago that I liked and need to listen to again, (which am doing now). 

Saw 'Time After Time' and thought I would give it a try.  The delivery and performance just pull you right in.  The ST's shine and there is nothing more that you could want.  I just want to hear it over and over again, but am restraining myself.  Highly recommend Time After Time as a must have



Good call on the Eva Cassidy, I took some when I auditioned the STs, and of course it sounded excellent.

Jared
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 22 Mar 2009, 02:57 pm
Gee Gord,

So you left ole 'Jennifer' by the side if the road for a new found love!!!  :lol:

Kool....

I will get the Eva Cassidy cd's and let you know how I like them!!

Jared,

Its getting CLOSER!!  8)

The HT2's look really nice on the HT2 post....

Alex


Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: S Clark on 22 Mar 2009, 04:18 pm
The amazing thing about Jennifer Warnes'  "The Hunter" is that the music is not just a reference recording, it would be one of my favorites even if the recording was lousy.  The music is just so listenable, I don't get tired of it. Personally, I think that it is vastly better than Famous Blue Raincoat.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 22 Mar 2009, 10:11 pm
The Hunter is very much a reference recording, but I never thought so until I listened to it via the Salk ST's. It truly is a joy to listen to  and your comments about it being so 'listenable' is right on...It has moved to my top 2 or 3 cds of all times.

Nuance would agree with your "if its a lousy recording" he still would love it for the sake of the material..the good news in The Hunter we have both stellar material and stellar recording!!

Alex
 aa

Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Art_Chicago on 23 Mar 2009, 01:20 am
Well, I own maybe 10-12 "demo Cd's", but speaking of female vocals, Madeleine Peyroux stands out allright! "Careless love" is probably one of the best recordered CD in my modest collection.  There are  3-4 catchy songs including Leonard Cohen's "Dance me to the end of love", which she takes to a completely different level. It is a close microphone recording, the instruments "look" huge, a piano takes a half of my family room. Just great jazzy-bluesy CD with incredibly sensitive female voice!

P.S. check it out http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SsK40HcxxsE&feature=related
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Russell Dawkins on 23 Mar 2009, 08:18 am
Yes, the piano is unnecessarily wide on the Madeleine Peyroux track, I would have placed it between centre and left to balance the guitar, but the sound is very pleasant and realistic at the same time on all the other instruments - easy to listen to. Nice sound on her voice. Nothing "hi-fi" about this, and that's always a relief.

Most importantly, good music!

Thanks for the link, Art.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Gord_Toronto on 24 Mar 2009, 01:22 am
I picked up a 3rd album by Eva Cassidy "Imagine".  Another stellar album.  It's a double bonus when I can find something soulful that my wife can get into as well.  Her rendition on Track # 5 of John Lennon's "Imagine" was so beautiful and touching that I had to restrain myself from tearing up.  And I had only had one glass of wine.

I can't believe that I spent this many years in the dark and without owning a pair of ST's.  I'm discovering so much that was previously hidden
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: S Clark on 24 Mar 2009, 01:44 am
I picked up a 3rd album by Eva Cassidy "Imagine".  Another stellar album.  It's a double bonus when I can find something soulful that my wife can get into as well.  Her rendition on Track # 5 of John Lennon's "Imagine" was so beautiful and touching that I had to restrain myself from tearing up.  And I had only had one glass of wine.
It's a good thing that you weren't working on your third glass or you would have been crying like a little girl. :bawl: :bawl: :bawl: :wink:
Every Eva album I have is excellent. What a style!
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: oneinthepipe on 24 Mar 2009, 01:57 am
It's a good thing that you weren't working on your third glass or you would have been crying like a little girl. :bawl: :bawl: :bawl: :wink:



No, no, you'll cry like a baby.  Even more than during the ending of the Mighty Ducks movie.

Eva Cassidy has the most beautiful voice.  I listen to a lot of female singer/songwriters and vocalists.  Alyssa Graham is a great singer, IMO.  Some others that I have been listening to recently are Allison Moorer (Shelby Lynne's sister), Shelby Lynne, Rachel Loshak, Dusty Springfield (not the best recordings on CD), Dionne Warwick (getting a good recording on CD is impossible), Vienna Teng, Leslie Feist, Erin Bode, Rachel Yamagata, and the brilliant Martha Wainwright.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 24 Mar 2009, 02:09 am
Another vote for Eva.
I'll just put her on "shuffle" and let fate decide the playlist, so as a result, I don't know which songs or albums are my favorites. In fact, I can't recall having to skip past any sings I didn't like.
As far as her being "Outstanding Demo CD" material, well, that one remains to be seen as there's better sound quality out there, but you'd be hard pressed to find a more beautiful voice.

It's a shame she left us at such a young age.  :cry:
My greed and selfishness is strongly showing through in that thought, but I want more from her and never will....

Bob
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 24 Mar 2009, 02:35 am
Ok you guys are killing me!! Another Amazon order!!

I will pick up Careless Love, Time After Time and Imagine.

Thanks so much for the wonderful choices....

Gord...glad your liking those SongTowers, they are truly wonderful!!!

Thanks to Bob, oneinthepipe, Russell, Art and to any I might have missed!!

Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Gord_Toronto on 25 Mar 2009, 12:56 am
It's a good thing that you weren't working on your third glass or you would have been crying like a little girl. :bawl: :bawl: :bawl: :wink:



No, no, you'll cry like a baby.  Even more than during the ending of the Mighty Ducks movie.

Eva Cassidy has the most beautiful voice.  I listen to a lot of female singer/songwriters and vocalists.  Alyssa Graham is a great singer, IMO.  Some others that I have been listening to recently are Allison Moorer (Shelby Lynne's sister), Shelby Lynne, Rachel Loshak, Dusty Springfield (not the best recordings on CD), Dionne Warwick (getting a good recording on CD is impossible), Vienna Teng, Leslie Feist, Erin Bode, Rachel Yamagata, and the brilliant Martha Wainwright.

I'm looking forward to seeing Dionne Warwick this Saturday at Casino Rama.  "Comp" tickets I got for signing up for Player Points while I was there to see George Thorogood a couple of weeks ago.  George did a great show for 2 sold out nights
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 27 Mar 2009, 01:48 am
Gord,

I just got the Imagine cd by Eva Cassidy and it is indeed wonderful!!

Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Gord_Toronto on 27 Mar 2009, 02:04 am
have been haunting several of our local libraries lately.  Thousands of CD's to go through in kind a random order.  I've always found flipping through albums to be very relaxing and I'm finding all kinds of stuff.

I just re read this tread so that I could get more ideas for when I'm there next.  Upon re reading it I've found that I coincidentally already picked up 2 that posters had listed and brought them home today.  Cowboy Junkies "Trinity Revisited" and Diana Krall " The Girl in the Room". 

Double bonus is I also picked up not only a 4th Eva Cassidy CD "Somewhere" and one of Jim's demo CD's Ray Charles "Genius Loves Company".  These last 2 I just listened to and of course Eva was delightful, Ray was brilliant

And now onto Diana

Thanks for starting this thread Alex.  So much music, so little time
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 27 Mar 2009, 02:29 am
 aa
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: bzaggie on 30 Mar 2009, 08:48 pm
I dont know if anyone else has seen this but a few nights ago Corinne Bailey Rae performed on Austin City Limits. Im glad I put it on the dvr because its an amazing performance and really shows off the ht2's, one of my new reference materials for sure.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: oneinthepipe on 30 Mar 2009, 09:44 pm
Corinne Bailey Rae is excellent.  If you like Corinne, you'd probably like Erin Bode's The Little Garden. 
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Gord_Toronto on 31 Mar 2009, 11:37 pm
Just picked up and been listening to;

Miles Davis  -  Kind of Blue

Can't believe the sound quality.  The ST-RT's reproduce the the horns, base and piano incredibly well.  Originally recorded in 1959 this particular CD was remastered in 1997 and the blurb states that they corrected a pitch problem that was on the original LP.  If recording quality was this good back in '59 what happened after that.  Was there a lost art for a couple of decades

Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Russell Dawkins on 1 Apr 2009, 12:17 am
Just picked up and been listening to;

Miles Davis  -  Kind of Blue

Can't believe the sound quality.  The ST-RT's reproduce the the horns, base and piano incredibly well.  Originally recorded in 1959 this particular CD was remastered in 1997 and the blurb states that they corrected a pitch problem that was on the original LP.  If recording quality was this good back in '59 what happened after that.  Was there a lost art for a couple of decades



Some would say there was - and some would say we still haven't fully found our way back, in terms of engineering practice.

Some of the engineers working in the 50s were really very good. They had to be in part because of what they were required to do as a matter of routine, like mix a complete orchestra's worth of spot mics and main mic on the fly so the result could go straight to a stereo recorder. That's all there was in general use until about 1960 when 3 and 4 tracks became popular. In the late 60s, 16 tracks became common in US studios and we entered the era of "fixing it in the mix" from about 1970 to present, where mixing decisions can be deferred until "later" when it gets mixed.

It is possible to imagine how the work of an inspired and talented engineer in mixing something on the fly, including large scale levels adjustments on the master fader to accommodate gross differences in level through the course of a long symphony or jazz piece would have a certain integrity of sound that is the result of a single inspired performance not only by the musician(s) but the engineer.

I have been blown away by the quality of the studio work for what amounted to popular music in the early 50s, like Santa Baby by Eartha Kit: http://tinyurl.com/cb7cos
from 1953 or so.

Some Elvis Presley and Buddy Holly work is extremely well recorded, I am told, if you can hear an early master before the "echo" (which Presley hated) was added. I have heard some spectacular old Presley - pretty amazing performances from him, too.

Circumstances of the times worked in favor of good finished sound, like the absence of transistors pretty well anywhere in the equipment chain, the absence of exotic signal processing like multi-band parametric EQs and multi-band compression (both done in the digital domain), and the absence of multi track recording, and the limits imposed by analog tape on the number of ovedubs possible, Les Paul aside.

The enforced simplicity helped keep the sound listenable.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 2 Apr 2009, 08:14 pm
Russell,

When I listened to the Cowboy Junkies Trinty Sessions , I think it was done with one Caltrec Mic and Ambisonic recording (what ever that is) I thought the same thoughts...

Way back when with so little technology and the sound is wonderful...

The acoustics of the church that this session took place in and the way it was done is today still a reference recording...

This is one of the reason I started this thread..looking for those really neat demo level recordings no matter how back in time they were made..

Thanks for you input!!

Alex
 :D
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Russell Dawkins on 2 Apr 2009, 09:04 pm
The Trinity Sessions recordings were done with a two channel "R-DAT" (an early name for what became simply DAT, as "S-DAT" fizzled shortly after conception) Rotary head Digital Audio Tape, versus Stationary head,  the very short-lived Philips format intended to compete with Sony MiniDisc and called DCC.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Digital_Compact_Cassette

Since it was a two track recorder, the signal from the 4-element Calrec Soundfield Mark I microphone used had to pass through the decoder box to emerge as two channel stereo, the pattern being set by the decoder unit. If memory serves, it was Blumlein, or some close variant which was used. I did a quick search but could not come up with the information just now.

If it was Blumlein it would be easy in remastering to come up with a 5.1 surround mix, since the difference between the left and right signals can easily be extracted and can be sent to the rear channels. The "difference signal" consists entirely of ambiance coming into the mic from the left and right quadrants.

Re-mastering options are irrelevant now that a new recording has been done at the same venue.

Anyway, the point of this is that though the Calrec was capable of Ambisonic recording if recorded on 4 tracks, it was used here essentially as a stereo mic, but its use did permit the use of the word Ambisonic in the promotional copy and sounded usefully exotic and audiophile-worthy.

In fact the quality about this recording that people like is attributable to coherent one point micing in a great sounding space and minimal signal manipulation, and has nothing whatsoever to do with the Ambisonic potential of the mic. There were better sounding mics around at the time, too. This is a textbook example of the value of keeping it simple.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Gord_Toronto on 2 Apr 2009, 11:11 pm
Its not just about keeping it simple.  However, keeping it simple forces you to have an exceptional quality person overseeing and engineering the recording.  Its the exceptional person that makes it happen in any profession.

Its refreshing when you run into someone who really knows their stuff and looks after all the attention and detail.  I find that the majority of people really just try to do the minimum to get by at their jobs or alternatively are working at the top of their game.  Recording Engineers are just like all other people only a few will actually make it happen.  The 80 - 20 rule I'm sure would apply here.

Great info and background Russell

Gord
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 3 Apr 2009, 10:38 pm
I guess it goes down to doing it right the first time, with all the technology if its not done right, it comes out less than it could have been....now and then...Gord you hit the nail right on the head.

I was listening to a complilation of Robeta Flacks greratest hits, and heard all that old analog hiss from the obviously old analog tapes but more so what I noticed was that some of the recordings on this "best of disc" were great in soound, balance, and micing, others were absolutley terrible,,great material but absolutely gargbage in the recording, mixing stage...its so sad...

Yes like Nuance I love the music for what it is, but when you 'murder' the artist and or their material with crappy techinques etc ...its really bad....

This is why we again started this thread and look for the best of the best..and thank goodness there is a good amount of well recorded, mixed, and produced material of a wide variety for us to enjoy on our Salk's and yes even other speaker brands!!

All the best..
I have the new Diana Krall CD to listen to tonight!!

Give you a review of it later!!

Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Russell Dawkins on 3 Apr 2009, 10:48 pm
... for us to enjoy on our Salk's and yes even other speaker brands!!
Alex
There are other speaker brands?? :scratch:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: rahimlee54 on 3 Apr 2009, 10:52 pm
... for us to enjoy on our Salk's and yes even other speaker brands!!
Alex
There are other speaker brands?? :scratch:

You could always check out Cerwin Vega like 3 coworkers told me I should have done in the last month.  I told them I was getting Salks and they were like what is that?  I told them it was Bose +2  :thumb:.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 3 Apr 2009, 11:05 pm
oh golly gee i am in trouble now!! aa

Hey Jared, are we getting close now???

What did u decide on an amp??

Ok later going to listen to Quiet Nights by D. Krall....oh boy, oh boy, oh boy!!!

 :lol:

Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 7 Apr 2009, 02:59 pm
Ok,

Diana Krall...'Quiet Nights".....well I like D. Krall for sure...but this cd for me is a bit of a disapointment.

I kept listening but something was missing...and then after several songs....I said " Where is the piano????"

This disc accentuates her voice more than the ususal wonderful piano playing.....

Its amazing on how used to hearing a particular artist, you start expecting a certain level of 'experience' and when it deviates it
is quite noticeable.

Be curious if any one else out there has played this disc yet?

All the best
Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: rodge827 on 7 Apr 2009, 08:03 pm
Ok,

Diana Krall...'Quiet Nights".....well I like D. Krall for sure...but this cd for me is a bit of a disapointment.

I kept listening but something was missing...and then after several songs....I said " Where is the piano????"

This disc accentuates her voice more than the ususal wonderful piano playing.....

Its amazing on how used to hearing a particular artist, you start expecting a certain level of 'experience' and when it deviates it
is quite noticeable.

Be curious if any one else out there has played this disc yet?

All the best
Alex

I felt the same way. I've listened to it a number of times through and had to work real hard at staying awake. :sleep:

All that talent and this is what we get to spend our cash and time on?  :dunno:

It seams as though Verve is trying to sell an "image" and not an artist. Kind of reminded me of the Britney Spears approach to recording. All show and no substance. :thumbdown:

Rodge
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: charmerci on 7 Apr 2009, 08:52 pm
Eh, you can't expect good artists to always put out great albums - they've all made bleah albums.

Anyway, it used to be that the music industry created an image for the artists. Today, they mold the artists to fit an image.

Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: satfrat on 7 Apr 2009, 09:11 pm
Ok,

Diana Krall...'Quiet Nights".....well I like D. Krall for sure...but this cd for me is a bit of a disappointment.

I kept listening but something was missing...and then after several songs....I said " Where is the piano????"

This disc accentuates her voice more than the usual wonderful piano playing.....

Its amazing on how used to hearing a particular artist, you start expecting a certain level of 'experience' and when it deviates it
is quite noticeable.

Be curious if any one else out there has played this disc yet?

All the best
Alex

I've spun this album a few time since downloading it last week and I like this recording. I think this album's main purpose is to highlite vocal ballets from Diana more than simply relying on her piano background. Seeing how I love her voice, I can easily live w/o the piano. I have plenty of her prior albums for that anyways so this is a nice change for her imho. "Quiet Nights" will be seeing plenty of playing time in the foreseeable future. :D

Cheers,
Robin
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: mcgsxr on 7 Apr 2009, 10:26 pm
I am a fan of hers, but not overall a large fan of piano music, so it sounds like I might really like this one from her!
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: bahorn1 on 8 Apr 2009, 03:43 am
Stop it!  You guys are costing me money. :D  I just got a number of CDs from Amazon over the past week because of their mention here.

Jennifer Warnes - Famous Blue Raincoat
Sarah McLachlan - Surfacing
Eva Cassidy - Songbird
Vienna Teng - Waking Hour
Diana Krall - Quiet Nights
Chris Tomlin - Hello Love (This CD wasn't mentioned in this thread but I like him)

My favorite so far is Waking Hour.  I've known about Vienna Teng for years but have never really listened to her.  Now I'm going to buy her other 3 CDs.  Thanks to someone who mentioned Waking Hour on this thread.

Quiet Nights - I like Diana Krall.  But it is weird that she isn't playing piano.  Nevertheless, I still like this CD.

Of course, they all sound great on my SongTowers.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: oneinthepipe on 8 Apr 2009, 04:02 am
I mentioned Vienna Teng.  Maybe someone else also mentioned her.  She released a new CD yesterday. 
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: satfrat on 8 Apr 2009, 05:27 am
I mentioned Vienna Teng.  Maybe someone else also mentioned her.  She released a new CD yesterday. 

That would be Inland Territory (http://www.amazon.com/Inland Territory/dp/B001W4LCOQ/ref=dm_cd_album_lnk?ie=UTF8&qid=1239168471&sr=1-1) incase anyone's interested. :thumb:

Cheers,
Robin
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: bahorn1 on 8 Apr 2009, 06:28 am
I mentioned Vienna Teng.  Maybe someone else also mentioned her.  She released a new CD yesterday. 

That would be Inland Territory (http://www.amazon.com/Inland Territory/dp/B001W4LCOQ/ref=dm_cd_album_lnk?ie=UTF8&qid=1239168471&sr=1-1) incase anyone's interested. :thumb:

Cheers,
Robin

That's one of her 3 CDs I just ordered from Amazon!

OITP, I hope you were listening to your new speakers while you wrote your last post.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Rocket on 8 Apr 2009, 09:07 am
Hi,

Don't mean to offend but I bought Jennifer Warnes 'Famous Blue Raincoat' and whilst the songs were great it wasn't a great recording.  It was the 20th anniversary version.

Regards

Rod
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 8 Apr 2009, 12:29 pm
I much prefer the Jennifer Warnes, The Hunter over the Famous Blue Raincoat for recording quality. But still like the songs and material.

When you get an artrist you really like, on a well recorded, well produduced cd its magic...

The interesting thing is I have ALL the Krall stuff, including the DVD shows, concerts etc...and I generally like her singing, expertise, material  and piano playing....its a total package that has worked so well.

Its just when someone deviates from the norm, its like what happened or why??

Its not bad, but for an avid fan, to notice at first that something is different, was interesting....to me it sounded flat, voice ok, but where was that 'total' Krall sound???

I would NOT recommend this to a person who hasnt heard her for the first cd etc....

It kind of also reminds me of the old Beatles stuff i grew up with, each and new album was different and there were lots of 'us' that at first didnt like that, we wanted the Beatles to just keep on blatting out those simple happy tunes...

But no, they had to do Sgt Peppers, and all the rest.... :D

So maybe the D Krall missing piano isnt that 'big of a deal' anyhow in the scheme of things... :duh:

Glad to see the recent activity, I was wondering if anyone was stil reading the posts!!

Now back to playing with the new Oppo BD 83 toy!

All the best
Alex








Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 8 Apr 2009, 01:37 pm
I was wondering if anyone was stil reading the posts!!
Absolutely Alex!
Some of us are waiting for your wallet to recover before we hit you with another volley.  :icon_twisted: aa

Bob
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: fishinbob on 8 Apr 2009, 03:48 pm
Good thread. Been following for some time and decided to nominate my "demo" female vocalist. At least I think that is where we are as this thread is sounding more like a fan club, rather than a favorite demo cut kind of thing at times, so here goes.
Anything by Alison Krauss. This girl does it for me. The first time I heard her sing I knew I wanted more. I first bought the "live" double album and must say that it is among the best live recordings I have.
Since buying the SongTowers my collection of vocal recordings is growing rapidly.Wonder why? Ms Krauss vocal style could be described as pure ... clear and certainly very refreshing for me. I abhore all the vocal exercising most of the pop artists call singing these days. Must be getting old... but I'd rather hear somebody gargle.
The first time I heard the studio version of her "New Favorite"cut on the album of the same name, I got the chills. Pehaps not a demo cut but very nice. Most of the AKUS dics are high caliber recording sonically and the performances very polished and musical. Union Station's got that old timey sound that's kind of growing on me too. The "fiddle" (Ms Krauss) and especially the dobro guitar sound excellent to my old ears.

In somewhat classical vein I can recommend one of my latest purchases called Incidental Music to Shakespeare's Tempest. Music composed by Sir Arthur Sullivan (Gilbert and....) and Jean Sibelius on Reference Recordings no less. This disc would be a good intro to the full orchestra sound for those who shy away from the classical music section. Sullivans pieces are very easy to listen to and might work for those who find most  'classical music' stuffy. But hold on...... the Sibelius ...... incredible, even with my humble equipment. I thought the Salks might explode. I can't imagine how this hi rez disc would sound with a better system. It is comprised of several cuts allowing use of the index rather than having to fast forward to get to the part, like so many classical recordings, so this will remain in the show off pile for some time.
Happy listening folks :D

Bob
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 9 Apr 2009, 12:43 am
fishinbob,

Hello!!

Flash...I dont have a single Alison Krauss cd?????????

Ok so you say anything of her's is ok...so what is you favorite etc...

Yes, I would like to obtain one to try, but as Bob in St Louis said I want to curb my Amazon activity!! :D

And yes the thread has taken off into a 'my favorite' female vocalist area, which is fine, as long as its a really great recording...

We still are looking for those demo cd's that are very well done regardless of artist...and golly gee I have learned so much since getting the
SongTowers....and I thought I knew everything about musice   :duh:

So keep those suggestions coming in about your favorote DEMO cd etc...

All the best
Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: fishinbob on 9 Apr 2009, 01:11 am

adydula-
I would recommend "Alison Krauss + Union Station Live". Its a 2 disc set and has many of their better tunes including 'I am a man of constant sorrow' from the O' Brother Where Art Thou film. Very fun to listen to and well recorded. This is my first foray into bluegrass and with the SongTowers I'm diggin it.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: rodge827 on 9 Apr 2009, 01:22 am


adydula-
I would recommend "Alison Krauss + Union Station Live". Its a 2 disc set and has many of their better tunes including 'I am a man' from the O' Brother Where Art Thou film. Very fun to listen to and well recorded. This is my first foray into bluegrass and with the SongTowers I'm diggin it.

+1  Alison Krauss + Union Station Live

A Great Recording :thumb:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 9 Apr 2009, 02:06 pm
Is this Live 2 disc set SACD??

Answering my own question, there is a SACD version and a normal 2 ch version...!!

THe SACD version is $134 !! Guess I wll get the good ole 2ch version!!  :roll:

Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: martyo on 9 Apr 2009, 02:19 pm
Quote


adydula-
I would recommend "Alison Krauss + Union Station Live". Its a 2 disc set and has many of their better tunes including 'I am a man' from the O' Brother Where Art Thou film. Very fun to listen to and well recorded. This is my first foray into bluegrass and with the SongTowers I'm diggin it.

I have both the DVD and the Redbook Cd. I recommend the DVD if you do DVD in 2 channel, it's even better. (I started a thread about that; DVD better than Cd, but no one responded.)
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: fishinbob on 9 Apr 2009, 02:37 pm
Quote

I have both the DVD and the Redbook Cd. I recommend the DVD if you do DVD in 2 channel, it's even better. (I started a thread about that; DVD better than Cd, but no one responded.)

DVD -A?  If so I don't have that capability .............yet :lol:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 9 Apr 2009, 02:44 pm
Marty..

Thanks for the information. I normally would only get the redbook version just from a purist standpoint, but agree that when the 5.1 stuff is done well its a real treat as well...especially when you get the video accompaniment.

What is amazing is how well a really good redbook played on the SongTowers is and how it comes so close to being 3 dimensional even though its a 2 ch recording...

Thanks again!!

Now off to Amazon land!!

Alex
 aa

Bob...I think he is referring to the DVD 2 disc set which has 5.1 and a english 2 ch stream, but the dvd does not have the 2 encore tracks from what i am reading on Amazon...
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: martyo on 9 Apr 2009, 03:12 pm
Marty..

Thanks for the information. I normally would only get the redbook version just from a purist standpoint, but agree that when the 5.1 stuff is done well its a real treat as well...especially when you get the video accompaniment.

What is amazing is how well a really good redbook played on the SongTowers is and how it comes so close to being 3 dimensional even though its a 2 ch recording...

Thanks again!!

Now off to Amazon land!!

Alex
 aa

Bob...I think he is referring to the DVD 2 disc set which has 5.1 and a english 2 ch stream, but the dvd does not have the 2 encore tracks from what i am reading on Amazon...

Yes, I only listen to the 2-channel output.  8)
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: fishinbob on 9 Apr 2009, 03:24 pm


Bob...I think he is referring to the DVD 2 disc set which has 5.1 and a english 2 ch stream, but the dvd does not have the 2 encore tracks from what i am reading on Amazon...

Might check that one out, cause I can sure do that, though I'm getting on the better half for buying DVD  :nono: when we have BluRay.  :lol:

You'll do fine with the redbook should you choose.

PS: Checked it out ...probably will wind up in my cart ....$$$$$$ :lol:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 9 Apr 2009, 03:49 pm
I ordered the DVD version...done deal...oh well!

Blu Ray is fine but many of these good dvd's will never be remade in Blu Ray or you might wait a long time for them...its the cost/ profit / demand model.  :)

This one of the reasons I got the new OPPO BD 83 so the upscale to 1080p would be as good as it gets etc...

Later
Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: OgOgilby on 9 Apr 2009, 06:49 pm
I have the DVD version and the DTS audio is pretty good  :D
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: bahorn1 on 10 Apr 2009, 02:05 am
Before I got my SongTowers, I mostly listened to 80's music.  But since getting my SongTowers, I've expanded my listening tastes, including those CDs that have more focus on quality vocals or seem to be quality recordings.  So I appreciate the recommendations made in this thread.

My CD recommendations, for demoing the STs, that I don't believe have been listed in this thread yet are:

Natalie Merchant - Tiger Lily (I think someone listed a track from this CD already)
Josh Groban - Closer
Chris Isaak - The Best of Chris Isaak

Alex: Congrats on getting an Oppo 83.  I signed up a couple of months ago but didn't get picked for either the first or second round of the EAP.  And I only live 10 minutes away from Oppo.  Obviously, vicinity was not a factor.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 10 Apr 2009, 04:38 pm
bahorn1:

Hello,

Nice meeting you.

The SongTowers really do well with the vocals for sure!!

I will look at the Tiger Lily cd and Chris Issak....good suggestions.

I watched a biography sd dvd last night on Joni Mitchell and was blown away at the entire dvd and music, its not reference or demo level but the Oppo, the songs and the material, i guess the 'total' package thing made this a very enjoyable event to me!

Jim many times has told me that its the overall 'where you blown' away thing that he has strived for in the design of his speakers.

Your really clost to Oppo!! I hope this thing goes retail soon, its really ready from my viewpoint....some minor stuff but its solid.

All the best
Alex

Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Gord_Toronto on 11 Apr 2009, 02:55 am
Well, they weren't showing up in any of my searches at the library and I couldn't wait any more.  Just made my 1st purchase from Amazon and looking forward to receiving:

Jennifer Warnes - "Hunter"

Madeleine Peyroux - "Careless Love"

Nils Lofgren - "Acoustic Live"

Jackson Browne - "Solo Acoustic, Vol. 1 & 2"

Jackson Browne - "Late for the Sky"

There goes the budget
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: rahimlee54 on 11 Apr 2009, 03:25 am
There was a budget?
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: grenamc on 11 Apr 2009, 03:54 am
I am personally a bit on the fence about the Madeline Peyroux CD.  I think that it suffers from the compression obsession in today's recording industry, which is too bad as it has some excellent covers of great music.  And her voice is brilliant.  Let us know how it sounds on your Salks.

-Michael
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 11 Apr 2009, 01:15 pm
grenmac,

Yes the Madeline Peyroux does not sound as open and unrestrained as I wish it were..


Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: fishinbob on 11 Apr 2009, 01:48 pm
I am personally a bit on the fence about the Madeline Peyroux CD.  I think that it suffers from the compression obsession in today's recording industry, which is too bad as it has some excellent covers of great music.  And her voice is brilliant.  Let us know how it sounds on your Salks.

-Michael
grenmac,

Yes the Madeline Peyroux does not sound as open and unrestrained as I wish it were..


Alex

I checked her out on Amazon and noticed it, even when listening to the clips on my BOSE desktop speakers.  :oops:





Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: fishinbob on 11 Apr 2009, 03:14 pm
Speaking of cover albums, I must confess, one of my favorites to demo with my old JBL's was Papa Doo Run Run/California Project. 
They out Beachboy the Beach Boys. Incredibly slick and powerful, (on Telarc) and perfect for blasting in the big room with those old big boy JBL's. Unfortunately it was stolen from my truck along with a 12 disc changer and hasn't been replaced.......hmmm aa .......$$

Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: OgOgilby on 11 Apr 2009, 05:18 pm
One of my favorite test recordings is Loggins and Messina's "Mother Lode". Though there are a couple songs on the album that I don't care for, there are 4-5 songs that are very good for testing out speakers. "Be Free" and "Move On" are great. The CD has a nice mix of music and a high WAF, if your wife isn't into audio.

Amazon has it for $6.99 at the moment...

http://www.amazon.com/Mother-Lode-Loggins-Messina/dp/B0012GN2WO/ref=pd_lpo_k2_dp_k2a_1_img?pf_rd_p=304485601&pf_rd_s=lpo-top-stripe-2&pf_rd_t=201&pf_rd_i=B0000024ZG&pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_r=1GR6894YABVEMWJJ7BGD (http://www.amazon.com/Mother-Lode-Loggins-Messina/dp/B0012GN2WO/ref=pd_lpo_k2_dp_k2a_1_img?pf_rd_p=304485601&pf_rd_s=lpo-top-stripe-2&pf_rd_t=201&pf_rd_i=B0000024ZG&pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_r=1GR6894YABVEMWJJ7BGD)
Title: Re: Not Quite Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: oneinthepipe on 11 Apr 2009, 06:34 pm
Vienna Teng fans might also like the veteran, Mia Doi Todd.

BTW, Eryka Badu's Baduzium's Rim Shot played through my HT2-TL caused items to vibrate on my desk.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Art_Chicago on 11 Apr 2009, 10:24 pm
I am personally a bit on the fence about the Madeline Peyroux CD.  I think that it suffers from the compression obsession in today's recording industry, which is too bad as it has some excellent covers of great music.  And her voice is brilliant.  Let us know how it sounds on your Salks.

-Michael
grenmac,

Yes the Madeline Peyroux does not sound as open and unrestrained as I wish it were..


Alex

I checked her out on Amazon and noticed it, even when listening to the clips on my BOSE desktop speakers.  :oops:






This is quite intersting. First, fishinbob, I do not think streaming MP3 files is the way to asset the sound quality.
But anyway, can anyone describe for me what exactly a compressed sound is? Maybe I just do not hear it or something else. While I agree that Careless love is not as well recordered as the tracks from Salk's demo CD, I find it quite open. Her voice has some limitations, Jennifer Warnes has a stronger voice, for example, but to my great disappointment, recommended "Hunter" is a pop music for me, and I just cannot force myself to listen to it, even if it is an exellent record.  Back to Peyroux, the sound stage is large, the instruments sound natural and "in room" ... I am confused. Maybe , it is tube magic of my preamp? :D
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: oneinthepipe on 11 Apr 2009, 10:54 pm
But anyway, can anyone describe for me what exactly a compressed sound is?


From wikipedia:  http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dynamic_range_compression

"Dynamic range compression, also called DRC (often seen in DVD and car CD player settings) or simply compression, is a process that reduces the dynamic range of an audio signal. Compression is used during sound recording, live sound reinforcement, and broadcasting to control the level of audio."

"In simple terms, a compressor is an automatic volume control. Loud sounds over a certain threshold are reduced in level while quiet sounds remain untreated (this is known as downward compression, while the less common upward compression involves making sounds below the threshold louder while the louder passages remain unchanged). In this way it reduces the dynamic range of an audio signal. This may be done for aesthetic reasons, to deal with technical limitations of audio equipment, or to improve audibility of audio in noisy environments.

In a noisy environment, background noise can overpower quiet sounds (such as listening to a car stereo while driving). A comfortable listening level for loud sounds makes the quiet sounds inaudible below the noise; a comfortable listening level for quiet sounds makes the loud sounds too loud. Compression is used in order to make both the soft and loud parts of a sound more tolerable at the same volume setting."
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 11 Apr 2009, 11:03 pm
All that is very true, but I prefer to think of it as a steamroller running over the band.
It squishes the magic flat.

Not sure if it will accomplish anything, but I've signed up at TurnMeUp.org in an attempt to do something about it.

Bob
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: earthbound on 11 Apr 2009, 11:30 pm
. . . Not sure if it will accomplish anything, but I've signed up at TurnMeUp.org in an attempt to do something about it.

Bob

+1
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: fishinbob on 11 Apr 2009, 11:43 pm
I am personally a bit on the fence about the Madeline Peyroux CD.  I think that it suffers from the compression obsession in today's recording industry, which is too bad as it has some excellent covers of great music.  And her voice is brilliant.  Let us know how it sounds on your Salks.

-Michael
grenmac,

Yes the Madeline Peyroux does not sound as open and unrestrained as I wish it were..


Alex

I checked her out on Amazon and noticed it, even when listening to the clips on my BOSE desktop speakers.  :oops:






This is quite intersting. First, fishinbob, I do not think streaming MP3 files is the way to asset the sound quality.



It is obvious even on mp3. Just a little more degradation to the already compressed mix IMHO
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 12 Apr 2009, 12:35 am
Let me try in more laymans terms..

Some recordings (the really great ones) sound very open, clear, easy to understand the words, the atrist voice is clear and distinct...its not hard to listen to the artist, you dont have to strain to hear the words etc...

Even artists with strong vocal capability are sometime mic'd or mixed into the background, for whatever reason...

Sometimes is lack of dynamic range. but not always..

When the singer is magically sitting there in between the speakers and the illusion makes you really smile...and is so clear it obvious. regardless of the artist...or material.

Add the quality of the sound, uncolored as best possibl by great drivers..its magic...

Recently I have been on a Joni Mitchell kick, watching some old DVD 's  from 1980 with Dolby 5.1 that sound like crap but are still very awesome to me...not even close to demo material or really good recordings, but its what we have from back then...

I dont know if its the sound equipment back then or the mixing or just a combination of all the old stuff or methods used back then...great material and artist but ho-hum sound and I really like Joni Mitchell.

I guess the compression adjective to me and others means we are trying to say its not all there, because maybe someone has reduced the overall dynamic range in the recording or mixing process???

These recordings soun dull, less sharp and lacking the zip and zing..

See I told you this would be not-technical stab at this!!

All I know is when its done right YOU KNOW IT immediately!!

As many of the recordings everyone has shared in this post....so far very few 'duds'.

All the best
Alex


Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: TJC712 on 12 Apr 2009, 01:21 am
Let me try in more laymans terms..

Some recordings (the really great ones) sound very open, clear, easy to understand the words, the atrist voice is clear and distinct...its not hard to listen to the artist, you dont have to strain to hear the words etc...

Even artists with strong vocal capability are sometime mic'd or mixed into the background, for whatever reason...

Sometimes is lack of dynamic range. but not always..

When the singer is magically sitting there in between the speakers and the illusion makes you really smile...and is so clear it obvious. regardless of the artist...or material.

Add the quality of the sound, uncolored as best possibl by great drivers..its magic...

Recently I have been on a Joni Mitchell kick, watching some old DVD 's  from 1980 with Dolby 5.1 that sound like crap but are still very awesome to me...not even close to demo material or really good recordings, but its what we have from back then...

I dont know if its the sound equipment back then or the mixing or just a combination of all the old stuff or methods used back then...great material and artist but ho-hum sound and I really like Joni Mitchell.

I guess the compression adjective to me and others means we are trying to say its not all there, because maybe someone has reduced the overall dynamic range in the recording or mixing process???

These recordings soun dull, less sharp and lacking the zip and zing..

See I told you this would be not-technical stab at this!!

All I know is when its done right YOU KNOW IT immediately!!

As many of the recordings everyone has shared in this post....so far very few 'duds'.

All the best
Alex




In staying with the layman's perspective...  Visualize a black/white photo vs. the same photo in bright, full color.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: oneinthepipe on 12 Apr 2009, 01:38 am
The loudest passages become quieter, and in some compression schemes, the quietest passages become louder, so the loudest kick drum could potentially be the same volume as the quietest brush snare.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 12 Apr 2009, 11:18 am
The loudest passages becoming less loud speaks to compression and or reduction in the overall dynamic range....when done on both ends of the frequency spectrum this is pretty dramatic....

Sometimes the recording engineer trying to accentuate something may reduce or increase a range of frequencies for whatever reason...all this results in a compression of what could have been ....

The real test is how it sounds when you play it at home on your system to most...

Way back in the beginning I wanted the least amount of 'stuff' in my system. I did not want a myraid of cables and preamps, amps, equalizers, etc...

It was simple, a really nice CD deck (Denon 3300) hooked with some silver Litz cables directly to a large amp, hooked to some fine speakers with some really fine cables ( or should I say really big in girth  :lol:)....

I had no preamp, no tape deck, no phono, no FM, no DSP or Lexicon stuff....just the shortest path between the CD to the speakers...

Maybe this is why I like small tight groups, artists etc...because you can really hear them, really clear and really up front and personal...with well recorded, material.

Anyhow... its a good discussion and anything that you think that really 'shines' on your SongTowers or other speakers is what we are looking for...regardless of materal....up to a point  :wink:

Maybe we can get together as a group and get an Amazon discount!!

All the best..and the Kona this am is really good!
 aa

Alex


Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 12 Apr 2009, 12:26 pm
Maybe this is why I like small tight groups, artists etc...because you can really hear them, really clear and really up front and personal...with well recorded, material.
Keb' Mo' - "Suitcase"  aa
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: TJC712 on 12 Apr 2009, 04:38 pm
Maybe this is why I like small tight groups, artists etc...because you can really hear them, really clear and really up front and personal...with well recorded, material.
Keb' Mo' - "Suitcase"  aa

I never heard Keb' Mo' so I just downloaded "Suitcase" on Itunes to check him out. I know... we're just talking about the whole compression thing with digital music and all, but I'm not the most patient guy.... but kudos to Bob here. This is some good stuff. I'll have to purchase some other Keb' Mo' cd's.  Thanks Bob... great recommendation!
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 12 Apr 2009, 04:59 pm
You're welcome, glad I could help.
Yea, he's got some great stuff indeed. The Keb' Mo' albums I've got are:

- "The Door"
- "Just Like You"
- "Keb' Mo'" {self titled}
- "Slow Down"
- "Suitcase"

Out of those 63 songs, I think there's three of four I don't like. All sound good (very good) from a quality standpoint.
Quite a few of the songs have some nice, tactful bass to them. Very clean, "snappy, thumpy" bass.  aa

How's your wallet Alex? 
Ready for some more yet? (http://www.hawthorneaudio.com/forums/images/smilies/Bob_spend.gif)  :wink:

Bob
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Gord_Toronto on 12 Apr 2009, 05:30 pm
I got some Mo Keb from the library before I received my new system.  It was good, but I wasn't blown away. 

I'll be sure to check 'em out again. 
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Thebiker on 12 Apr 2009, 05:35 pm
This was one of the CD's that I traveled with when I was shopping for a new set of speakers.....dynamic range is AWESOME, IMHO.

(http://www.referencerecordings.com/images/RR%2096s.jpg)

Great recording with an outstanding arrangement.

Walt
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: JerryM on 12 Apr 2009, 05:36 pm
Roger Waters - Amused to Death

Have fun,
Jerry
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: rodge827 on 12 Apr 2009, 05:56 pm
You're welcome, glad I could help.
Yea, he's got some great stuff indeed. The Keb' Mo' albums I've got are:

- "The Door"
- "Just Like You"
- "Keb' Mo'" {self titled}
- "Slow Down"
- "Suitcase"

Out of those 63 songs, I think there's three of four I don't like. All sound good (very good) from a quality standpoint.
Quite a few of the songs have some nice, tactful bass to them. Very clean, "snappy, thumpy" bass.  aa

How's your wallet Alex? 
Ready for some more yet? (http://www.hawthorneaudio.com/forums/images/smilies
/Bob_spend.gif)  :wink:

Bob

+1

I was listening to the self titled "Keb Mo" the other night and his rendition of Robert Johnson's "Come on in my kitchen" is awesome track on many levels. This would be a great album to start a Keb Mo (Kevin More) collection with.

Enjoy,

Chris
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 12 Apr 2009, 10:01 pm
If you're into the blues, John Lee Hooker's CD of "Chill Out" is VERY good sound quality.
I forgot all about him until he revolved through the SqueezeBox playlist.
NICE.  :thumb:

Bob
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: ardee on 12 Apr 2009, 10:17 pm
I do enjoy me some keb mo also.   While I do not know of the recording quality of his work I feel Eric Bibb is another great that to me is in the same vein as Keb Mo.   Maybe others will know.    While I am at it I don't want to derail the thread from its purpose but would love to know if anyone knows of the quality of Rodrigo y Gabriella (sp?)?     I cannot get enough of these two.
Thanks
Robert
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 12 Apr 2009, 11:23 pm
Yes, Eric Bibb is another one of my favorites for sound quality, and overall "good blues tunes".
I was waiting for Alex to recover from our barrage of recommendations before I gave that one.  :lol:

I've got:

- "A Ship Called Love" {Good sound quality, very nice}
- "Home to Me" {This one sounds compressed. Not my first recommendation, unless you're a HUGE Eric Bibb fan}
- "Painting Signs" {Again, sounds slightly compressed. Not as bad as "Home to Me" though.
- "Friends" {This is neat. It's a bunch of duets with other blues artists. Acceptable sound quality, kinda, sometimes. Some tunes sound like they're actually clipping. Much like the duets where performed at different times, at different locations, with different engineers at the controls. Some tunes are GREAT, some are horrible. Good music with noteworthy artists, worth having if you're a fan of the blues, or a Mr. Bibb fan}.

Overall, Eris Bibb has some darn good blues tunes. I like Eric a lot, although he does get a little preachy about "peace, love and happiness, anti-war, anti-fighting" kinda lyrics. But good music depending on how you feel about that sort of thing.

Bob

EDIT: Never heard of Rodrigo y Gabriella
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: ardee on 12 Apr 2009, 11:36 pm
Great to hear about Eric Bibb.   I cant wait to get my speakers.

ok Had to check the disc to make sure I had the name right and I did.    If you are a fan of acoustic guitar, Mexican style/flamenco and I do not no how to describe the rest that makes up there music you have got to check them out.    These guys jam.  I bought both there cds which actually come with dvds.    It is some guitar music at its best (I do not know enough nor do I have the experience to say they are the best and I wouldn't.)   I find the Live from Japan album has a little more energy (surprise its a concert) but this music for me is infectious.   Driving my wife crazy.

Beautiful music a must to check out.    I just hope the quality of recording is there for my new ordered speakers.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Rocket on 12 Apr 2009, 11:39 pm
Hi,

Is this thread about the best recordings or what music you like?  Lets just list really top notch cd's.

Btw I bought Robert Plant/Alison Krauss 'Raising Sand" cd and it is well recorded.  Garbage in garbage out really describes the sound of Salk speakers when listening to poorly recorded music.

Regards

Rod

Edit:  Btw thanks Bob for the recommendation I'll check that cd out.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: zybar on 12 Apr 2009, 11:40 pm
Hi,

Is this thread about the best recordings or what music you like?  Lets just list really top notch cd's.

Btw I bought Robert Plant/Alison Krauss 'Raising Sand" cd and it is well recorded.  Garbage in garbage out really describes the sound of Salk speakers when listening to poorly recorded music.

Regards

Rod

You should hear it in 24/96...YUMMY!!

George
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Rocket on 12 Apr 2009, 11:43 pm
Hi George,

Where can I purchase a 24/96 version from?

Btw thanks for your recommendation of Salk speakers last year.  It was a great leap of faith buying and shipping them to Australia.  One of the few products I've purchase OS that the hype is confirmed.

Regards

Rod
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: zybar on 12 Apr 2009, 11:46 pm
Hi George,

Where can I purchase a 24/96 version from?

Btw thanks for your recommendation of Salk speakers last year.  It was a great leap of faith buying and shipping them to Australia.  One of the few products I've purchase OS that the hype is confirmed.

Regards

Rod

Rod,

You can buy it from HDtracks:

http://www.hdtracks.com/index.php?file=catalogdetail&valbum_code=HD011661907522

As for the Salks...that was an easy recommendation.

George

Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: ardee on 13 Apr 2009, 12:00 am
From my understand this thread is about Outstanding Demo CDs.     Just throwing out an addition to the type of music that went with the same style as Keb Mo.

While I did state I did not want to derail the thread from its original purpose, I apologize for throwing out some great music that my be worth checking out.     I guess we can disregard my posts and continue to recomend Demo music.    

Gabage in garbage out
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: rahimlee54 on 13 Apr 2009, 12:14 am
Hi George,

Where can I purchase a 24/96 version from?

Btw thanks for your recommendation of Salk speakers last year.  It was a great leap of faith buying and shipping them to Australia.  One of the few products I've purchase OS that the hype is confirmed.

Regards

Rod

Rod,

You can buy it from HDtracks:

http://www.hdtracks.com/index.php?file=catalogdetail&valbum_code=HD011661907522

As for the Salks...that was an easy recommendation.

George



Are those better than buying the cd and ripping them in FLAC?
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: zybar on 13 Apr 2009, 12:23 am
Hi George,

Where can I purchase a 24/96 version from?

Btw thanks for your recommendation of Salk speakers last year.  It was a great leap of faith buying and shipping them to Australia.  One of the few products I've purchase OS that the hype is confirmed.

Regards

Rod

Rod,

You can buy it from HDtracks:

http://www.hdtracks.com/index.php?file=catalogdetail&valbum_code=HD011661907522

As for the Salks...that was an easy recommendation.

George



Are those better than buying the cd and ripping them in FLAC?

If you buy the normal 16/44 version it is no different than buying the physical cd and ripping it yourself.

The difference is in buying the hi-rez 24/96 version.  I don't believe you can buy that on physical media.

George
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: rodge827 on 13 Apr 2009, 01:40 am
Great to hear about Eric Bibb.   I cant wait to get my speakers.

ok Had to check the disc to make sure I had the name right and I did.    If you are a fan of acoustic guitar, Mexican style/flamenco and I do not no how to describe the rest that makes up there music you have got to check them out.    These guys jam.  I bought both there cds which actually come with dvds.    It is some guitar music at its best (I do not know enough nor do I have the experience to say they are the best and I wouldn't.)   I find the Live from Japan album has a little more energy (surprise its a concert) but this music for me is infectious.   Driving my wife crazy.

Beautiful music a must to check out.    I just hope the quality of recording is there for my new ordered speakers.


I have the "Live in Japan" disc. Where this recording falls off sonically  it more than delivers in the emotional energy department. Well worth the purchase IMHO.

If you like the Flamenco Guitar style look into Ottmar Liebert. The Ottmar Liebert & Luna Negra - Viva is a very good live recording of his.

Chris   
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Rocket on 13 Apr 2009, 02:01 am
Hi,

Pink Floyd 'Dark Side of the Moon' fans.  Dream Theater has a live version of this cd.  The recording and sound is very good.

Regards

Rod
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Art_Chicago on 13 Apr 2009, 02:26 am
Hi George,

Where can I purchase a 24/96 version from?

BTW thanks for your recommendation of Salk speakers last year.  It was a great leap of faith buying and shipping them to Australia.  One of the few products I've purchase OS that the hype is confirmed.

Regards

Rod

Rod,

You can buy it from HDtracks:

http://www.hdtracks.com/index.php?file=catalogdetail&valbum_code=HD011661907522

As for the Salks...that was an easy recommendation.

George



thanks for the link. BTW, all these were recorded as 96/24? I did not look hard enough, but it is not apparent. Actually, what format do they use now for stereo? Does it depend on the label?
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: ardee on 13 Apr 2009, 02:26 pm
Great to hear about Eric Bibb.   I cant wait to get my speakers.

ok Had to check the disc to make sure I had the name right and I did.    If you are a fan of acoustic guitar, Mexican style/flamenco and I do not no how to describe the rest that makes up there music you have got to check them out.    These guys jam.  I bought both there cds which actually come with dvds.    It is some guitar music at its best (I do not know enough nor do I have the experience to say they are the best and I wouldn't.)   I find the Live from Japan album has a little more energy (surprise its a concert) but this music for me is infectious.   Driving my wife crazy.

Beautiful music a must to check out.    I just hope the quality of recording is there for my new ordered speakers.


I have the "Live in Japan" disc. Where this recording falls off sonically  it more than delivers in the emotional energy department. Well worth the purchase IMHO.

If you like the Flamenco Guitar style look into Ottmar Liebert. The Ottmar Liebert & Luna Negra - Viva is a very good live recording of his.

Chris   

Thanks for the info on rod&gab.   And a big thanks for the rec on the Ottmar Leibert.   Very nice.   I can not get enough of good acoustic guitar.

Robert
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: zybar on 13 Apr 2009, 02:43 pm
thanks for the link. BTW, all these were recorded as 96/24? I did not look hard enough, but it is not apparent. Actually, what format do they use now for stereo? Does it depend on the label?

Not all the material on HDtracks is in a hi-rez format.

They have a section specifically for hi-rez.

You can also purchase 16/44 (i.e. Redbook) albums.

George
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: oneinthepipe on 13 Apr 2009, 03:32 pm
George:

I don't know anything about the hi-rez format, but will most external DACs play back the 96/24 input? 

Thanks.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: zybar on 13 Apr 2009, 03:47 pm
George:

I don't know anything about the hi-rez format, but will most external DACs play back the 96/24 input? 

Thanks.

I don't think "most" DAC's will play back a 24/96 stream at its native resolution.

You need to check your digital source or DAC to see what it supports.

George
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: charmerci on 13 Apr 2009, 04:31 pm
Since I'm in transition and my system is in storage,  :( I can't make any conclusive sonic statements about Muddy Water's The Folk Singer. From what I have heard in others' systems, it seems like it might be sonically a  :thumb: but at least you can't do wrong with the incredible performance. (If anyone else can comment on it's sound, please do.)
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: zybar on 13 Apr 2009, 04:33 pm
Since I'm in transition and my system is in storage,  :( I can't make any conclusive sonic statements about Muddy Water's The Folk Singer. From what I have heard in others' systems, it seems like it might be sonically a  :thumb: but at least you can't do wrong with the incredible performance. (If anyone else can comment on it's sound, please do.)

It is killer on LP, CD, and Hi-Rez download (24/96).

Highly recommended!   :thumb:

George
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: ted_b on 13 Apr 2009, 05:09 pm
Yes, Muddy Waters' Folk Singer is certainly a sonic and musical A+ list pick.  The good news is that it is one of most widely available hirez recordings, too, with Classic DAD 24/96, vinyl, SACD and the even slightly more resolving and musical Classic HDAD (24/192 DVD-Audio side).  The DAD and HDAD  can be ripped to hard disc, using certain tools (DVDAExplorer for MLP stuff up to 24/192, and DVD Audio Extractor for PCM up to 24/96).  There are many DACs today that can read 24/96, fewer that read native 24/192, and the majority that are 16/44 (some with upsampling, but that's another topic for another thread.. :) ).  As George pointed out, check your DAC for it's resolution, and check your source and signal path for its compatibility (i.e native USB is often relegated to only 16/44, if no proprietary drivers or asnychronous comms like Gordon's Wavelength or Ayre archtitecture, or Steve Nugent's nice USB implementations have been involved).

George, where is it available as a hirez download though?
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: zybar on 13 Apr 2009, 05:31 pm
Yes, Muddy Waters' Folk Singer is certainly a sonic and musical A+ list pick.  The good news is that it is one of most widely available hirez recordings, too, with Classic DAD 24/96, vinyl, SACD and the even slightly more resolving and musical Classic HDAD (24/192 DVD-Audio side).  The DAD and HDAD  can be ripped to hard disc, using certain tools (DVDAExplorer for MLP stuff up to 24/192, and DVD Audio Extractor for PCM up to 24/96).  There are many DACs today that can read 24/96, fewer that read native 24/192, and the majority that are 16/44 (some with upsampling, but that's another topic for another thread.. :) ).  As George pointed out, check your DAC for it's resolution, and check your source and signal path for its compatibility (i.e native USB is often relegated to only 16/44, if no proprietary drivers or asnychronous comms like Gordon's Wavelength or Ayre archtitecture, or Steve Nugent's nice USB implementations have been involved).

George, where is it available as a hirez download though?

Ted,

I just realized that I made a mistake and didn't download "Folk Singer", but rather extracted it from a DVD Audio - sorry about that.

The DVD-A is widely available and easily obtainable.

Here is one example:

http://www.musicdirect.com/product/74915

George

Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: konut on 13 Apr 2009, 09:51 pm
I have owned the Muddy Waters "Folk Singer" CD from Mobile Fidelity for years. I'm scratchin' my head. While the performance is outstanding, the tape hiss and cheesy spring reverb overload keep this from being a first order audiophile recording by a long shot. Maybe the hi-rez versions have somehow dispensed with those artifacts from the master tape. Sorry I can't join in on the chorus of Halleyuyas on this one.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 13 Apr 2009, 10:15 pm
How about the two disc CD: Lyle Lovett "Step Inside This House" from a sound quality standpoint?  aa

Bob
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: konut on 13 Apr 2009, 10:25 pm
How about the two disc CD: Lyle Lovett "Step Inside This House" from a sound quality standpoint?  aa

Bob

Is this directed at me? Have never been a fan of Mr. Lovett, so I don't own any of his CDs.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 13 Apr 2009, 10:34 pm
This was directed at Alex. You know, the guys who's thread we've destroyed.  :lol:

Actually, I've very much disliked Lyle Lovett for a couple decades. Not sure what "clicked" several months ago, but now I listen to him quite often.
Give him another shot. If you'd like specific track recommendations, I can do that.

Bob
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: rajacat on 13 Apr 2009, 10:41 pm
How about the two disc CD: Lyle Lovett "Step Inside This House" from a sound quality standpoint?  aa

Bob

I think that Step Inside This House has excellent sound quality. In fact, most of Lyle Lovett's cds are way above average in SQ.

-Roy
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 13 Apr 2009, 10:49 pm
Yes Roy, I'd agree.
Lyle has a very diverse discography. It ranges from steel guitar, pickin', whiny, country (not for me), to Blues, to some of these lesser known genres I can't really pin down to an exact definitive "sound". It's quite possible those who don't like him may not have heard on of his genres that are their style. I'm sure that's why I didn't like him for so many years, I just wasn't exposed to enough of it to find the right ones.
Of the several CDs of his I have, the SQ is definitely above average. I'd give a bit of a nod to "Step Inside This House" by a bit of a margin though.
"Joshua Judges Ruth" is very very good as well. There's a couple songs on that one that pop up on various DEMO discs from time to time.

Bob

p.s. I like Muddy Waters, but haven't heard anything that I can stand to listen to. It all sounds horrible from a quality standpoint.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: rajacat on 13 Apr 2009, 11:14 pm
Bob,

Church on Joshua Judges Ruth with the choir backing is a good demo cut.

-Roy

p.s.   I think that Lyle Lovett has incredible amount of talent. He has an excellent voice and can match most any song writer in whatever genre he chooses.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: low.pfile on 13 Apr 2009, 11:25 pm
For you 80's fans.

I listened to Tears for Fears - The Hurting last night and was very impressed by the recording. This is a very somber album with stark vocals and minimal instrumentation. The vocals come out of a very deep background and the guitars and drums are very clear.

I have the Mercury CD reissue (http://www.amazon.com/Hurting-UK-Bonus-Tracks/dp/B00000K413/ref=ntt_mus_ep_wlb_dpt) from the UK released in 1999. That replaced my original release 1983 cassette.  After listening I ordered the vinyl LP . We'll see how that sounds.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 13 Apr 2009, 11:48 pm
Church on Joshua Judges Ruth with the choir backing is a good demo cut.
Yea it is, as is "North Dakota". The silence between the notes is dead quiet.

Bob
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 14 Apr 2009, 02:37 am
sorry double post!!
Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 14 Apr 2009, 02:38 am
Hello,

Thanks to all for the new recommendations!!

The original thread was started by me, to help expand my awareness of really well recorded 2 ch cd's that I could play on my new SongTowers...those cds that are of really good quality....

As I said in the first post:

"Ok,

I  know there are bits and pieces of great music in many threads, but I would like to see a thread that has references to really great recordings that you all have experienced. The kind you play to show off your Song Towers....and for that matter any of the Salk or other speakers.

Yes I have a hidden agenda here, I am a few weeks away (fingers crossed) from taking delivery of a new pair of SongTowers..and want to try some new stuff!!

I have hundreds of CD's and have some favorites I will share as well.

I am not a snobby type of person and dont care if its Jazz, Rock or Classical....

I am looking more towards the traditional 2 cd stereo cd's....the ones that are really well produced, mixed  and have great dynamic range..

So I will start it off with a few of my favorites:

Richard Souther's "Cross Currents."
Year Released: 1990.

Track 5 : Mary's Question and the transistion into Track 6: High Tide.

The entire cd is very well recorded and really shines in my humble opinion. I believe its classified as "New Age". I very much like the entire CD and it has many low to high transitions, synths, snappy sounds and just a great all around demo CD.

Ok thats one....I will add many more over the life of this thread!

Alex"


So as long as we keep to this discussion and recommendations this is great, if we digress a little either side of this topic thats fine too....I never want this to become so strait laced like many other threads or BBS or forums that we scold people for being a bit off base...

The intent is to share the wealth about those really good recordings you are aware of ...I do not like all the cd's mentioned in the thread well recorded or not..just because of my personal tastes...but thats fine....there maybe some that will like the material and we all win!!

I got a really nice care package from some of you out there that has been a blessing in disguise...and my horizans have been widely expanded. Thanks to those!! You know who you are!!   aa

So back to saving for the next round of cd's!!!

All the best
Alex


Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 14 Apr 2009, 02:52 am
Bob,

The only Lyle Lovett CD I have is the Joshua, Judges and Ruth, which is superlative.

I am not a Lyle fan per say, but I got this based on a recommendation from the thread and it has really grown on me and I have
come to like it alot. It is demo CD quality to me.

Aint it grand that things we may have disliked we now like and vica versa.

I just got the 2 cd version of Rolling Stones 'Hot Rocks' which has circa 1964-1972 songs...remastered via DSD technology, these are NOT SACDs but they used the
same technology used in DSD to redo these early songs from the original analog tapes...

The are superb to me , but not really of the demo type this thread was started about, but if your a Stones fan fom days bygone its worth the listen...some of the remasterings are extremely well done while some kind of are ho-hum....

All the best..
Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 15 Apr 2009, 01:37 am
Well it was one of those special moments, let me say I am not a country fan, but thru this thread I have discovered the likes of Cowboy Junkies....I even went to see Chet Atkins in concert a long time ago when he started playing acoustic jazz....but I am not a country fan by far.

Well many posts back someone suggested Blue Rodeo and their Five Days in July CD.

I got it, played it real quick to get an idea of the material and put it aside for another day....thinking I had just bought a lemon cd.

Well, you know  maybe it was the mood, the time of day, or whatever but I listened to this disc tonight serioulsy and with each cut I kept getting sucked into this cd....deeply.

Its not often that it all comes together, I kept saying at the end of this cd to myself, " dang this is a 10 out of 10 and I am not a country fan, but this recording, material, vocals are so so good how can I not like this...and I  did!!

I was so enamored with the total package...this cd is DEMO quality all around. The SongTowers absolutely SHINE is reproducing this CD's content....The Dark Angel cut is superlative. The last track has vocals and just vocals for a bit and its just absoltuely amazing...most of the vocals in this cd are 'male' so this is a refereshing change from all the great female artist cds we have been playing lately.

This would be the one disc I would use to show off what my SongTowers can do...phenomenal overall soundstage and presence....big, tight, strong, low bass it will blow you mind...do I sound excited???

Even if you dont like this style of music its worth listening to.....if this doesnt make you smile then you need to take up knitting!!!  aa

So there!!

All the best
Alex :thumb:


Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Gord_Toronto on 15 Apr 2009, 02:40 am
For you 80's fans.

I listened to Tears for Fears - The Hurting last night and was very impressed by the recording. This is a very somber album with stark vocals and minimal instrumentation. The vocals come out of a very deep background and the guitars and drums are very clear.

I have the Mercury CD reissue (http://www.amazon.com/Hurting-UK-Bonus-Tracks/dp/B00000K413/ref=ntt_mus_ep_wlb_dpt) from the UK released in 1999. That replaced my original release 1983 cassette.  After listening I ordered the vinyl LP . We'll see how that sounds.

Lowpro

I took your advice and spun my copy of "The Hurting".  Its also a 1999 Mercury UK release.  I clear as a bell remember this album winning "album of the year" from the Alternative Radio Station I listened to at the time, in 1982 when it was released.  Its been some time since I've had it on, but I've listened to this album a thousand times.  This was the 1st time on the ST-RT's.  The layers and textures that they revel and that I never heard before.  It was quite a pleasure to discover what had been previously hidden.

When I now listen the most striking thing is how forward the drums are of the vocals.  The vocals are quite powerful and yet they always seem to be coming from behind the drums. 

This has to be one of the few albums with the synthesized drums that still sounds great.  In fact in this case the drum sound is great.  When I listen to much of the "New Wave" that I was so exited about 20 odd years ago I hear the Drum Machine kills it for me.  They used to sound so cutting edge, now I listen and say "what happened, the drummer go on break?".  Not "The Hurting" though, you are constantly finding your attention grabbed and pulled right into the textures, vocals, drums and sound effects.

Others may disagree, but I could easily see playing several of the tracks to show off my ST's.  However, like the Cowboy Junkies there are times when I wish that the vocals were more forward and not as mixed into the instruments, but it always a fun ride.  The entire album is top notch every track shines.  I think I could have done without the bonus tracks though, they add nothing IMO


Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: charmerci on 15 Apr 2009, 04:40 pm
-
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: earthbound on 16 Apr 2009, 12:10 am
Possible ultimate demo discs?!? I just got an email from Chesky Records regarding ther new 192 kHz/24-bit series which are wav files burned bit to bit onto a DVD-R. I think they need to be played on a computer. They have the potential to really sound great. I'd like to hear from anyone who has heard these, and are they worth $45?
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Gord_Toronto on 16 Apr 2009, 04:25 am
Woe hoe; hit pay dirt at the Library today.  Picked up countless CD's & Artists that have been recommended on this thread.  Didn't find the Blue Rodeo or the Lyle Lovett that I was really looking for.  Saw a couple other Blue Rodeo's but not the one recommended.  I remember seeing Blue Rodeo in a Bar about a hundred years ago. 

Found:
Alison Krauss + Union Station  - "Live"
I'm not into Blue Grass or Country.  I could see right away that it is a spectacularly clear recording with a beautiful sound stage.  It took me into my 2nd listen to warm up to the genre.  On the 2nd time through I'm sucked right into a new world.  Perfect

Madeleine Peyroux  -  "Careless Love"
Found this and got home in time to cancel it from my Amazon order that fortunately has not shipped yet  I haven't heard this one yet or any of the others that follow.

Cassandra Wilson
Picked up 4 by her.  There was also another 4 I could have taken, but this was enough for now

Spyro Gyro   -  "The Deep End"
I don't know anything about them, at least other than Alex is or was one of their groupies

Keb' Mo'
Picked up 3 by Mo.  Again there were others, but not his self titled which was the one I wanted to find

Eric Bibb  -  "Natural Light" & "A Ship Called Love"
Never heard of the guy

Diana Krall  -  "All For You"
I think I must have pretty well all her albums now.  Except the new one.  I heard a song from the new one on the radio in the car this AM.  Sounded good, but now that everyone has talked so much about the "pianoectomy" its hard not to be over critical while listening for something that isn't there

Thanks to all for the suggestions
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: fishinbob on 16 Apr 2009, 08:30 pm
Well it was one of those special moments, let me say I am not a country fan, but thru this thread I have discovered the likes of Cowboy Junkies....I even went to see Chet Atkins in concert a long time ago when he started playing acoustic jazz....but I am not a country fan by far.

Well many posts back someone suggested Blue Rodeo and their Five Days in July CD.

I got it, played it real quick to get an idea of the material and put it aside for another day....thinking I had just bought a lemon cd.

Well, you know  maybe it was the mood, the time of day, or whatever but I listened to this disc tonight serioulsy and with each cut I kept getting sucked into this cd....deeply.

Its not often that it all comes together, I kept saying at the end of this cd to myself, " dang this is a 10 out of 10 and I am not a country fan, but this recording, material, vocals are so so good how can I not like this...and I  did!!

I was so enamored with the total package...this cd is DEMO quality all around. The SongTowers absolutely SHINE is reproducing this CD's content....The Dark Angel cut is superlative. The last track has vocals and just vocals for a bit and its just absoltuely amazing...most of the vocals in this cd are 'male' so this is a refereshing change from all the great female artist cds we have been playing lately.

This would be the one disc I would use to show off what my SongTowers can do...phenomenal overall soundstage and presence....big, tight, strong, low bass it will blow you mind...do I sound excited???

Even if you dont like this style of music its worth listening to.....if this doesnt make you smile then you need to take up knitting!!!  aa

So there!!

All the best
Alex :thumb:

I bought it too and like you set it aside after a quick audition with the cans on. After reading your report I gave it some time with the SongTowers but was put off from the get go by the distorted guitar work on the first cut which seemed to be going rather nicely at first. To sum it up I wasn't as impressed and some cuts were rather tune-ish and not demo cuts in my book. The audio quality was fine but to me they are not quite demo or audition type stuff. But after re-reading your post I went back to listen to Dark Angel and it is indeed a good sounding cut but again not very demanding so as to show off some of the qualities the SongTowers possess. Sorry adydula but we shall have to agree to disgree on this one. But what the hell do I know ....:dunno:

To put the Blue Rodeo disc in perspective, at least from my jaded point of view, I cued up Dark Angel on one player and then selected a song from...(as some might guess) Alison Krauss & Union Station So Long So Wrong on the other, the cut was It Doesn't Matter. Don't get me wrong the Blue Rodeo sounded good to me too but oh .. this cut from her kills, .....period. As I've stated before just about all their stuff is very well done and make your speakers work for a living at times. So if you find you find you like their "Live" album check this one out.

Good listening
Bob




Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: 1000a on 16 Apr 2009, 11:14 pm

Joe Jackson - any
Peter Wolf- Sleepless
Buena Vista Social Club
Sonny Rollins-  Saxophone Colossus
Ali Farka Toure & Tuomani Diabatie- In the Heart of the Moon - (recorded in an African Hut- exceptional sound quality)
Steve Turre-  TNT / Sanctified Shells / In the Spur of the Moment
Chucho Valdes- Live at the Village Vanguard / Bele Bele en La Habana
Clark Terry-  Live-Village Gate   
Taj Mahal- Shoutin in Key (Live) / Senor Blues
Dire Straits- any (especially the remasters)
Patrica Barber- any
Steely Dan- more recent stuff
Little Carlie and the Night Cats- Disturbing the Peace (CA band - jump blues-very funny lyrics, fantastic harp- mind numbing guitar- just fantastic stuff)
Jimmie Lee Robinson- All My Life  (acoustic blues recorded in an old church- Blue Heaven Studios -direct 2 track analog)

ck out anything recorded in Blue Heaven Studios  :drool:  :drool:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: 1000a on 16 Apr 2009, 11:22 pm
left out a couple

John Mellencamp- Trouble No More (acoustic stuff very good really like this cd, excellent sound Q)
Jorma Kaukonen-  Blue Country Heart    :D
Ry Cooder -any (recent 10 yrs all good sound Q)
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 16 Apr 2009, 11:29 pm
fishinbob,

I understand your post and comments, its good to be honest on how you feel about the stuff we post here and listen to.
Zybar and brucemck both thougt that Dark Angel was an outstanding song...

I just got the live Allison Krauss Live and will give it a listen to soon and let you know how I like it as well.

Again its ok to disagree about what is a demo disk etc...

Just keep finding new stuff and keep sharing what you think is outstanding....

All the best
Alex



1000a, many thanks for the recommendations, I need to try some of the Dire Straits stuff, its been a long time since I have listened to them.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 17 Apr 2009, 12:50 am
I need to try some of the Dire Straits stuff, its been a long time since I have listened to them.
"Brothers in Arms" XRCD. After a few decades of disdain for Dire Straits, this particular release changed my mind.

Since Mr. 1000a brought up Steely Dan....Has anybody mentioned Donald Fagen yet?
"The Nightfly", "Morph the Cat", and "Kamakiriad" are very nice.
"Morph the Cat" has some silly bass in it.  :icon_twisted:

Bob
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: rahimlee54 on 17 Apr 2009, 01:13 am
Dream Theater-Images and words one of my favorite cds, not for everyone but I dig them.

This thread is cool I am making my next order list :).
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 17 Apr 2009, 01:22 am
I really like Dream Theater, but (personally), I'd pass on the 20th Anniversary DVD-A of "Score".... :shake:
Not good (imho) in the sound quality category.

Bob
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: TJC712 on 17 Apr 2009, 03:52 am
I need to try some of the Dire Straits stuff, its been a long time since I have listened to them.
"Brothers in Arms" XRCD. After a few decades of disdain for Dire Straits, this particular release changed my mind.

Since Mr. 1000a brought up Steely Dan....Has anybody mentioned Donald Fagen yet?
"The Nightfly", "Morph the Cat", and "Kamakiriad" are very nice.
"Morph the Cat" has some silly bass in it.  :icon_twisted:

Bob

Fagen's Nightfly certainly worth the price of admission.  Esperanza by Esperanza Spalding is very interesting and worth a listen. Some unique sounds from a talented, young female bassist.  Uses all top shelf musicians on her album... great sound thru the ST's.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: TJC712 on 17 Apr 2009, 04:18 am
Another relatively obscure guy that sounds great thru my ST's is Phil Roy out of Philly.  I have 2 CD's of his (Grouchyfriendly and The Great Longing) that I like quite a bit. He writes some interesting, eclectic stuff with some cool lyrics.  Probably a little bit of an acquired taste but talented, nonetheless.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: TJC712 on 17 Apr 2009, 04:38 am
One last choice before I call it a night.  For you older "gray hairs" like myself, If you want to hear some crisp/clean swing, check out Harry Allen Meets the John Pizzarelli Trio.  Simply put... a great tenor sax joins a tight, top notch jazz trio playing some old standards... well recorded, easy listen. 
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: charmerci on 17 Apr 2009, 06:20 pm
Paul Simon's One Trick Pony

Its a bit more bluesy/jazzy than his normal stuff.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: fishinbob on 17 Apr 2009, 10:12 pm
Paul Simon's One Trick Pony

Its a bit more bluesy/jazzy than his normal stuff.

I don't have that one yet, but do have a couple of the others he's done and they are well engineered discs. I have played cuts from his Graceland album more than once to show off my system. You Can Call Me Al is one that comes to mind, brass and a driving beat, enough bass and not to much synth, a real toe tapper that deserves to be cranked up a bit :thumb:

Thanks to lonewolfny42 for this one (below). Topnotch :thumb:

Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: rahimlee54 on 17 Apr 2009, 10:26 pm
Everyone needs a copy of http://www.amazon.com/Holst-Planets-Gustav/dp/B000050AQC/ref=pd_bbs_sr_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1240007102&sr=8-1]http://www.amazon.com/Holst-Planets-Gustav/dp/B000050AQC/ref=pd_bbs_sr_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1240007102&sr=8-1This]http://www.amazon.com/Holst-Planets-Gustav/dp/B000050AQC/ref=pd_bbs_sr_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1240007102&sr=8-1 (http://www.amazon.com/Holst-Planets-Gustav/dp/B000050AQC/ref=pd_bbs_sr_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1240007102&sr=8-1This)
Just got mine earlier this week and I really enjoy it, I am still waiting on my Salks to let me know how good it really is, sounds good on my HD555 though on the Comp.

Can  you hyper link text with the link here?
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: rajacat on 18 Apr 2009, 02:43 am
El Corazon by Don Cherry and Ed Blackwell
Walking with Giants by Jacob Fred Jazz Odyssey
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: cop1s on 18 Apr 2009, 03:39 am
Try Quiet Letters or Afterlife from Bliss
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: jhm731 on 18 Apr 2009, 04:05 am
Astral Weeks Live at the Hollywood Bowl

"The only thing I love is the music. The rest of it is pure shit." - Van Morrison


Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: lonewolfny42 on 18 Apr 2009, 05:49 am
Try this one for a good variety of tunes, well recorded...and fun. :wink:

Three Mo' Tenors... (http://www.amazon.com/Three-Mo-Tenors-Thomas-Young/dp/B00005LVVC)... :thumb:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Russell Dawkins on 18 Apr 2009, 08:13 am
At the risk of being accused of extreme bias (I recorded it), this is well recorded and fun, too: http://tinyurl.com/Canadian-Tenors
but it is quickly disappearing into the mists of time after only 4 years because the tenors disbanded and re-formed a year later with entirely new personnel.  :cry:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 18 Apr 2009, 12:32 pm
Good Morning!

Looks like a great day in North Carolina today, no rain, blue skies. 78 degree high!! So its off to chopping into some concrete to fix a drainage problem with a downspout!  :duh:

Well I listened to the Allison Krauss & Union Station. I got the DVD version with DTS 5.1 and Dolby 5.1 and 2ch.

Not being a bluegrass fan, it took several cuts to warm up to and start really appreciating the talent and voice of Allison Krauss.  I listened to the entire concert and it was marvelous.

Let me cut to the chase, I will be buying more of Allison Krauss....just want to get their recordings that are well recorded...many say "anything by Allison Krauss" are any of her recordings that stand out as being well recorded than others?


And many thanks for the new posts and more great selections!

Later
Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: fishinbob on 18 Apr 2009, 02:12 pm
Good Morning!

Looks like a great day in North Carolina today, no rain, blue skies. 78 degree high!! So its off to chopping into some concrete to fix a drainage problem with a downspout!  :duh:

Well I listened to the Allison Krauss & Union Station. I got the DVD version with DTS 5.1 and Dolby 5.1 and 2ch.

Not being a bluegrass fan, it took several cuts to warm up to and start really appreciating the talent and voice on Allison Krauss.  I listened to the entire concert and it was marvelous.

Let me cut to the chase, I will be buying more of Allison Krauss....just want to get their recordings that are well recorded...many say "anything by Allison Krauss" are any of her recordings that stand out as being well recorded than others?


And many thanks for the new posts and more great selections!

Later
Alex

Hey Alex .. glad you enjoyed it. Two of my favorite studio cuts from them (her) are New Favorite on the album of the same name and the last one I mentioned which is It Doesn't Matter from So Long So Wrong.

There are some very good tracks on both and are of a more recent vintage. Some of the earlier stuff is also good and you will notice how her singing style has changed somewhat over the years. Not quite so country sounding these days. :thumb:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: grenamc on 18 Apr 2009, 03:33 pm
I haven't read the entire thread, so it is likely this has been mentioned already.  I like Neil Young's "Live at Massey Hall 1971".  I think it has a great sense of space and the recording quality is, IMO, quite excellent.  Neil and a guitar or piano.  The guitar has some wonderful body to it, but sadly the piano is not rendered as well.  His voice is captured brilliantly, though.  I highly recommend it. 


-Michael
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: ted_b on 18 Apr 2009, 04:28 pm
I haven't read the entire thread, so it is likely this has been mentioned already.  I like Neil Young's "Live at Massey Hall 1971".  I think it has a great sense of space and the recording quality is, IMO, quite excellent.  Neil and a guitar or piano.  The guitar has some wonderful body to it, but sadly the piano is not rendered as well.  His voice is captured brilliantly, though.  I highly recommend it. 


-Michael
+1, especially at 24/96
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: zybar on 18 Apr 2009, 07:43 pm
Uncle Tupelo - March 16-20, 1992

This is my favorite Uncle Tupelo album and was produced by Peter Buck of R.E.M

Besides the music being killer, the sonics are excellent and will definitely highlight your systems' strengths and/or weaknesses.

The highlights to this album are:

"Coalminers"
"Shaky Ground"
"Black Eye"
"Moonshiner"
"I Wish My Baby Was Born"
"Fatal Wound"
"Sandusky"

George
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 18 Apr 2009, 08:01 pm
fishinbob,

I ordered the So Long So Wrong this morning. Looking forward to this one.

Interesting how artists sometimes change over time.

Joni Mitchell is one of may favorite artist with her twangy voice, but it suits me  :D

She has definitely changed over the years as well, some from just loosing the abilitiy of not being able to hit those high notes when you get older!

I like songs that tell a story about life and experiences etc...

Thanks again for the recommendations, looks like the budget is shot already for this month!

All the best

Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: grenamc on 19 Apr 2009, 07:11 am
I recently got into Uncle Tupelo, George.  The only version of the 1992 concert available now is a re-release from 2003 with bonus tracks.  Is this the copy you have?  I am just wondering if the re-release has been given the compression treatment.  If so, I will find a used copy of the original.

-Michael
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Airborn on 19 Apr 2009, 08:25 am
Ben Harper, Fight For Your Mind is an excellent demo CD IMHO. Not a bad track on the whole album and quite a few that will give any system a workout. 
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: grenamc on 25 Apr 2009, 12:44 am
I am listening to Lucinda Williams : Live @ the Fillmore and I am loving it.  Understand, my system is not A-list at the moment, so it is possible that this is not an outstanding Demo of a great system.  It is an excellent performance, however.  Once the Orions are built I will be able to better discern it's level of excellence sonically.

Michael
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: OgOgilby on 26 Apr 2009, 03:11 pm
I'm surprised no one has mentioned "Windham Hill: The First Ten Years". There are a lot of good demo tracks on it if you like guitar and piano. Of the two disks, I prefer the second.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: fishinbob on 27 Apr 2009, 07:40 pm
I am listening to Lucinda Williams : Live @ the Fillmore and I am loving it.  Understand, my system is not A-list at the moment, so it is possible that this is not an outstanding Demo of a great system.  It is an excellent performance, however.  Once the Orions are built I will be able to better discern it's level of excellence sonically.

Michael


AYSM?     :lol:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 27 Apr 2009, 08:36 pm
Well,

I have listened to the Allison Krauss & Union Station DVD..in 5.1 and 2 ch and the overall performance was very, very good. I since then bought two more normal redbook cd's and have listened to only one of them so far, the "So Long So Wrong" and een though I like Allisons voice, I did not think this cd overall was really fantastic as a demo, some real good cuts, but I thought the mic'ing or the engineering on this is not up to the 10 out of 10 category....

I will listen to it again and maybe I will change my mind, but I was not blown away like I was in Blue Rodeo, Five Days in July....

This may be complicated just because I never was a bluegrass fan....its not meant to be a negative statement, but more of a personal preference due to years of collective bias on my part!!  :cry:

I really did enjoy the DVD, and the talent and Allisons very beautiful voice.

I hope the secong album will be more positive.

All the best,

Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: fishinbob on 29 Apr 2009, 01:08 pm
Well,

I have listened to the Allison Krauss & Union Station DVD..in 5.1 and 2 ch and the overall performance was very, very good. I since then bought two more normal redbook cd's and have listened to only one of them so far, the "So Long So Wrong" and een though I like Allisons voice, I did not think this cd overall was really fantastic as a demo, some real good cuts, but I thought the mic'ing or the engineering on this is not up to the 10 out of 10 category....

I'm sorry if you were misled. I mentioned the It Doesn't Matter cut on SLSW as a comparison to the quality of the recordings. Admittedly the staging is a bit artificial and Alison's vocal has been tweaked but I believe that was the intention of the mix. My issue with the FDIJ disc is not the performance, some of the cuts are quite nice. It's the recording itself. I hear quite a bit of noise on several pieces and when I demo, for the most part, the volume is such that it becomes quite audible, and that is a drag. :(

As far as the demo quality of the aforementioned song I prefer to play a nice sounding piece that I think people will enjoy. Most of the people who hear my stuff aren't attuned to the technical qualities of the recordings or even the equipment. They ... hopefully, just love what they're hearing. :thumb:

Listening with a  :green: on my face,

Bob

Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 2 May 2009, 02:27 am
hey bob,

I understand that..when we first got into solid state stuff we were always cranking it up to find the 'hiss' etc...

Some recordings do have a high ambient background noise and you do here it at the end of a track when they cut everything down...its amazing how noisy they can be.

The demo cd or tracks I started this thread about really was aimed at the overall experience rather than specific criteria for what defines a demo cd..never want to get that complicated..

More of a what does everyone listen to on their SongTowers etc that really plays well on them...

The clarity, the mixing, the everything, the kind of experience while listening that makes you smile and saw OMG that was just awesome!!

So the content may not be everyones cup of tea, but its gotta to be well done all around and any one area where it may not be up to spec is fine to....but its got to WOW us!!

 aa

I have not been able to liste alot in the past week, life has once again got in the way of play time!! :|

I hope to get back early next week and post some new recordings....i have a stack to listen to!!

All the best

Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 5 May 2009, 12:13 am
I havent had the time to listen for a week now and just got around to listening to a really old Joni Mitchell recording on Reprise record label from way back, full of that old analog hiss.....BUT the sound of the acoustic guitar from that timeframe with a not so great recording on the SongTowers was a pleasure to listen to...

Then I listened to New Favorite by Allison Krauss and fishinbob this cd is a 5 star, 10 out of 10 recording to me.

I was blown away from the first cut...and like I have said I am not a hard core bluegrass listener...but dang if it doesnt grow on you!!  :wink:

The Dobro (sp?) guitar on this album will make you cry its that clear, distinct and awesome.....

This is one album I would not hesitate to use to show off the SongTowers.

I will go back and re-listen to SLSW again but I dont recall it having this affect on me...I was slobbering all over myself with the sound quality and the content of the material...

Thanks for the Allison Krauss suggestions its been a grand experience!!

All the best
Alex
 :thumb:
 aa
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: fishinbob on 5 May 2009, 01:21 am

Then I listened to New Favorite by Allison Krauss and fishinbob this cd is a 5 star, 10 out of 10 recording to me.

I was blown away from the first cut...and like I have said I am not a hard core bluegrass listener...but dang if it doesnt grow on you!!  :wink:

The Dobro (sp?) guitar on this album will make you cry its that clear, distinct and awesome.....

This is one album I would not hesitate to use to show off the SongTowers.

I will go back and re-listen to SLSW again but I dont recall it having this affect on me...I was slobbering all over myself with the sound quality and the content of the material...
 :thumb:
Thanks for the Allison Krauss suggestions its been a grand experience!!

All the best
Alex
 :thumb:
 aa

The title cut on New Favorite is one of her best, the very last track.  It's the one I like to start with :thumb:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Gord_Toronto on 5 May 2009, 01:47 am

Then I listened to New Favorite by Allison Krauss and fishinbob this cd is a 5 star, 10 out of 10 recording to me.

I was blown away from the first cut...and like I have said I am not a hard core bluegrass listener...but dang if it doesnt grow on you!!  :wink:

The Dobro (sp?) guitar on this album will make you cry its that clear, distinct and awesome.....

This is one album I would not hesitate to use to show off the SongTowers.

I will go back and re-listen to SLSW again but I dont recall it having this affect on me...I was slobbering all over myself with the sound quality and the content of the material...
 :thumb:
Thanks for the Allison Krauss suggestions its been a grand experience!!

All the best
Alex
 :thumb:
 aa

The title cut on New Favorite is one of her best, the very last track.  It's the one I like to start with :thumb:
[/quote]

Just picked this one up myself.  I can't decide whether I'm now into Bluegrass or its all about Alison.  I don't even notice that its Bluegrass anymore, its just great music.  I suspect its all about Alison.

+1 on the title track.  This baby haunts you
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 5 May 2009, 02:13 am
Gord,

It has to be both...her voice is really very, very special for sure....its haunting and etheral at times.

The group has a real dedication to excellence and it shows for sure.

The first cut , Let Me Touch You For Awhile is really awesome....and yes the last cut is brilliant!!

Aint life grand, and to have such a wonderful set of speakers to enjoy this music on is icing on the cake...

say thank you!!

Thank You!

Alex
 :D
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 7 May 2009, 12:15 pm
Ok,

I listened to a friends demo disc and there were several cuts that were really outstanding. I didnt have the playlist, but got it last night, thanks BobM/lonewolfny42!

One of the tracks had a female jazz singer that sounded familiar but I honestly did not know who it was.

It turns out to be a Diana Reeves, singing "Feeling of Jazz" and the 'band' was great.

This cut is from Wynton Marsalis's "The Magic Hour".

This track to me is a very good demo track, the instruments and placement is excellent.

I do not have any Wynton Marsalis material or Diana Reeves, but I did get a copy of "The Magic Hour" and am looking forward to listening to more of this soon!

All in all this one song / cut is AWESOME.

Demo material for sure!

All the best
Alex

 aa
Title: .
Post by: oneinthepipe on 7 May 2009, 08:42 pm
.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: zybar on 7 May 2009, 10:58 pm
Ok,

I listened to a friends demo disc and there were several cuts that were really outstanding. I didnt have the playlist, but got it last night, thanks BobM/lonewolfny42!

One of the tracks had a female jazz singer that sounded familiar but I honestly did not know who it was.

It turns out to be a Diana Reeves, singing "Feeling of Jazz" and the 'band' was great.

This cut is from Wynton Marsalis's "The Magic Hour".

This track to me is a very good demo track, the instruments and placement is excellent.

I do not have any Wynton Marsalis material or Diana Reeves, but I did get a copy of "The Magic Hour" and am looking forward to listening to more of this soon!

All in all this one song / cut is AWESOME.

Demo material for sure!

All the best
Alex

 aa

This song was part of the NYAR Demo disc that Chris (aka Lonewolfny42) and is indeed a great test of a system.  If the system is bright or harsh, this song will send you running for the hills.  If the system is too warm or soft, the brass will have no bite and be "blah".

George
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 8 May 2009, 03:38 pm
Its very nice on the SongTowers!!

track 13 on this one has some really LOW organ notes...vibrates everything like AWESOME!

 :D

Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: grenamc on 12 May 2009, 01:53 pm
I am pretty sure it was mentioned in this thread, and I went looking for it so I could thank the person that suggested it.  Blue Rodeo "5 Days in July" is fantastic.  I am loving every minute of it.  The music is beautiful and the recording quality is excellent.  Also, loving Uncle Tupelo's "March 16-20, 1992" disc.  Thanks George! 


-Michael
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 12 May 2009, 02:38 pm
Brian Bromberg "Wood".

Sample tracks > HERE < (http://www.amazon.com/Wood-Brian-Bromberg/dp/B000063IVK).
Just plain, downright, awesome funky upright bass with lots of quality recording engineering behind it all.
Those Song Towers like the low frequencies from upright bass? Then they'll love these tracks.  aa :drool:

(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51X2JT9D0NL._SL500_AA240_.jpg)
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 12 May 2009, 02:56 pm
grenamc,

The 5 days in July I bought and listened to in a hurry and thought that this was a waste of $$$$.

Then I really listened to it a few weeks back and was really blown away with it.

Bob in St. Louis,

I will look in to Brian Bromberg and Wood...the Songs do very well with Upright Bass for sure...its really amazing what these 'skinny' little speakers do with
stringed bass...

Thanks for the suggestions!

All the best
Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 12 May 2009, 03:00 pm
Good deal Alex.
If you like "Wood I", there is a "Wood II" as well.

Bob
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: zybar on 12 May 2009, 03:06 pm
I am pretty sure it was mentioned in this thread, and I went looking for it so I could thank the person that suggested it.  Blue Rodeo "5 Days in July" is fantastic.  I am loving every minute of it.  The music is beautiful and the recording quality is excellent.  Also, loving Uncle Tupelo's "March 16-20, 1992" disc.  Thanks George! 


-Michael

My pleasure.

I have received lots of good music recommendations here on AC.

George
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: rajacat on 12 May 2009, 03:11 pm
The Complete Jack Johnson Sessions...Miles Davis

Very well recorded. Awesome sound quality. :D


(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41xrn8l2CQL._SS500_.jpg)
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: rajacat on 12 May 2009, 09:13 pm
Minnesota Orchestra  SHOWCASE Eiji Oue   Strauss: Don Juan
HDCD
 Recorded by REFERENCE RECORDINGS,  San Francisco, CA

Great resolution! :thumb:  At one point I thought I could hear the conductor turn a page of the score. :o

(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/4181W5ZTTGL._SS500_.jpg)
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: DMurphy on 12 May 2009, 11:07 pm
Minnesota Orchestra  SHOWCASE Eiji Oue   Strauss: Don Juan
HDCD
 Recorded by REFERENCE RECORDINGS,  San Francisco, CA

Great resolution! :thumb:  At one point I thought I could hear the conductor turn a page of the score. :o

(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/4181W5ZTTGL._SS500_.jpg)

Thanks for the tip.  In general, Reference Recordings have outstanding sonics on classical selections.  I use a highlights CD to demo all my speakers. 
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Art_Chicago on 13 May 2009, 02:44 am
Brian Bromberg "Wood".

Sample tracks > HERE < (http://www.amazon.com/Wood-Brian-Bromberg/dp/B000063IVK).
Just plain, downright, awesome funky upright bass with lots of quality recording engineering behind it all.
Those Song Towers like the low frequencies from upright bass? Then they'll love these tracks.  aa :drool:

(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51X2JT9D0NL._SL500_AA240_.jpg)
Thanks, Bob, just ordered it!
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 13 May 2009, 04:47 am
Cool!  :thumb:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 1 Jun 2009, 02:52 am
Thanks to all for the great recommendations!!, This post has moved to the second page and I could not let that happen. I've been real busy at work and life and have not had the pleasure of listening a lot in the past few weeks but should be back soon! I have been playing with my OPPO BD-83 player with 2 ch and its very nice to say the least.

Thanks for the Brian Bromberg suggestion and the Jack Johnson selection as well!!

All the best

Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Art_Chicago on 3 Jun 2009, 02:51 am
Hi,

Is this thread about the best recordings or what music you like?  Lets just list really top notch cd's.

Btw I bought Robert Plant/Alison Krauss 'Raising Sand" cd and it is well recorded.  Garbage in garbage out really describes the sound of Salk speakers when listening to poorly recorded music.

Regards

Rod

You should hear it in 24/96...YUMMY!!

George

Guys,
I downloaded 24/96 file from HDtracks, but there is a hiss that does not let me enjoy the music. I contacted the HDtracks, but they said that the hiss is there because the producer wanted so. They  also sent the link: http://www.head-fi.org/forums/f9/raising-sand-hiss-purpose-285419/
No any other files  from the website  "hiss" like this one. Try track 3, it is unbearable. I have no idea why it is there.
I am so pissed-- it was my first hi rez file, 16 bucks well spent! It is a shame because at least 3 tracks are in "the best" category.

Sorry, I mean no offence, just venting... :smoke:

Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Art_Chicago on 10 Jun 2009, 06:24 pm
Brian Bromberg "Wood".

Sample tracks > HERE < (http://www.amazon.com/Wood-Brian-Bromberg/dp/B000063IVK).
Just plain, downright, awesome funky upright bass with lots of quality recording engineering behind it all.
Those Song Towers like the low frequencies from upright bass? Then they'll love these tracks.  aa :drool:

(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51X2JT9D0NL._SL500_AA240_.jpg)

Bob, everything you said here is true, IMO. Thanks again.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 10 Jun 2009, 07:19 pm
Great!!

Now I have to spend some more hard earned dollars!! This selection looks really good!

All the best
Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 11 Jun 2009, 12:52 am
Alex, have I steered you wrong yet?  :wink:

I promise the Bromberg discs will satisfy the most discriminating of tastes.

Bob
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 17 Jun 2009, 05:05 pm
Hey Bob!

No you have not, lots of good recomendations etc!

Please keep them coming.

I have been really busy the last several weeks with all kinds if life issues, work etc...

I as many of us have too many irons in the fire!!

I look forward to some more serious listening!!

Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 17 Jun 2009, 07:34 pm
Joss Stone "The Soul Sessions"  aa

She's a young gal with a voice beyond her years. Kinda bluesy mixed with the slightest touch of a modern young woman. Old school blended very well with a new young twist. Very classy, very well performed and good sound quality for a modern vocal performed by someone her age. She's got a couple other releases, but they (unfortunately) depart from the blusey genre and border on the modern day definition of R&B.  :(
The song "Dirty Man" is one I'll play for a "newbee" to music to hear what real quality vocals sound like. Although, most veteran audio guys that have come to my house have heard this tune as well. A great demo.
If the song "Some Kind Of Wonderful" doesn't get your head boppin', then you must be dead. Good bass thump.

Overall, one of my favorite albums, not just for great sound quality, but for jammin' as well.

SAMPLES (http://www.amazon.com/Soul-Sessions-Joss-Stone/dp/B0000C0FKA) from Amazon

(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/5147%2BnG1akL._SL500_AA240_.jpg)

Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 21 Jun 2009, 03:01 pm
Ok I am waiting for Bromberg to arrive!!

On another note I was wondering on if there are any source for some well recorded / engineered old stuff from the 60's and 70's.

What I am looking for is some of the older bands / groups that I would love to hear remastered without all that analog hiss etc...

I know it may not be the audiophile type of jazz etc...but the old funstuff we listened to grwoing up:

Like:  Beatles, Rolling Stones, Turtles, Procul Harem, and on and on and on....

I recently got the remastered set of Rolling Stones " Hot Rocks"...some of the songs were hot and some were terrible.

Again looking for quality and really good re-mastering etc....

Alex
 :D

Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: lonewolfny42 on 21 Jun 2009, 03:18 pm
Alex...

"What I am looking for is some of the older bands / groups that I would love to hear remastered without all that analog hiss etc..."

If you enjoy Elton John....try these remasters....

http://www.amazon.com/Elton-John/dp/B000001EG6/ref=sr_1_7?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1245597300&sr=1-7

http://www.amazon.com/Tumbleweed-Connection-Elton-John/dp/B000001EG4/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1245597300&sr=1-3

http://www.amazon.com/Madman-Across-Water-Elton-John/dp/B000001EGC/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1245597300&sr=1-4
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: fishinbob on 21 Jun 2009, 04:15 pm
Typed in remastered at the big river and see some Beatles re-masters are due out Sep 9th. :D
Ok I am waiting for Bromberg to arrive!!

On another note I was wondering on if there are any source for some well recorded / engineered old stuff from the 60's and 70's.

What I am looking for is some of the older bands / groups that I would love to hear remastered without all that analog hiss etc...

I know it may not be the audiophile type of jazz etc...but the old funstuff we listened to grwoing up:

Like:  Beatles, Rolling Stones, Turtles, Procul Harem, and on and on and on....

I recently got the remastered set of Rolling Stones " Hot Rocks"...some of the songs were hot and some were terrible.

Again looking for quality and really good re-mastering etc....

Alex
 :D
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 22 Jun 2009, 12:21 am
lonewolfny42,

Thanks I just ordered the three Eltons!

I also see that most of the Beatles stuff is going to be remastered and out on Sept 9th!!

Cool....Looks like this collection will get re-juvenated!! yahoo!!

Re-live those crazy old days!!

I turn 60 years young this tuesday!!

All the best and many, ,many thanks for those goodies u shared with me!!

All the best
Alex aa
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 22 Jun 2009, 12:23 am
Happy (early) Birthday Alex!!  :birthday:

Bob
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: lonewolfny42 on 22 Jun 2009, 06:04 am
lonewolfny42,

Thanks I just ordered the three Eltons!

I also see that most of the Beatles stuff is going to be remastered and out on Sept 9th!!

Cool....Looks like this collection will get re-juvenated!! yahoo!!

Re-live those crazy old days!!

I turn 60 years young this tuesday!!

All the best and many, ,many thanks for those goodies u shared with me!!

All the best
Alex aa

Don't jump too quick on the Beatle stuff Alex...I'd wait and see how they "turn out". :wink: (watch for comments)

And.....

Have A Happy Birthday!! :beer:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: jimdgoulding on 22 Jun 2009, 06:23 am
Joss Stone "The Soul Sessions"  aa

She's a young gal with a voice beyond her years. Kinda bluesy mixed with the slightest touch of a modern young woman. Old school blended very well with a new young twist. Very classy, very well performed and good sound quality for a modern vocal performed by someone her age. She's got a couple other releases, but they (unfortunately) depart from the blusey genre and border on the modern day definition of R&B.  :(
The song "Dirty Man" is one I'll play for a "newbee" to music to hear what real quality vocals sound like. Although, most veteran audio guys that have come to my house have heard this tune as well. A great demo.
If the song "Some Kind Of Wonderful" doesn't get your head boppin', then you must be dead. Good bass thump.

Overall, one of my favorite albums, not just for great sound quality, but for jammin' as well.

SAMPLES (http://www.amazon.com/Soul-Sessions-Joss-Stone/dp/B0000C0FKA) from Amazon

(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/5147%2BnG1akL._SL500_AA240_.jpg)

Young gal can bring it.  Was listening to Herbie Hancock's "Possibilities" cd one morning and my daughter walked by and asked . . "That Joss Stone?  She can bring it."  Uh, yeah, she can.  Bobby knows.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: oneinthepipe on 22 Jun 2009, 02:11 pm
Joss Stone "The Soul Sessions"  aa

She's a young gal with a voice beyond her years. Kinda bluesy mixed with the slightest touch of a modern young woman. Old school blended very well with a new young twist. Very classy, very well performed and good sound quality for a modern vocal performed by someone her age. She's got a couple other releases, but they (unfortunately) depart from the blusey genre and border on the modern day definition of R&B.  :(
The song "Dirty Man" is one I'll play for a "newbee" to music to hear what real quality vocals sound like. Although, most veteran audio guys that have come to my house have heard this tune as well. A great demo.
If the song "Some Kind Of Wonderful" doesn't get your head boppin', then you must be dead. Good bass thump.

Overall, one of my favorite albums, not just for great sound quality, but for jammin' as well.

SAMPLES (http://www.amazon.com/Soul-Sessions-Joss-Stone/dp/B0000C0FKA) from Amazon

(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/5147%2BnG1akL._SL500_AA240_.jpg)

Young gal can bring it.  Was listening to Herbie Hancock's "Possibilities" cd one morning and my daughter walked by and asked . . "That Joss Stone?  She can bring it."  Uh, yeah, she can.  Bobby knows.

Just bought the CD on amazon marketplace for 1.25 plus 2.98 shipping.  The CD arrived in the mail today.  Can't listen until I get home.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: fishinbob on 22 Jun 2009, 02:27 pm
Don't jump too quick on the Beatle stuff Alex...I'd wait and see how they "turn out". :wink: (watch for comments)





The original Beatle recordings tended to sound a little thin to me. Even on vinyl. If the remasters sound anything like some of the cuts on the Love album ... I'm in :hyper:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 22 Jun 2009, 05:02 pm
Well,

Heres my test, I ordered only one of the re-mastered albums, the one I think that is the best of the best...Revolver. If it stands up to muster then I need to take a loan out..if not oh well..

Alex aa
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 24 Jun 2009, 06:47 pm
Thanks for all the nice B-Day greetings!!!  :D

I will wait on the Beatles stuff and see how they turn out for sure...

Wood shoul dbe here today!

Mr. Pipe let us know how you like Joss Stone.

Alex

Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 30 Jun 2009, 02:35 am
Bob!

Well I just listened to Wood and its absolutely wonderful. I havent really listened for several weeks and it was good to get back into the groove!

Track 3 and Track 9 are AWESOME.

I know that Jared a friend who got a pair of HT2 - TL's started a thread on the twangy sound from plucking steel strings really hard...and was wondering if his speakers were reproducing this well compared to some "ushers?" that cost a wee bit more....

When I listened to this cd I was blown away at the harmonics and really neat sounds that this artist was making and the ST's were able to reproduce.

I think Jim could use Track 3 as a demo cut for his cd he send to purchasers of Salk speakers.

At no time did the SongTowers have an issue with reproducing anything in this cd.
What a sweet sound on a sweet set of speakers....

Thanks for the recommndation again!!
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 30 Jun 2009, 02:19 pm
You're welcome!
Yes, tracks three and nine are my favorite from "Wood I" as well. That 'funky string thing' he does in a couple of the songs is pretty cool. I also love the sounds he makes by tapping on the instrument itself and rubbing the strings. Neat little effects like that are very neat.

Did you get "Wood II"?
If you like the first, then you'll like the second.

Bob
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 1 Jul 2009, 02:48 am



Ok Bob,

Good news, bad news!!

You know I really liked the Wood HDCD, I relistened to it again and its what I would call a really good CD and a great demo treasure for sure.

I was pleasantly surprised to find out this is a HD CD, which is a 20 bit vs 16 bit cd. Never realized this when I purchased it, on my new Oppo BD 83 it pops up as a HDCD and I did a google search and read about HDCD's...now to look for more HDCDs!!

The bad news for me is the Joss Stone CD, Soul Sessions.

I can see that this artist is special and has lots of talent for sure....but
the overall quality of this recording to me was not that stellar.

I was shocked that the quality of the recording was not better, after all these really great recordings in this thread this one, again "to me" with my electronics, Salk SongTowers and room, it just was very plain, and a dull recording.

The songs were great as far and I thought something was wrong with  my system and I cycled thru the DSP modes, turned Audessy on and off. None of these things seem to help the overall quality of the recording. I listen to CD's via my Onkyo 805 receivers "Pure Audio" mode....what comes in goes to the amp and out. I also take the cd out from the Oppp BD83 to the amp....using the new DACs in the OPPO.


The content and Joss Sones performance was stellar, its just that the recording felt compressed to  me and lacked in dynamic range. Maybe this was done on purpose to tone down the background instrumnets and vocals to handle the awesome dynnamic range of Joss Stones voice.


Is it me, am I loosing my 'ear'...

Help

Alex 

Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 1 Jul 2009, 03:09 pm
Is it me, am I loosing my 'ear'...
It could be a different "pressing" (or whatever they call it for CDs).  :dunno:
Sincerely sorry about that one Alex, my apologies.  :oops:

Regarding the higher quality HDCD of "Wood", you can also look for "XRCD". That's another good format. I've got an XRCD of Count Basie called "88 Basie Street" that's amazing sound quality....But I think I mentioned that one already. If not, then consider this my official recommendation.  :lol:

If you're into Blues: Also on HDCD is Keb' Mo' "Slow Down". That's another good one.

My Harmon Kardon receiver displays the Keb' Mo' disc as "HDCD", but does not show the Brian Bromberg disc as HDCD. Strange.
Again, different "pressings", or recording companies may have mastered it differently. The answer to that one is out of my league.

Again, sorry about the Joss disc.

Bob
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Russell Dawkins on 1 Jul 2009, 03:41 pm
Could also be a re-mastering. Sometimes between production runs the opportunity is taken to re-master. This could involve different compression (could be more or less) and EQ - even such things as stereo width.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 1 Jul 2009, 05:56 pm
Hey Bob,

Please dont feel bad about the recommendation!!

The material and artist are great its just that the recording was a bit flat...

I have the Keb Mo disc and its awesome!

I ordered the XRCD of the Count Basie but it got cancelled at the 9th hour...will try again.

There are several places that list 20bit hdcd discs I discovered as well..

Keep up the recommendations!!

All the best
Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 7 Jul 2009, 12:47 am
Well,

I just played a really OLD CD, Santana's Abraxas...not the remastered one, but the original and I was pleasantly surprised how explosive this set of recordings are.

Has anyone listened to the newer remastered copy?

Is it worth the upgrade?

Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: zybar on 7 Jul 2009, 12:51 am
Another great demo cd:

Ben Harper & Relentless7 - "White Lies For Dark Times"

This is Ben Harper with a really tight, and raucous 3 piece blues/rock band.

Sonics are good to very good, but the music is outstanding!!

This cd will seriously test the boogie factor of your setup, as well as dynamics and the ability to convey the musical energy of the recording.

Here is what Allmusic.com has to say:

http://www.allmusic.com/cg/amg.dll?p=amg&sql=10:fxfexzu0ldae

George
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 7 Jul 2009, 01:22 am
Thanks George!

I will look into this one for sure!

Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 11 Jul 2009, 06:11 pm
George,

Just listened to the Ben Harper & Relentless!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Holy Cow Batman, what a awesome, awesome experience....one after another it just kept getting better and better....

I am not a real hard rock fan, but this cd really is very, very explosive...

I liked the tone, sound and recording...

The songtowers never skipped a beat, it really is a great Demo CD for these speakers.


I realize theses Song's dont go as low as others but dang for 98% of whats there and this is a real good example of the 98% they 'rule' for the price, sound quality and overall experience.

On track 6 the acoustic guitar on the left channel is so sweet and so accurate sounding...

Nuance likes Joe Satriani and Rubina..I hope he has this album I think he would really like this rock style cd.

I can not thank you enough for this recommendation!!!

If there any other of Ben Harpers stuff thats in this class please let me know!!

All the best
Alex


Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: lonewolfny42 on 12 Jul 2009, 06:43 am
Alex....

Quote
If there any other of Ben Harpers stuff thats in this class please let me know!!

May have sent this...I forgot  :scratch:...if not...get this...

"Fight for Your Mind"....Ben Harper... (http://www.amazon.com/Fight-Your-Mind-Ben-Harper/dp/B000000W9M/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1247380875&sr=1-2)...I still prefer this over his latest... :wink:

Another....I always forget :duh:....
I'm too wicked for it...but the Spirit will fill you Alex...."There Will Be a Light" (http://www.amazon.com/There-Light-Harper-Blind-Alabama/dp/B0002MPPVK/ref=ntt_mus_ep_wlb_dpt)...excellent harmony... :thumb:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: zybar on 12 Jul 2009, 09:20 am
Alex....

Quote
If there any other of Ben Harpers stuff thats in this class please let me know!!

May have sent this...I forgot  :scratch:...if not...get this...

"Fight for Your Mind"....Ben Harper... (http://www.amazon.com/Fight-Your-Mind-Ben-Harper/dp/B000000W9M/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1247380875&sr=1-2)...I still prefer this over his latest... :wink:

Another....I always forget :duh:....
I'm too wicked for it...but the Spirit will fill you Alex...."There Will Be a Light" (http://www.amazon.com/There-Light-Harper-Blind-Alabama/dp/B0002MPPVK/ref=ntt_mus_ep_wlb_dpt)...excellent harmony... :thumb:

Good recommendations Chris.

I would also add Live From Mars.  This is a live, double cd package.  One disc contains all acoustic music and one disc is electric. 
Highlights include excellent covers of "Sexual Healing", "The Drugs Don't Work", and "Whole Lotta Love" + Ben's originals "Like A King/I'll Rise", "Burn One Down", "Glory and Consequences", "Power of the Gospel, and "Please Bleed".

George
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Jeff M on 12 Jul 2009, 09:39 am
Try the group called Yello. They did the song "Oh Yeah" from Ferris Bueller. One cd in particular is called "Baby". It is a very dynamic and well recorded disc with amazing imaging and effects with tons of different instruments. They made alot of cd's and most are alot of fun on a nice system.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 17 Jul 2009, 01:48 am
lonewolfny42,

Just listened to Ben Hapers "Fight For Your Mind" and its really good.

Very well recorded and the sounds are so nicely articulated!! :D

Oh and its really is hot!!

There is another thread started by Dennis Murphy looking for some really heavy duty bass cds for the Wash Dc gathering.

I got the S.M.V. Thunder selection by Stanley Clarke, Marcus Miller, and Victor Wooten.


Man this is really nice...what talented artists and what a nice recording.

Start with track 10 Lil Victa and hang on!!

Big Smiles on these two selections...very good for demo'ing your SongTowers or whatever!!

Thanks Again
Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: DMurphy on 17 Jul 2009, 02:39 am
Dang.   I didn't order that one.  Just finished up the HT1 TL's.  I was rattling projection screens and door jams at 29 Hz--not bad for a single W18 woofer. 
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: oldmp3 on 17 Jul 2009, 02:43 am
Holly Cole's "God Will" from Blame It On My Youth (written by Lyle Lovett).  The Best of Holly Cole also has some particularly nice tracks with string bass.

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=20449)
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 17 Jul 2009, 02:10 pm
Hey Dennis...

You should get it anyway, it will be a standard for really fine bass....and these guys are the best....really fine stuff.

Oldmp3,

I have several Holly Cole cd's and great appreciation of here talents, I will look into this particular cut asap...thanks for the suggestion!

By the way has anyone heard of any good recpordings of the following female singers:

1. Bette Midler

2. Bonnie Rait

All the best
Alex aa
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Airborn on 18 Jul 2009, 12:11 am
Ben Harper, Fight For Your Mind is an excellent demo CD IMHO. Not a bad track on the whole album and quite a few that will give any system a workout. 
Hey, Alex, no love for me?  I recommended Fight for Your Mind to you way back in April!  I'm just kidding...I'm glad your enjoying some of Ben Harper's excellent sounding recordings.  Besides, I would trust Chris' and George's recommendations more than mine too :wink:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: lonewolfny42 on 18 Jul 2009, 07:29 am
14 pages and still going strong...nice. 8)

Alex....

Do you like Jazz ? Here's a few nice one's to own...

 Dave Brubeck - "Time Out"... (http://www.amazon.com/Time-Out-Dave-Brubeck-Quartet/dp/B000002AGN/ref=pd_sim_m_12)

Getz and Byrd - "Jazz Samba".... (http://www.amazon.com/Jazz-Samba-Stan-Getz/dp/B0000047CW/ref=pd_sim_m_7)

Horace Silver - "Song for My Father".... (http://www.amazon.com/Song-My-Father-Horace-Silver/dp/B00000IL27/ref=pd_sim_m_58)

Oscar Peterson - "Tracks"... (http://www.amazon.com/Tracks-Oscar-Peterson/dp/B0009AM658/ref=sr_1_49?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1247901320&sr=1-49)

Duke Ellington - "Masterpieces by Ellington".... (http://www.amazon.com/Masterpieces-Ellington-Duke/dp/B0001CCY9M/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1247901490&sr=1-1)

Joe Henderson - "So Near, So Far (Musings for Miles)"... (http://www.amazon.com/So-Near-Far-Musings-Miles/dp/B0000046P4/ref=pd_sim_m_1)

Ray Brown - "Summer Wind: Live at the Loa" (http://www.amazon.com/Summer-Wind-Live-at-Loa/dp/B0000006IV/ref=sr_1_11?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1247901989&sr=1-11)

Sit back....relax...and let the music take you away... :beer:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 20 Jul 2009, 12:16 am
Airborn!!

This is just for YOU! 

XXX OOO XXX OOO XXX OOO XXX

 aa  aa  aa  aa  aa

With so many good suggestions and recommendations I am sorry I overlooked your
post back in April.

I was going to take "ALL" the selections and list them in  a spreadsheet and maybe make them a 'sticky' for easy
reference.

I do find myself  going back thru the pages of posts from time to time to see what I indeed did forget or
not try yet...

So little time, so many great posts....and $$$$$

I have been away this weekend riding around the mountains in a C6 Z06!!! (for those of you that know) with my wonderful wife, eating and sightseeing in the North Carolina Blue Ridge mountains....

Back to work tomorrow!!



All the best
Alex


Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 20 Jul 2009, 12:22 am
lonewolfny42

Yes I do like jazz and I do have Time Out, Oscar Petersens Tracks...both really good to me.

The others I do not have so I will look into them!

Yes 14 pages, and I am glad people are still droping by with suggestions and to say hello.

I know lots of these cds in this thread are in other threads but its nice to have one here residing in the Salk Signature Sound area.....if it werent for Jim and his elves making these SongTowers I have I would never have started this thread in the first place!!

Funny how life twists and turns....so many really nice people just enjoying music, with all the crap in the real world its nice to lay down lifes 'stuff' and just enjoy the music!!

Thanks again!
Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 20 Jul 2009, 01:20 pm
I have been away this weekend riding around the mountains in a C6 Z06!!!
  :drool: :drool: :drool:
Lucky, lucky man.  aa
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: orientalexpress on 20 Jul 2009, 04:08 pm
If u like Elvis,try this soundtrack http://disney.go.com/disneyrecords/Soundtracks/liloandstitch/index.html
the last 3 track is classical went from 20db to 100db in a hurry.great dynamic
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: TJC712 on 22 Jul 2009, 03:08 am
Been away for a while (just plain old busy), nice to check back in. Just treated myself to new gear for my 50th (Wyred 4 Sound amp & pre; PS Audio DAC) so I've been finding time to listen to some music again.  A belated thanks to all you guys for some tremendous suggestions (as well as Alex for starting this thread).  An interesting listen is The Great Longing from Phil Roy. A refreshing blend of cool, ecclectic things; well recorded stuff.  Nice to be hearing the music again!
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: S Clark on 22 Jul 2009, 01:58 pm
By the way has anyone heard of any good recpordings of the following female singers:

1. Bette Midler

2. Bonnie Rait

All the best
Alex aa
Bonnie Raitt's "Luck of the Draw" was mastered by Doug Sax (an automatic mark of quality) and is excellent--- however, avoid the later remaster which compressed the sound.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 23 Jul 2009, 02:13 am
TJC712,

Welcome back!!!!  :D

Great to have you around...I dont know Phil Roy but will check it out, thanks!

How do you like your new 'stuff'?

S Clark..I will definitely get the Bonnie Rait cd and will avoid the remaster! Thanks also!

All the Best
Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: TJC712 on 23 Jul 2009, 04:09 am
Thank you Alex.  Nice to relax and here some tunes again! The "stuff" sounds great! Without gettung off topic too much... picked up the Wyred 4 Sound ST1000 amp and STP Pre along with their modded PS Audio DLIII Dac... great stuff! EJ Sarmento over at W4S is an absolute pleasure to deal with!

Some tracks tonite that hit the spot: live version of Harbor Lights by Boz Scaggs; Manhattan and They Say Its Spring by Blossom Dearie; Ring of Life by Metheny/Mehldau; Ray Brown-Some of My Best Friends are Singers CD; Clapton's Back Home CD. Listened to a bunch of Ben Harper stuff... good recco guys.

Alex... hope all is well on the family front... good thoughts your way!
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: TJC712 on 23 Jul 2009, 04:48 am
Phil Roy has another CD called Grouchyfriendly that's also worth the price of admission.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: K Shep on 24 Jul 2009, 12:40 am
I have been looking for acoustic recordings lately they sound great through my ST RT's.

Alanis Morrisettte - Jagged Little Pill Acoustic (Enhanced)
http://www.amazon.com/Jagged-Little-Acoustic-Alanis-Morissette/dp/B0009WFF0Y/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1248395439&sr=1-2
Alice in Chains - Unplugged Live
http://www.amazon.com/Unplugged-Alice-Chains/dp/B000002BM5/ref=sr_1_8?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1248395611&sr=1-8
Rodrigo y Gabriela by Rodrigo y Gabriela
http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_ss_m_3_3?url=search-alias%3Dpopular&field-keywords=rodrigo+y+gabriela&sprefix=rod

All great quality recordings.

Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 24 Jul 2009, 03:03 am
Hello K Shep,

Thanks for the recommendations, I will check them out for sure!

TJC712,

Thanks for the kind words, we are hanging in here and just take each day, week as it comes! Checking into your other recommendations, I like Eric Clapton, and look forward to the others, I am not familiar with...this is great, new ground to explore!!

Later
Alex
 :D
 
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: jazzcat1 on 24 Jul 2009, 02:17 pm
I have been looking for acoustic recordings lately they sound great through my ST RT's.

Alanis Morrisettte - Jagged Little Pill Acoustic (Enhanced)
http://www.amazon.com/Jagged-Little-Acoustic-Alanis-Morissette/dp/B0009WFF0Y/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1248395439&sr=1-2
Alice in Chains - Unplugged Live
http://www.amazon.com/Unplugged-Alice-Chains/dp/B000002BM5/ref=sr_1_8?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1248395611&sr=1-8
Rodrigo y Gabriela by Rodrigo y Gabriela
http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_ss_m_3_3?url=search-alias%3Dpopular&field-keywords=rodrigo+y+gabriela&sprefix=rod

All great quality recordings.

+1 on Rodrigo and Gabriela! Love the acoustics on that CD. Can't wait till I can listen on the HT2-TL.

I don't know if it has been mentioned in these threads but AIX has a 96/24 PCM Stereo DVD with Laurence Juber called Guitar Noir. Very good recording, but then again any AIX title is done very well.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: K Shep on 24 Jul 2009, 11:23 pm
Thank you Alex,
This a great thread.  I too enjoy Ben Hapers "Fight For Your Mind".

I will take some time and read throught the thread so I don't repeat recommendations.  I like Electronic music and have a few to pass along, just a cusory pass through, I don't see many listed.  Anybody out there dig Electronic?
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 24 Jul 2009, 11:31 pm
I started this thread to find those really good/great recordings that you would use to demo or show off the wonderful characteristics of the Salk SongTowers.

I have been out of the 2 ch audio 'hobby' for years and gravitated back in via the PC and home theater and the new high resolutions and sound codecs etc...

So I was and still am fishing for really good material, recorded well, exceptional dynamic range etc....

I was not really looking for a particular type of music but like many we all have our preferences and individual tastes.

When the two come together on good stereo equipment its 'magic' for sure.

So if you have some , what you think are exceptional electronic music recommendations they are very much welcome!!

All the best
Alex

Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: ArthurDent on 25 Jul 2009, 03:45 am
  Anybody out there dig Electronic?

imo for Electronic hard to beat early Tangerine Dream: Force Majeure, Ricochet, Stratosfear. Bo Hansson: Attic Thoughts, LOTR

To show off Jim & Dennis' midrange focus with some rock & roll horns check out 'The Flock'. Eclectic '70s Chicago jazz-rock band. 'Dinosaur Swamps' or 'Best of' are both good recordings (at least the original cd releases some 10 years ago were). fwiw if you enjoy jazz violin Jerry Goodman started with The Flock. Not every one's cup of tea, but they are definetly unique.

Thanks for the thread Alex.   8)
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Kris on 25 Jul 2009, 09:12 am
Any international (non English) suggestions here? I think Mari Boine - Eight Seasons (skandinavian) is a great recording.
Also Kevin Johansen - Sur o No Sur is a nice mix of Spanglish tunes and rhythms.

Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: K Shep on 25 Jul 2009, 05:34 pm
Thanks Alex,
I will share what sounds like "magic" on my system.  I have always considered my musical choices as ecclectic, however before I started putting together my current system I would usually choose an Electronic type of music to listen to.  The synthesized drum or bass doesn't sound as organic as a true drum set, currently.  But I have a few CD's that sound great are well engineered and create magic.

Kraftwerk: Mininum-Maximum
http://www.amazon.com/Minimum-Maximum-Kraftwerk/dp/B0009H9NE8/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1248541600&sr=1-1
Uberzone: Ideology
http://www.amazon.com/Ideology-%C3%9Cberzone/dp/B000TGGJRS/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1248542547&sr=1-1
Massive Attack: Mezzanine
http://www.amazon.com/Mezzanine-Massive-Attack/dp/B000006045/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1248542803&sr=1-1
Enigma: Love Sensuality Devotion: The Greatest Hits
http://www.amazon.com/Enigma-Love-Sensuality-Devotion-Greatest/dp/B00005OMTT/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1248542923&sr=1-1

Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: charmerci on 25 Jul 2009, 10:41 pm
Rosa Passos - Romance

Brazilian Samba music. Wonderful singer (not just another beautiful voice - there are many singers out there who have wonderful voices but are simply ordinary singers) and she plays the guitar. Her group is always tight/ very good.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: K Shep on 28 Jul 2009, 09:19 pm

Royksopp: Melody A.M.
http://www.amazon.com/Melody-M-R%C3%B6yksopp/dp/B000253IDO/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1248555661&sr=1-1
Kruder & Dorfmeister: K&D Session
http://www.amazon.com/K-D-Sessions-Kruder-Dorfmeister/dp/B00000G257/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1248555773&sr=1-1
Yaz: The Best of
http://www.amazon.com/Best-Yaz/dp/B000UYX544/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1248555903&sr=1-3
Moorcheeba: Big Calm
http://www.amazon.com/Big-Calm-Morcheeba/dp/B0000065JZ/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1248556069&sr=1-1
 
More good stuff!
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 31 Jul 2009, 12:23 am
Hello,

I finally got to listen to one of the many cd's stacked up in the to "listen to" stack. It was Aimee Mann's Magnolia cd.

I never really new who she was or how good or bad of a recording this was. This was recommended by someone back in this post as a demo quality cd.

The SongTowers make this cd a pleasure to listen to.

The CD to me has several cuts that are very well done and recorded very well. I dont really think its really a top notch demo cd, more of if you like Aimee Mann this a really good selection of her songs etc...

What I like about this recording is you can hear her voice and the words which does make this a real pleasure to listen to.

I liked it so much that I have more of her cds on the way!

I have several of the latest recommendations on their way, the electronic music stuff...cant wait to see what this stuff is like!!

All the best
Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Nels Ferre on 31 Jul 2009, 12:51 am
This recommendation may seem odd, but here goes: "Tommy" by The Who.

I have the Mo Fi CD (ripped lossless to hard drive) and the SongTowers (and the rest of the system, obviously) sound incredible. I never knew this was recorded so well.....

And these are Jim's "entry level" floorstanders? I am still amazed by them.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 2 Aug 2009, 01:36 am
TJC712,

I just finished listening to Eric Claptons Back Home CD/DVD-A. Its well recorded for the most part, and the material is new to me and very nice. The cd I bought is a normal cd on one side and a DVD-A on the other side. On the DVD-A side there are 2 choices for audio, in real DVD-Audio (both 2 channel & 5.1 surround) using 24 bit sampled at 48khz. Its very interesting to compare the 2 sound tracks.

This is the newest stuff from Clapton in some years, its really good.

I would not place it in the high end demo class, but a good representative of Eric Clapton and his latest material.

All the best
Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: TJC712 on 2 Aug 2009, 10:59 pm
Glad you enjoyed. My brother lent it to me and I found it to have a very nice sound. I was also just starting to listen to stuff on the new gear so maybe a bit biased. Plus as you mentioned, its nice to hear different stuff from guys that have been around forever. That whole cd has really grown on me, but have always been a fan of EC. Keep listening....    Tim 
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 3 Aug 2009, 12:39 am
Tim,

I listened to the 5.1 tracks and thoroughly enjoyed the entire album, but this thread was started looking for those really great 2 ch CD's that you would use to show off your stereo..

On the other hand me and others are looking for the best recordings of past artists from time to time and this is a good one for Eric Clapton for sure.

I find that really great 2 ch recordings on my SongTowers at times feel like we are in a 5.1 environment....they image that well with good recordings. its these recordings that I am looking for, but I am always looking for the best of any artist as well.

What I have discovered is that there are so many variations or recordings over time and knowing which one to obtain is very important.....

All the best
Alex
 :D
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: TJC712 on 3 Aug 2009, 01:28 am
I know one of the recent posts mentioned a Royskopp CD. I have to say that the track "Remind Me" (of Geico Caveman going through airport fame) sounds great through the ST's. I had to listen a few times.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: TJC712 on 3 Aug 2009, 01:33 am
Alex:

I just want to throw out a belated (& long overdue) "thank You" for starting this thread. I want you to know that none other than Jim Salk himself, pointed me to this thread back when you first started it. We were talking about tunes worthy of a demo disk when he pointed me to your thread. Another thanks to the many folks posting suggestions since I've picked up some mighty fine "listening material" through the process. Hope it continues on forever!
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 3 Aug 2009, 10:50 pm
Tim,

Thanks to you and all that have contributed,  I too have expanded my listening venue and am really glad that we started this thread, lots of them get lost in the ether, but this should be one that continously grows over time.

Nels...Only found one on Ebay used for $90. So I have a normal 2ch + DVD-A coming instead.

Also I listened to Bob James "Ivory Coast" and this is a really good CD to listen and demo...Kirk Whalum is on this cd several times and his playing is 'razor' sharp...on less stellar speakers this can be very abrasive, bit its a good test for any speaker.

Oprheus..is my favorite. Wide dynamic range. Its 8:35 in length and you need to listen to the entire cut, turned up HIGH  aa   This is not the normal 2-3 min per cut...takes awhile to appreciate the entire content...but well worth it.

I have several other Bob James material and will add to this post if they are great as well.

All the best
Alex


Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 4 Aug 2009, 12:24 am
Ok,

I said in the last post I would add to the Bob James list but I thought this recommendation deserves is own little post!!

Bob James & David Sandborn,  "Double Vision".

WOW, Simple yet Exotic, Wide Open, Wonderful Soundstage, Romantic, Sensual, Perfect Jazz for Any Occaision....this is why I started listening to this type of Jazz in the first place a long time ago!

From an Amazon poster "Al Jarreau joins Bob James and David Sanborn for a cover of Lenny Welch's "Since I Fell For You", one song that will make you fall for this album"...

This cut is plain AWESOME...play it loud Sam....and smile, what a wonderful soundstage with such great nuances.

Play the tracks (especially #6) to the end some of the most exciting stuff happens in the last 60 seconds of the tracks end.

This dates back to 1986 and can be had for .79 cents on Amazon (used) to 4.16 for new...what a steal!!

Go get this one , go right now!!

All the best
Alex
 :D :D :D

Special Note: David Sanborn can really play the Sax VERY WELL!!   aa
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: TJC712 on 4 Aug 2009, 01:00 am
I agree with your Bob James assessments. Some great stuff that I haven't listened to in quite some time. Funny you bring this up because I just ordered the dvd "An evening with Fourplay, Vols 1 & 2 last night. I now run the HT fronts thru my 2 channel gear utilizing the HT bypass. Cool stuff.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: lonewolfny42 on 4 Aug 2009, 06:28 am
Alex...
Quote
Special Note: David Sanborn can really play the Sax VERY WELL!!

Since you mentioned sax....how about a little baritone sax in the rock vein... :wink:

Morphine - "Cure For Pain".... (http://www.amazon.com/Cure-Pain-Morphine/dp/B0000009OP/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1249367060&sr=1-1).... 8)
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: BobM on 4 Aug 2009, 12:30 pm
Here's a disk I was turned onto last year. It's kind of electronica, but with a distinctive percussion bent, due to the participation of Trilok Gurtu. It's called "Miles_Gurtu":
http://www.amazon.com/Miles_Gurtu-Robert-Miles/dp/B0001AVZ5S/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1249388875&sr=1-1 (http://www.amazon.com/Miles_Gurtu-Robert-Miles/dp/B0001AVZ5S/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1249388875&sr=1-1)

Did anyone mention Esperanza's debut album yet?
http://www.amazon.com/Esperanza-Spalding/dp/B0014HC56K/ref=pd_sim_m_6 (http://www.amazon.com/Esperanza-Spalding/dp/B0014HC56K/ref=pd_sim_m_6)

Or Roy Hargrove (either of these 2):
http://www.amazon.com/Hargrove-Quintet-Robinson-Clayton-Coleman/dp/B0016OMFPW/ref=pd_sim_m_1 (http://www.amazon.com/Hargrove-Quintet-Robinson-Clayton-Coleman/dp/B0016OMFPW/ref=pd_sim_m_1)
http://www.amazon.com/Moment-Roy-Hargrove-Strings/dp/B00004SC6T/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1249389004&sr=1-5 (http://www.amazon.com/Moment-Roy-Hargrove-Strings/dp/B00004SC6T/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1249389004&sr=1-5)

Bob
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: K Shep on 4 Aug 2009, 04:46 pm
Here's a disk I was turned onto last year. It's kind of electronica, but with a distinctive percussion bent, due to the participation of Trilok Gurtu. It's called "Miles_Gurtu":
http://www.amazon.com/Miles_Gurtu-Robert-Miles/dp/B0001AVZ5S/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1249388875&sr=1-1 (http://www.amazon.com/Miles_Gurtu-Robert-Miles/dp/B0001AVZ5S/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1249388875&sr=1-1)



Bob


Great recommendation Bob I am a fan of Robert Miles.  I gave Miles_Gutru a quick listen and it sounds great.  My order is placed with Amazon. 

Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: K Shep on 4 Aug 2009, 04:54 pm
I know one of the recent posts mentioned a Royskopp CD. I have to say that the track "Remind Me" (of Geico Caveman going through airport fame) sounds great through the ST's. I had to listen a few times.

IMO each Royskopp CD sounds different.  Melody AM is my favorite and "Remind Me" is their most recognized song.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: K Shep on 5 Aug 2009, 12:38 am
Alex,

This is one of the best recorded CD's I have heard. 

Seal - Best: 1991-2004 (2 CD & DVD Audio) [ENHANCED]
http://www.amazon.com/Best-1991-2004-CD-DVD-Audio/dp/B00063F8BW/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1249432405&sr=1-4

I puchased my copy from Amazon. If you like Seal it has originals and acoustic recordings too.  It is a must have IMO.  The CD cover calls it "Advance Resolution Stereo" and "Advance Resolution Surround"

Kirk
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: TJC712 on 5 Aug 2009, 02:59 am
Here's a disk I was turned onto last year. It's kind of electronica, but with a distinctive percussion bent, due to the participation of Trilok Gurtu. It's called "Miles_Gurtu":
http://www.amazon.com/Miles_Gurtu-Robert-Miles/dp/B0001AVZ5S/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1249388875&sr=1-1 (http://www.amazon.com/Miles_Gurtu-Robert-Miles/dp/B0001AVZ5S/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1249388875&sr=1-1)

Did anyone mention Esperanza's debut album yet?
http://www.amazon.com/Esperanza-Spalding/dp/B0014HC56K/ref=pd_sim_m_6 (http://www.amazon.com/Esperanza-Spalding/dp/B0014HC56K/ref=pd_sim_m_6)

Or Roy Hargrove (either of these 2):
http://www.amazon.com/Hargrove-Quintet-Robinson-Clayton-Coleman/dp/B0016OMFPW/ref=pd_sim_m_1 (http://www.amazon.com/Hargrove-Quintet-Robinson-Clayton-Coleman/dp/B0016OMFPW/ref=pd_sim_m_1)
http://www.amazon.com/Moment-Roy-Hargrove-Strings/dp/B00004SC6T/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1249389004&sr=1-5 (http://www.amazon.com/Moment-Roy-Hargrove-Strings/dp/B00004SC6T/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1249389004&sr=1-5)

Bob

Very fond of Esperanza's CD. Very refreshing, eclectic mix of tracks that I find well recorded. Although I've heard Roy Hargrove's music (and enjoy), I don't own any of his stuff. I will order these and take a listen.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: lonewolfny42 on 5 Aug 2009, 05:55 am
Here's a disk I was turned onto last year. It's kind of electronica, but with a distinctive percussion bent, due to the participation of Trilok Gurtu. It's called "Miles_Gurtu":
http://www.amazon.com/Miles_Gurtu-Robert-Miles/dp/B0001AVZ5S/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1249388875&sr=1-1 (http://www.amazon.com/Miles_Gurtu-Robert-Miles/dp/B0001AVZ5S/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1249388875&sr=1-1)



Bob


Great recommendation Bob I am a fan of Robert Miles.  I gave Miles_Gutru a quick listen and it sounds great.  My order is placed with Amazon.

Bob is on the money here Alex...its a very good CD...
One of the N.Y. Raver's (Mike/mfsoa) brought it to our attention at a Rave at Audio Connection...everyone present asked what was playing...good stuff. :wink:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: TJC712 on 5 Aug 2009, 03:31 pm
I agree with your Bob James assessments. Some great stuff that I haven't listened to in quite some time. Funny you bring this up because I just ordered the dvd "An evening with Fourplay, Vols 1 & 2 last night. I now run the HT fronts thru my 2 channel gear utilizing the HT bypass. Cool stuff.

Arrived this morning... just listened to the first 2 tracks... buy the DVD.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 6 Aug 2009, 12:13 am
Hello,

I am not a real electronic music fan or person, but I always am open to at least trying new music etc..

I just got thru listening to: Royksopp: Melody A.M.

Well.....its not my cup of tea, but its a good demo cd  if you like this type of music.

I would describe this as electic and or techno-disco synthesized music.

Its not that recognizable or familiar but it does go all over the place high  to low etc and does give your system a good workout.

Its funny way back when....when New Age Jazz started appearing in the 80's I really liked  that..and this is just that gone further off in that area...

Maybe in my new old age my tastes are getting more conservative "wheres that Sinatra record???"

In all seriousness thanks for the recommendation, you never know unless you try things new if something is enjoyable to your or not.

I have a few more electronic recommendations on their way, who knows...I just might really dig one of them..



All the best
Alex
 aa
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: TJC712 on 6 Aug 2009, 01:36 am
OK "old timer" try Harry Allen's I Won't Dance or Harry Allen Meets the John Pizzarelli Trio. Nothing electronic or techno there.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: charmerci on 6 Aug 2009, 06:54 am
I was wondering where this thread went! It moved closer to just right under my nose!  :duh:

For great live big band music (not like your father's early Benny Goodman) - Count Basie - One O'Clock Jump (Don't  :roll: but it's the "cheapo" Laserlight disc.) The sound is unbelievable and the 17 band members play much tighter than most trios. You would never guess that this music was recorded in 1960. Your hard rock friends will be mightily impressed with this one, especially the drumming.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: K Shep on 6 Aug 2009, 05:19 pm
Hello,

I am not a real electronic music fan or person, but I always am open to at least trying new music etc..

I have a few more electronic recommendations on their way, who knows...I just might really dig one of them..

I appreciate your honesty.  IMO the synthetic sound of Electronic is sometimes tiresome.  I also find much of Electronic repetitious.  But I love the beat and an album like Uberzone - Ideology, that I recommended, has beat that I can actually feel while sitting in my listening chair.

I have many more recommendations of well recorded music.  I will specify what style of music it is and keep on sharing.  This a great thread and I am happy to contribute.

Male Vocal
David Gray - White Ladder
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0010VHXO4/ref=ox_ya_oh_product

Kirk
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 7 Aug 2009, 01:33 am
Hello Charmerci!

Gald you found us in the new sticky!! I am glad all the recommendations are on top and wont get lost....there are a lot of really good suggestions throughout this thread.

I will look into the Count Basie suggestion for sure!! Thanks for this one!!
Note: There are several versions of this on Amazon, do you have a specific link for the one you have?

Kirk...

Cool! I ordered the David Gray, sounds like I will like it, hope its well recorded!!  :D

Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: jsalk on 7 Aug 2009, 04:15 am
Alex and everyone...

First of all, thanks for all the great input.  I made this thread a sticky since people are always looking for great recordings and it is sometimes difficult to know what to buy. 

I have purchased so many CD's over the years only to be disappointed when I got them home, I probably purchase fewer than I would if I only knew what to buy.  This thread can be of great value to those who find themselves in the same predicament.

That said, let's say I was to go out and purchase 10 CD's.  I would be looking for the 10 CD's that were the best in terms of sound quality, frequency range, sound staging  and detail.  The music and the performance should be compelling as well.

If you had to live with just 10 CD's that would demonstrate the current state of recording art, which 10 CD's would they be?

In other words, if you feel so inclined, let's see what CD's are on your personal 10-best list.  List away...

- Jim
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: TJC712 on 7 Aug 2009, 04:41 am
Alex and everyone...

First of all, thanks for all the great input.  I made this thread a sticky since people are always looking for great recordings and it is sometimes difficult to know what to buy. 

I have purchased so many CD's over the years only to be disappointed when I got them home, I probably purchase fewer than I would if I only knew what to buy.  This thread can be of great value to those who find themselves in the same predicament.

That said, let's say I was to go out and purchase 10 CD's.  I would be looking for the 10 CD's that were the best in terms of sound quality, frequency range, sound staging  and detail.  The music and the performance should be compelling as well.

If you had to live with just 10 CD's that would demonstrate the current state of recording art, which 10 CD's would they be?

In other words, if you feel so inclined, let's see what CD's are on your personal 10-best list.  List away...

- Jim
I'm out! (Feel like Kramer in the infamous Seinfeld "Master of My Own Domain" episode. This one's impossible for me, personally. The mere thought of trying to isolate just 10 CD's would pretty much make my head explode. I'm afraid that I'd end up in a straight jacket incoherently muttering artists' names, album names, numbers 1 thru 10... in no particular order! Look forward to the attempts of others though!
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: TJC712 on 7 Aug 2009, 04:47 am
Hello Charmerci!

Gald you found us in the new sticky!! I am glad all the recommendations are on top and wont get lost....there are a lot of really good suggestions throughout this thread.

I will look into the Count Basie suggestion for sure!! Thanks for this one!!
Note: There are several versions of this on Amazon, do you have a specific link for the one you have?

Kirk...

Cool! I ordered the David Gray, sounds like I will like it, hope its well recorded!!  :D

Alex

If you guys like the Basie Band, pick up the JVC XRCD version of 88 Basie Street. Little pricey but great sound quality.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: charmerci on 7 Aug 2009, 02:03 pm
Here's the Basie link -

http://www.amazon.com/One-OClock-Jump-Count-Basie/dp/B000001VU3/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1249653135&sr=1-3

50 cents used? $3 new? You can't lose on this one.

As for the 88 Basie St. (rec. 1983) - I've never heard it but jazz performances were so much tighter before the late 60's. My favorite Basie band was the one with Sonny Paine on drums and Eddie Jones on bass. For me, it's music first. I'd rather listen to great performances with mediocre sound than mediocre performances with the musicians in the room. Of course, we're talking here about a thousand shades of gray.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: TJC712 on 7 Aug 2009, 03:26 pm
Here's the Basie link -

http://www.amazon.com/One-OClock-Jump-Count-Basie/dp/B000001VU3/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1249653135&sr=1-3

50 cents used? $3 new? You can't lose on this one.

As for the 88 Basie St. (rec. 1983) - I've never heard it but jazz performances were so much tighter before the late 60's. My favorite Basie band was the one with Sonny Paine on drums and Eddie Jones on bass. For me, it's music first. I'd rather listen to great performances with mediocre sound than mediocre performances with the musicians in the room. Of course, we're talking here about a thousand shades of gray.

That's what makes it so nice when you stumble across recordings that offer both. True gems, indeed!
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 7 Aug 2009, 05:11 pm
I had hopped up on my soapbox several pages ago about the XRCD of "88 Basie Street". If memory serves, Alex (our O.P.) bought the disc and enjoyed it. Good to see more folks that have heard, and recommend this disc. It's one of my top ten. But like Mr. TJC712, I'd have a hard time creating a list of my top ten.

Not sure if I mentioned it in a previous post, but Lyle Lovett have several great CDs as far as sound quality is concerned. "Joshua Judges Ruth" comes to mind, but there are others.

Great thread fellas. Glad to see it become a sticky.
Bob
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: BobM on 7 Aug 2009, 05:25 pm
I had hopped up on my soapbox several pages ago about the XRCD of "88 Basie Street".

Ahh, but it still doesn't beat the vinyl version from Acoustic Sounds, especially the 45 RPM version.  :notworthy:

There's also Stevie Ray Vaughan's Couldn't Stand the Weather, especially the track "Tin Pan Alley". But that too is shamed by the vinyl IMO.

I've found Joe Zawinul's albums to have really good sound and music on them, in a uniquely Zawinul type of way, especially "Vienna Nights".

Searching the Eurpean jazz theme I can also recommend Eberhard Weber's "Endless Days" (as well as mostly all the rest of his catalogue too).

ECM has some very nice stuff in general. Very well recorded and usually excellent music. You can't go wrong here (but again, the vinyl does sound superior).
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: stlrman on 7 Aug 2009, 07:27 pm
Jim,
10 best reference cd's. (hmmm..)
 My reference collection of cd's is getting pretty large and I would like to share as many as I can over the next few weeks.
With that being said , I just purchased about 10 SACD's and I would probibly pick any of these over any cd to demo for a friend to listen what is possible as far as sound quality and my systems outstanding attributes.  I started a thread over on the high resolution circle for those interested.
I plan on buying as many SACD's in the future as I can afford.
The cd catalog is so much more expansive than SACD's. It also more fun , as I can walk down the St. to a great used cd store and pick up great jazz, classical and rock for $2.50 and up.
 1. David Sanborn :  Upfront         This is an outstading album and every cut is great !! There are many cuts on this album that really show off base, base slam ,and dynamics galore and of course saxaphone and highs . If your speakers are bright with horns you will find out fast on a couple of tracks, there are one or two that I skip sometimes. Test tracks are 1,2,4,5,8,9 for me
 2.&3. Cassandra Wilson : New Moon Daughter and Blue Light Till dawn   Both of these albums are gems and very close to perfect as far as music and sound are concerned.They are recorded on Blue Note Records.  ( every blue note cd  that I own is of audiophile quality )( BLue Light cd on amazon for 76 cents)
Blue Light Till Dawn   is a master piece and very well recorded   ( my test tracks are song two  Come Into My Kitchen , if you play this cut to an non-audiophile person and they don't come away understanding what this hobby is about..  they will . If they are not slack jawed then your system blows.  Bass notes are long and way cool , bass slam from drum kit , powerful acoustic strings, Cassandras' voice ,and just a tremendous jazz -blues song make this a perfect test song. Other great test track I enjoy (tack 7: Sankofa , all voice harmony) tracks 8 and 9 Redbone for drums and funk song.  (track 10 is tupelo honey , her version is a stunner and sound throught this cd is amazing ) Honestly almost all of the 12 tracks can be used for demo.
New Moon Daughter    is a master piece and very well recorded You can use all songs on this cd to demo a system in my mind. My favorite for demo songs are 1,2,3,and 4 (voice,strings,bass should be powerful ,deep and tuneful ) but choose your favorites. Once againall twelve tracks on here are epic in both recording and music.  These two Cassandra cd's are perfect listening !!
 4. The Hunter  By Jennifer Warnes   manty are very familiar with this cd and Famous Blue Riancoat
The first time I heard track one Rock You Gently , I played the intro, the first maybe 5 seconds , over 15 times , as I could not believe the sound and slam . I remember listening  and saying, "this is how a cd SHOULD sound ! "  When you hear this cd ,and you should own it, it should be in Aha moment. It also may make 90 % of your cd collection sound inferior. This album is so well recorded that every cut except 6 The Whole Of The Moon can be used as a demo track. My favorites are 1,2,4,7,8       An audiophile must have cd !!
Rob Wasserman  (bass player extrodinare , has played In the Jerry Garcia Band I think atleast in some acoustic relation to Jerry Garcia)
 5. Rob Wasserman   DUETS     I am going to say that many if all of the tracks on here are super well recorded and make good demos for one reason or another   If you like music and well recorded music BUY this cd. Obviously many of the tracks are awesome for bass (duh) ,but also for voice, dynamics,  If the cd does not sound good on your system, sell your system  Lol :icon_lol:
Seriously, duets include Ricky Lee Jones, Aaron Neville on opening track ,Boby McFerrin, Lou Reed, Jennifer Warnes, Dan Hicks, Stepane Grappelli awesome Over The Rainbow, Cheryl Bentyne
I consider this a must have cd for sound and astonishingly great music and complilations . This compilation should lead you to many fine musicians if you haven't heard of a few. Or just play this one 5 thousand times.  :D
 6. Rob Wasserman :  TRIOS
As with DUETS , Trios   every cut on here is of highest sound quality and the album is a force in great songs and musicians collaborating to create a work of art . I will list only some of the collaborating artist and not by trios specifically.  (Brian Wison, Branford Marsalis, Elvis Costello, Bob Weir,Jerry Garcia, Neil Young, Chris Whitley and Les Claypool, Bruce Hornsby, Edie Brickell, Willie Dixon, and others. Awesome album/achievement !! All cuts are demos, pick your favorites
Rob Wasserman:  SPACE ISLAND   Rob Wasserman understands how to engineer a wonderful sounding cd !!         Space Island is a different beest then Duets or Trios      This is Rob's insane bass both in sound quality and execution , mixed with samples ,some beats ,a tabla player and singer. I would call this a fusion album.   Test tracks for me are  3,5,6,7,8 and 11   You may like others better . The sound ,as in all of Rob's albums ,should pin you in your seat. I also consider this a masterwork album. Some people may find it weird , I enjoy every song ! and I am not really into this type of fusion sound. The sound is great, and the song's arrangements are top notch in my opinion.
7. Hugh Masekala  Hope    What an insanely great album this is !!!  Hugh should be a world heritage site himself! :thumb:
Sound is reference quality throughout. If you have some extra dough and have never heard of him skip the cd and buy the SACD ( which I have not heard it, but will be buying it, its a pricey one, about 30 bucks) If the SACD is 5 % to 10 %  it is worth it to me ,as this album is so worthy of the best sound available. That being said  "DO NOT BUY THE SACD  !!  lol 8) The sound on this cd is so freakin dynamic,explosive, and crystal clear that there is NO  need to buy the SACD !!! (I'm still buying it ,as their is no need but I want it ! I will report on it in the high resolution cirlcle. lol)       HOPE  is a must have audiophile cd !!
Hugh sings and plays the most amazing trumpet. His solos will lift your your spirit !  I will try to explain the style of his music.   Spiritual , African, Reggae, Big Band, Uplifting !! Holy Sh## , I can't listen in my car anymore , because I often want to pull over and dance and hug God for giving us music. Lol :P Thats how freakin great this album is.   ( Test tracks for me are 1,2,3,4,5,7,11, and 12 is worth the album in itself. ) Sound will test slam,dynamics,highs, bass, coherence, etc. )
More to come.. Enjoy these..
Todd
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Srgtfury on 7 Aug 2009, 09:39 pm
Hi Stlrman,

Could you please list the gear you are using for your assessment?

Thank you very much

Fury
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: TJC712 on 8 Aug 2009, 01:32 am
Hey Stirman.... Wow... impressive post! I will definitely check some of this out. 
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: TJC712 on 8 Aug 2009, 02:26 am
I had hopped up on my soapbox several pages ago about the XRCD of "88 Basie Street". If memory serves, Alex (our O.P.) bought the disc and enjoyed it. Good to see more folks that have heard, and recommend this disc. It's one of my top ten. But like Mr. TJC712, I'd have a hard time creating a list of my top ten.

Not sure if I mentioned it in a previous post, but Lyle Lovett have several great CDs as far as sound quality is concerned. "Joshua Judges Ruth" comes to mind, but there are others.

Great thread fellas. Glad to see it become a sticky.
Bob

Bob:

I just looked back and your post about this Basie XRCD is the reason I bought it! Believe in giving credit where due... thank you for a great recommendation!  Just a little interesting aside... My brother in law (a swing drummer who died recently at the young age of 53) had a very successful big band in NYC.  My younger brother helped him run his music production company. Anyway, when Tony was sometimes unavailable for gigs, Dennis Mackrel (who lives out this way in Woodstock, NY) was always his 1st choice to sit in on drums. My brother pointed out that Dennis Mackrel was the drummer on this Basie XRCD and remembers talking with him about the great sound in the studio that night.  I just played it for my brother a few weeks ago. He loved it.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: stlrman on 8 Aug 2009, 03:50 am
Thanks TJ,
you should check out all of these at some point if you can. If you dont agree that that a cd is fantastic and sounds amazing , just mail me the cd and I will give you your money back. :wink:      No really , these are all fantastic music, of audiophile sound quality.
In case some don't want to read my long winded review I will list just the recommeded albums here  :
 1. David Sanborn :  Upfront 
2.& 3. Cassandra Wilson : New Moon Daughter and Blue Light Till Dawn
 The Hunter  By Jennifer Warnes   
 4. Rob Wasserman   DUETS     
 6. Rob Wasserman :  TRIOS
 7. Rob Wasserman:  SPACE ISLAND
8. Hugh Masekala  Hope   :thumb: aa
For a much more in depth review , read  my previous post on each one of these Audiophile Masterpieces
Much more to come as I will try to review the cream of my  reference crop of cd's


Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: TJC712 on 8 Aug 2009, 04:12 am
So you've had good experience with SACD's, HYRBID-SACD's?
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: lonewolfny42 on 8 Aug 2009, 04:45 am
Quote
If you had to live with just 10 CD's that would demonstrate the current state of recording art, which 10 CD's would they be?

In other words, if you feel so inclined, let's see what CD's are on your personal 10-best list.  List away...

1....Kenny G -"Live"   Samples... (http://www.amazon.com/Kenny-G-Live/dp/B000002VH2/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1249704729&sr=1-1)

2....Yoko Ono - "Fly"   Samples... (http://www.amazon.com/Fly-Yoko-Ono/dp/B0000009RI/ref=sr_1_6?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1249704856&sr=1-6)

3....Vanilla Ice - "To the Extreme"   Samples... (http://www.amazon.com/Extreme-Vanilla-Ice/dp/B00000DRBV/ref=ntt_mus_ep_wlb_dpt)

4...Mariah Carey - "Glitter"  Samples... (http://www.amazon.com/Glitter-Mariah-Carey/dp/B00005MAWM/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1249705256&sr=1-1)

5.... Jive Bunny - "Rock N Roll Dance Party"  Samples... (http://www.amazon.com/Rock-N-Roll-Dance-Party/dp/B00000717B/ref=sr_1_21?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1249705583&sr=1-21)

6....Pat Boone - "In a Metal Mood: No More Mr. Nice Guy"  Samples... (http://www.amazon.com/Metal-Mood-More-Mr-Nice/dp/B000005KOE/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1249705828&sr=1-1)

7....William Hung - "Inspiration"   Samples... (http://www.amazon.com/Inspiration-Bonus-DVD-William-Hung/dp/B0001V1M64/ref=ntt_mus_ep_wlb_dpt)

8....Tiny Tim - "God Bless Tiny Tim"   Samples... (http://www.amazon.com/God-Bless-Tiny-Tim/dp/B001BS4RFE/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1249706239&sr=1-1)

9....The Archies - "Sugar Sugar: Greatest Hits"   Samples... (http://www.amazon.com/Sugar-Greatest-Hits-Archies/dp/B0013XW9Y8/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1249706359&sr=1-2)

and last but not least.....what an album... :inlove:

10.....Mary Schneider - "Yodeling the Classics: The Complete Collection"   Samples... (http://www.amazon.com/Yodeling-Classics-Collection-Leroy-Anderson/dp/B000OHZJFA/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1249706512&sr=1-1)

Have fun....and enjoy.... :beer:
   
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: stlrman on 8 Aug 2009, 05:47 am
Fury,
Hope you liked the review of those reference cd's. More to come.. and including one here in this post to keep it legal.
I am new to this hobby, only about a year and half in, and I am damn close to being where I want to be as far as the sound of my system is concerned. 
I do not claim to have an amazing system . It does sound wonderful to me! All of my non- audiophile friends have been slack jawed, one woman today was almost in tears when listening to various SACD's . I have two friends who thought I was an ass####  when I told them what I spent on my sytem. (It only retails 7 grand , I paid about 1/2 of this through audiogon and factory direct etc. ) After less than 10 minutes the two friends nodded their heads and clearly understood my passion for audio, and why I "wasted" all of this money .  lol
I will give you a short review of my sytems attributes as I see them, and list all components. It is a pretty simple system.
Music sounds super detailed!! symbols , high hat ,triangles all have unbelievable clarity, sparkle and shimmer.
Drums hit hard, sound powerful , deep . just perfect. MUCH MUCH more of all this with "Quantum Destroyer" homemade subwoofer by a friend , in place.  (More on The Quantum Destroyer in components )
Midrange voice both male and female sound, lush, sweet, liquid
Highs of Sax, trumpet , all brass sound crystal clear and not etchy
The speakers and system are very musical ,while being ultra detailed, and powerful as hell with subwoofer. PRAT :  Pace , rhythm and timing all sound right on .
Honestly , I am still figuring out soundstage and imaging ,and plan to have a some people come in to listen. To me soundstage is wide and instuments well placed , I can sit in the listening seat all night, but I am sure they can be better dialed in.
Fury.. Here are my humble components

 Speakers : SP Tech  Minis (read  about them in their circle if you like )  Works of art on the eyes ! Waveguide technology.  Truley the sound can be compared to the best studio monitors out there.  Crosses over super low at 600Hz , base down to 40 Hz.  Detailed !! Musical !! Astonishing !!
 Amplifier : Musical Fidelity A5 (250 watts ) solid state ,clean,pure,detailed and musical and freakin powerful !! (see 6 moons review )

 Subwoofer: Quantum Destroyer ( Homemade , its freakin HUGE !! 39 inches high, 60 inches around, about 3/4 the size of a hot water heater  :duh: :drool: ) ,built by Chris  ( based on 12 inch Rythmic subwoofer , 370 watt amp. Servo Technology, It is sealed and downward firing ) I read about servo technology on their site,  and the designer of the homemade sub explained to me, that this technology, is what makes the woofer stop on a dime.  The sub has been measured    FLAT TO  14 Hz !!!!!!!!!   certain bass notes on Dead Can Dance cd vibrate the entire living room.  Low bass, does not make great bass, I know. This subwoofer is seemless in the system , crossed over at 60 Hz, it sounds very musical , and super fast !!      Need I say , powerful !!!!!!!!!  :thumb: :lol: aa      Listening to Blue Man Group dvd ,when the climax hits on the first song , its like a freakin Sonic Explosion has hit the entire apartment !! If your sitting next to your friend on the couch , you just look at each other and say, "what the F### !! " and laugh. I have not tried the sub for movies yet. lol....  I only added my first sub a few weeks ago ,and it has taken my system to a way way higher level of what I can listen to at high volumes, with impact that makes your head spin. It has made the speakers sound more open, detailed, and  just better. Sounstage vastly increased and got way deeper !! The speakers sound great alone !, but the system difference, is night and day.

 Cd Player : Oppo 980h      Plays SACD's and cd's sound fantastic. Many great reviews on this player. I may try a dac at some point, to augment the sound, to see what happens.

 Sony hd Radio xdr etc.   I can listen to the  hd radio all day if need be.
Interconnect : rat shack Monster THX  from amp to cd
Speaker wire :  Analysis Oval Nine
I'd be happy to send a picture if anyone send me a personal email here.

 Reference cd : Micky Hart:   PLANET DRUM ( Former Drummer from The Grateful Dead )  (gold addition I think )  Want to hear how african drums mixed in with all sorts of chanting and drum instuments of all varieties of sounds?  Freakin Awesome that how !! :thumb: 
(African, Spiritual, Spacey, New Age, POWERFUL ) Every single track can be considered a demo trac !!  Will test  Bass Drums,  Drum Slam, Dynamics , woofers, subwoofers etc. This cd is VERY well recorded and the music OUTSTANDING !! , I would say the sound is pretty close to SACD . I listened to this entire cd ,over an hour I think, at 100 decibels peaking at about 105 ,with no strain of sound from the cd ,or my system. AWESOME !!!! (some ear strain  :nono: )
I highly recommend this cd !! With the right system, or right "cocktails" , this cd should and will be a total out of body experience.
Todd
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: charmerci on 8 Aug 2009, 05:22 pm
Geez I hope that William Hung recommendation was a joke because -even in less than the 30 second samples - that album was an insult to good sound. Completely unlistenable no matter how accurate the sound.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: K Shep on 8 Aug 2009, 06:43 pm
Here's a disk I was turned onto last year. It's called "Miles_Gurtu"
Bob

I took your advice, listened to the intro on Amazon and purchased the album.  The CD arrived and I listened to most of it last night.  I can actually feel the music thru my system.  This is one of the best recordings I have heard.  The bass on this CD really shows me what my SongTower's are capable of.

Thank you BobM
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: ted_b on 8 Aug 2009, 06:55 pm
Geez I hope that William Hung recommendation was a joke because -even in less than the 30 second samples - that album was an insult to good sound. Completely unlistenable no matter how accurate the sound.

If you are calling that William Hung album a joke, then you must not like any on Chris's (Lonewolf's) list! 







 :D
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: charmerci on 8 Aug 2009, 07:58 pm
Geez I hope that William Hung recommendation was a joke because -even in less than the 30 second samples - that album was an insult to good sound. Completely unlistenable no matter how accurate the sound.

If you are calling that William Hung album a joke, then you must not like any on Chris's (Lonewolf's) list! 

 :D

Yeah, well let's just say you won't find me spending an afternoon listening to all of them.  :shake:
(In fact, I'd like to meet the person that could do that - outside of Lonewolf - and I'd even be surprised if HE could do it! Well, without serious psychological repercussions!  :roll:)
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Art_Chicago on 8 Aug 2009, 08:41 pm
Geez I hope that William Hung recommendation was a joke because -even in less than the 30 second samples - that album was an insult to good sound. Completely unlistenable no matter how accurate the sound.
+1, but this might be a pretty blunt way to put it, IMO.

Here's a disk I was turned onto last year. It's called "Miles_Gurtu"
Bob

I took your advice, listened to the intro on Amazon and purchased the album.  The CD arrived and I listened to most of it last night.  I can actually feel the music thru my system.  This is one of the best recordings I have heard.  The bass on this CD really shows me what my SongTower's are capable of.

Thank you BobM

Hey so did I  :thumb:. Listening right now, and it is awesome. I was not sure if gonna like the music, but it is great -- some pieces remind Robert Fripp's style, but in a more listenable way.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: lonewolfny42 on 8 Aug 2009, 11:23 pm
Geez I hope that William Hung recommendation was a joke because -even in less than the 30 second samples - that album was an insult to good sound. Completely unlistenable no matter how accurate the sound.

If you are calling that William Hung album a joke, then you must not like any on Chris's (Lonewolf's) list! 







 :D

What.... you don't like my selections.... :o :nono:



Well....neither do I .....I was just having some fun. :jester:

But think....these were major releases....what were they thinking ??? :duh:

I'd love to take a few of them into an audio retailer....and give them a spin for an audition....wonder how fast they would be to shut it down..... :rotflmao:

I do have a better set of selections....but it is hard to pick ten when you have thousands... :?

Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: charmerci on 9 Aug 2009, 12:07 am
Well....neither do I .....I was just having some fun. :jester:


 :nono: :roll: Whew! My sanity has been restored! :thumb:

Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: lonewolfny42 on 9 Aug 2009, 12:10 am
Well....neither do I .....I was just having some fun. :jester:


 :nono: :roll: Whew! My sanity has been restored! :thumb:

In your opinion....which samples sounded the worst to you ? :scratch:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 9 Aug 2009, 12:48 am
Jim,

Nice to hear from you!

So you want a list of 10 cds that exemplify the best of todays recording technology and make your feet move!!  :D or whatever other body parts etc...

I have been off for a few days and the thread has grown once again with a few more recommendations..

Please remember this thread is about 2 ch cd's that you would use to really show off your speakers etc....not SACD or DVD-A or 5.1 stuff...even though I have and enjoy that..there are lots of threads on this type of source material already out there.

This not an equipment thread etc...its ok to share what your stuff is to some degree but there are other threads for this as well.

I dont want this great thread to stray from the original intent...that is to help identify the best of the best in 2 ch cd's.

With that said thanks to all the posts in the past few days..... lots of good stuff.

Jim, give me a few days to really think about this one and I will post my 10 best cd's....

The hard part in your request is the "The music and the performance should be compelling as well"...This will be open to interpretation...some will like the style (jazz, symphony, Blues etc) and others will not...but lets see what happens...

Back At Ya Later!
All the best
Alex
 aa
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: K Shep on 9 Aug 2009, 12:55 am
Kirk...

I ordered the David Gray, hope its well recorded!!  :D

Alex

All of my recommendations will be what I consider well recorded.  The CD's that I order that turn out to be poor recordings end up in the bottom of my stack.  Not to be shared. 

Female Vocal
Eva Cassidy - Songbird
http://www.amazon.com/Songbird-Eva-Cassidy/dp/B000006AKD/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1249779209&sr=1-1

Its a classic, you may own it.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: K Shep on 9 Aug 2009, 01:17 am
I will work on my 10 best list, which like Alex will include my favorite Genre's.  The difficulty I will have is recommending albums that "demonstrate the current state of recording art".  What I will be able to provide is a list that sounds great on my system.  My taste in music is growing now that I have what I consider a good system and this thread is helping with the selection process.  I like Jim have been disappionted with many of the CD's I have purchased. 
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: yooper on 9 Aug 2009, 02:54 am
Holy moly Chris :rotflmao:

I haven't been around the circle for awhile (months) and when I visited this thread and read your last list of recommendation I thought to myself.. "oh no, poor guy has seriously lost it...I wonder what happened?"  I was actually going to search your posting history looking for answers.

Ya got me! :oops:

Mark

 



Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: charmerci on 9 Aug 2009, 09:49 am
Well....neither do I .....I was just having some fun. :jester:


 :nono: :roll: Whew! My sanity has been restored! :thumb:

In your opinion....which samples sounded the worst to you ? :scratch:

I hope Alex and others don't mind giving my opinion - I'm not trying to hijack this thread -but where else can we put this for now...

Well, I guess since the title heading is "Outstanding  Demo CD's etc...." doesn't distinguish between outstandingly bad CD's.... :D  Some things are so bad that they are funny but others are so bad that they're just  :roll: bad! I can easily say that the Hung CD is really unlistenable. Most of the rest have some level of competence though the Yoko CD (Do you actually own all these CD's???) is interesting because if she's being serious then it is a joke but if she's trying to be funny or not serious - then it's good because some of the songs are very funny. (I'm rather partial to Toilet Piece.)

Some of the Tiny Tim's songs (The Vibrato Monster escapes!!!) are a laugh riot - I'm tempted to buy some. I mean his Stairway to Heaven and cha-cha version of Hey Jude off of his Girl album are just too funny for words.

Well, I could write a whole treatise on the psychology of some of these singers but I'll stop here.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 9 Aug 2009, 02:10 pm
Hello,
Ok Guys...and Gals...

Way too much time on this sidetrack and this takes away from the original intent to identify those great 2 ch cds...its really been very obvious that from the beginning I have been looking for the best of the best including styles of music I do not like...I like trying new stuff and going from there. Read this as not outstandingly "bad"  cds... :nono:

If you really think that a Tiny Tim cd is very well recorded, has a very wide dynamic range, and has a compelling performance and represents the best in the industry fine. But the operative words are "YOU" "REALLY" "THINK".......Then post it. I would hope not....

If you want some fun  :lol: .... then someone that has the time should start a thread for outstandingly BAD cds...I mean this is a positive tone...it does have some merit on what to really avoid if you get my drift...so lets get back to the real gems...

Jim I am working on "my" list...I also thought how much harder this request is because there are several cds where not all the tracks do not live up to the overall standard...but we will work thru that as well...

This is why the demo discs that many of you have are so popular because they have a few tracks from several cds..there are very few cds that I have that really are totally 'outstanding' in all aspects. But thats the purist in me. So we will pick the best 10 cds we have or are aware of..hoping at least that they are head and shoulders above those ones we buy and then wonder why??? :wink:

K Shep... I have Eva Cassidy's "Time After Time" and " Imagine" but do not have the one you mentioned. I will look in to this as well. Thanks for the post!!

All The Best

Alex aa

Note: I do have a sense of  humor!  :wink:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Don_S on 9 Aug 2009, 03:40 pm
Alex,  Of all the Eva Cassidy CDs, my vote for the best recorded is Live at Blues Alley.   Favorite track:  "Stormy Monday"
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: TJC712 on 9 Aug 2009, 04:21 pm
Don't know if anyone's mentioned already (if so, my props, this thread has grown to where it's too difficult going back and checking!), but was just listening to Ellington's Blues in Orbit... certainly woth the investment if one likes jazzy blues.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 9 Aug 2009, 05:36 pm
Hey Don...Thanks for the piece of information...I will listen to that!  :D

I am re-listening to a bunch of CDs that are listed in this thread...wow what a list...

I have 'my list' down to 16 or so and am trying to pick out my best 10.

Be back later!
Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 9 Aug 2009, 06:54 pm
Jim...et al...

Sorry not just ten!! 15 on my list and a few more that could easily be there...and so many more that are great as well. Maybe the best "20" would be a better list!! (or easier to select).

Most of these are singular artists with some exceptions and this list will change for me as I am sure it will for others. I have so many other great demo cuts from Chis and others but have not to get or explore them. There are other selections that are 'explosive' and very compelling as well. For me these are very well done, maybe not as explosive in nature but make me smile a lot. But they are compelling to me in different ways.

Crisp, Clear, Imaging, The Artist and the Words...Dynamic Range etc.

You notice there are not ANY classical selections, not that there they dont exist, just because this area is not my cup of tea.

Jennifer Warnes "The Hunter"
Holly Cole " Best of"
Norah Jones "Come Away With Me"
James Newton Howard and Friends
Dave Grusin's "Discovered Again "
Linda Ronstadt with Nelson Riddle Orchestra..... "Round Midnight".....
Diana Krall - "Love Scenes  "
Nils Lofgren - 'Acoustic Live'
Blue Rodeo's Five Days in July.
Vienna Teng - Waking Hour
Alison Krauss + Union Station Live (many more of her cds as well).
Wynton Marsalis's "The Magic Hour".
Damien Rice Live at Fingerprints Warts and All
Patricia Barber Live A Fortnight in France
Lyle Lovette's "Joshua Judges Ruth

All the Best
Alex

 aa
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: K Shep on 11 Aug 2009, 01:24 am
Alex,

I enjoy female vocalists and appears you do too.  One of my latest additions is 19 year old British singer/songwriter Adele.  Her album 19 is a mix of Blues/R&B/Soul.  And of course, it is a great recording.

Adele - 19
http://www.amazon.com/19-Adele/dp/B0018QOIXU/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1249953359&sr=1-1
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 11 Aug 2009, 01:50 am
Kirk,

I got the David Gray selection today but have not had a chance to listen to it so I might have a male vocalist as a favorite demo!!  :D

Yes I do enjoy female voice...starting way back 'when' with Joni Mitchell.

But the few male vocalists on my list I have not known for very long...its just in this past 6 months or so from recommendations from posters in this thread.

The Damien Rice cd is what I would call 'exceptional'...the languge is a little strong but the recording and voice quality to me is really extremly well done.

So most of the female selections are based first on the overall quality of the cd and its just that I have mostly female artisits in my collection

Most of the male artists in my collection seem to be blowing horns or playing instruments and not singing. I do like several male artists but just do not have any of their material.

I will look in to 19 thanks for the tip!

All the best
Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 11 Aug 2009, 02:07 am
As far as male vocal (and piano) as concerned, Jamie Cullum is very good. Reminds me of a young Harry Connick Jr.
As far as sound quality is concerned, the album "Twentysomething" is very good from what I recall. But it's been awhile since I've listened to it.
I'm sure you've heard the song, "These are the days". Great stuff.

Bob
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: K Shep on 11 Aug 2009, 02:48 am
Alex,
I can't think of a Male Vocalist that doesn't either play piano, guitar of brass.  I like Ben Harper - Fight For Your Mind, good recording, but I have listened to a few of his other albums and just have not been inspired to pull the trigger.  Jack Johson has been a favorite of mine for a long time he played the Greek Theater in Berkeley and seeing him live really added to his appeal for me.  Great energy.  I have 3 of his CD's Brushfire Fairytales, In Between Dreams and his latest Sleep Through the Static.  Each are recorded well but Sleep Through the Static sounds the best.  Give'em a listen.  What I do is click on "Listen to samples" under the cover art of an album on Amazon and hear if I like the music.  Most of the CD's will play 30 seconds of each song.  But I'm sure you knew that.
Kirk

Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: K Shep on 11 Aug 2009, 03:03 am
Oh, I wanted to also comment on Joni Mitchell.  An old colleague of mine owned a Linn system, active speakers and a turn table and he invited me to his home for a listen.  I was impressed by the sound (this was 2+ years ago) of a couple of CD's he played.  He then asked if I was a fan of vinyl and I said sure, not knowing what he was asking at the time.  So he pullled out a Joni Mitchell album and shared that it was special.  I am not a fan of Joni Mitchell, but when he played the album, I got chills.  I would swear that Joni was in the room singing to me.  I could get in touch with my old pal and ask him what it was that he played that day, but I haven't.  That was my first real experience with Hi-Fi and I will never forget it.  I didn't run out the next day and buy a system...I ran out 2 years later and took my time to build one.

Kirk
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 11 Aug 2009, 03:20 am
Just listened to my earlier recommendation of the Jamie Cullum. Although it's chock full of great tunes, I'm not so sure I'd call it "outstanding demo quality".
So I'm officially retracting my earlier recommendation.  :oops:

Bob
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: TJC712 on 11 Aug 2009, 05:43 am
A couple of female vocal tracks (older, more obscure) certainly worth a listen... Janice Ian-At Seventeen; Natalie Merchant-Carnival; Joan Armatrading-Love & Affection, Down to Zero; Brenda Russell-Piano in the Dark, Get Here (Joe Sample on keybds); Bonnie Rait-I Can't Make You Love Me; Shirley Horn-Return to Paradise; Rickie Lee Jones-Danny's All Star Joint; Sia-Breathe Me (Six Feet Under Fans?); k.d. Lang-A Kiss to Build a Dream On; Astrud Gilberto-all (not hard when backed by Joao Gilberto, AC Jobim & Stan Getz).
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 11 Aug 2009, 05:46 pm
Hey Bob,

Thanks for the tip....and the rest of you all for the recommendations!

Need to invsetigate Ben Harper as well.

Later
Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 13 Aug 2009, 12:50 am
K Shep!!

David Gray, White Ladder....in one word "WONDERFUL" absolutley a demo pick. It sucked me in and the recording is well done. I dont know this guy but when I listen to him I think I know him.

What a really nice set of songs at such an exceptional level of recording.

For male voice this is in the top ten for sure.

Cant thank you enough for this one...now is there anymore of his music out there at this level...


All the Best
Alex
 aa
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: BobM on 13 Aug 2009, 12:39 pm
Picked up Jennifer Warnes "The Hunter" and would easily recommend this to anyone. She's got elements of both Joni Mitchell and Eva Cassidy, but not a clone of either, if you know what I mean. Apparently vinyl versions of this record are rare and expensive.

Also picked up Basie's One O'clock Jump and, although it sounds good on headphones and has some amazing big band playing on it, it does not hold up to audiiophile quality standards on the main rig. It's an old live recording with substandard recording quality and no "space" to speak of. But the music is fabulous.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 13 Aug 2009, 05:39 pm
Glad you like it Bob, its really very, very good...sounds a little like Amanda McBroom from the old GRP label days.

Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: K Shep on 13 Aug 2009, 10:58 pm
K Shep!!

David Gray, White Ladder....in one word "WONDERFUL" absolutley a demo pick. Cant thank you enough for this one...now is there anymore of his music out there at this level...

Alex
 aa

I'm glad you're enjoying the CD.  White Ladder is the only album I have of his.  Perhaps others my chime in. 

Alex,

Did you ever check out the Seal CD I recommended?  I looked on Amazon and they want $69 used for the darn thing.  I went back and reviewed my order and I paid $34 for it.  The CD contains 3 discs one original recordings, the second acoustic versions of the originals and third a DVD with surround audio I think, I haven't played the DVD at all.  If you can see yourself paying $69 for Seal I would give it a ride...it is one of the best recordings I have.  Let me know.

Kirk
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 13 Aug 2009, 11:11 pm
K Shep...No have not done the Seal thing, the price is a bit steep for me here. I will wait for a better buy.  :D

Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 18 Aug 2009, 12:29 am
Hello,

I just received and listened to:

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000T2PRF2/ref=ox_ya_oh_product

This is a very well done best of Diana Krall..

This is the very best of Diana Krall, Limited Edition. delux edition.
If you only wanted one and the absolute best recording this is it.

Its a 10 out of 10.

Melt in your mouth...you have to have this recording in your collection...and be very careful listening it will seduce you into a world of classics that are timeless...

They just DONT write songs like this anymore!!!

All the best
Alex

Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: K Shep on 18 Aug 2009, 03:05 am
Thank you for the suggestion: Damien Rice Live at Fingerprints Warts and All very well recorded.  This CD is exactly what I hope for, good music, great vocals and wonderful sound.  The 3 dimensional seperation on this CD is exceptional.  Keep them coming.

Kirk
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 18 Aug 2009, 06:07 pm
Kirk,

Yes its in my 'exceptional' category for sure...have to thank one of the earlier posters for this recommendation....

The Diana Krall best of I thought would be mediocre, but it has some live recording and a bonus dvd with PCM 2 ch audio that is a real treat...the song "Temptation" is to die for...

Alex
 aa
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: K Shep on 18 Aug 2009, 07:26 pm
So you play the DVD in your in a Bluray player?  Please explain your set up.

Kirk
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 18 Aug 2009, 07:43 pm
Kirk,

Yes the Oppo BD83 has a nice analog section and it plays stnd def dvds as is the bonus disc in the best of Krall..but the audio is 2 ch pcm.

I just have the Oppo BD83 to a Onkyo 805 receiver to the ST's. Simple. No exotic Dacs, Flac, NAS etc...

But am always thinking of upgrading the receiver to a seperate amp etc...but it sounds so good now!!

Dont want to deviate from the threads intent but there ya go...

Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: K Shep on 18 Aug 2009, 08:44 pm
I am not going to split hairs Alex, but your thread is Outstanding  Demo CD's etc...and you mentioned a bonus DVD with PCM 2 ch audio.  I am not familiar with that format and I am curious how you played the DVD in your system.  I had forgotten that you own the OPPO and use it as your player.  Easy Tiger.  I am on your side, I even said so in my PM to you.

So lets get this thread back on track...I have grown to enjoy Leonard Cohen, this CD is the best recorded I have come across, very good stuff.

Leonard Cohen - Ten New Songs
http://www.amazon.com/Ten-New-Songs-Leonard-Cohen/dp/B00005Q45W/ref=sr_1_10?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1250627999&sr=1-10

Kirk
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: JP78 on 18 Aug 2009, 11:31 pm
alex - thanks for keeping this thread going. i've certainly benefited from several albums as a result.  while not everything is my cup of tea, my rhapsody music service certainly allows me to try before i buy :).

if you haven't already, i'd like to recommend some depeche mode. my favorites are:

- depeche mode: violator
- depeche mode: ultra

also, on a totally different tangent:

- yo yo ma: the back cello suites

in truth, i'm a huge dm fan and just attended their concert with thievery corporation at lollapalooza a couple weeks ago.

k shep - i find my musical tastes align *very* closely with yours. these may be specifically more to your cup of tea:

- thievery corporation: the richest man in babylon
- dzihan & kamien: gran riserva

let me know your thoughts and we can trade some more music notes!

thanks,

jp
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 19 Aug 2009, 12:46 am
Kirk,

Cool, np at all. Did that more so for the general populace  :D
The Oppo is the very close to a high quality all around player for all seasons...

Anyhow, I will check into the Leonard Cohen stuff for sure...thanks for that one!

JP78:
Nice to meet you! Thanks for your nice comments, there is a lot of good stuff laced thru the thread and I have certainly expanded my musical horizions for sure!!

I will look into your suggestions as well....I have some DM stuff is there any in particular that are in the exceptional recording quality etc??


I just finished listening to Adele "19" this is really a great choice and very well recorded...What a wonderful voice. Demo stuff.

I also went back way in time to Dave Brubecks "Time Out" I have one of the original cd's and it was a shock to hear a really well recorded set of tracks. The imaging was more like the older 2 ch right/left stereo recordings, not that bad but its a bit towards that...but the overall cd is a joy to listen to....

Another surprise was GRPs Happy Anniversary Charlie Brown...now this is NOT classiscal music or some really great Jazz recording but there are a lot of really great recordings across a wide variety if artists on the early GRP label and this is one of those loss leaders. The cd is comprised of Patti Austin, David Benoit, Dave Brubeck, Chick Corea, Kenny G, Dave Grusin, BB King, Gerry Mulligan, Lee Ritenour, Joe Williams and Amani A.W. Murray. The CD is crystal clear and will make u smile!

So much more to listen to so little time!!

All the Best
Alex

 aa
 :banana piano:


Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: JP78 on 19 Aug 2009, 01:03 am
alex - i'd say that 'ultra' has some remarkable texture and mixing effects, though there is definitely some level of compression. still, i find the connection to gahan's vocals very clear and immediate. please share your thoughts so we can better align recommendations for one another. i would certainly say though it's the couple tracks that martin gore sings here that really steal the spotlight.

along the same lines, can you share your thoughts of radiohead's 'ok computer'? i'm curious to your thoughts of such tracks as 'no surprises' or 'let down'.

thanks!
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: K Shep on 20 Aug 2009, 01:50 am
I am amazed at the different genre's of music I am learning to enjoy.  I read a review about this CD and ordered it from Azon.  Very well recorded.

The Hot Club of San Francisco - Yerba Buena Bounce
http://www.amazon.com/Yerba-Buena-Bounce-Club-Francisco/dp/B000N60H5O/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1250732588&sr=1-3

Kirk
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Art_Chicago on 20 Aug 2009, 04:19 am

along the same lines, can you share your thoughts of radiohead's 'ok computer'? i'm curious to your thoughts of such tracks as 'no surprises' or 'let down'.

thanks!
I am hoping Alex will share his opinion about OK computer, but I just wanted to say it is a great CD. I used Climbing up the walls track to compare my Van Alstine power amp vs. NAD 340 through ST's, and the NAD basically failed to reproduce the 3-D sound stage, the range and the separate instruments voices. Tracks like Lucky and Karma police I use  as bass reference.  It is one of the best rock CD's, IMO.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 22 Aug 2009, 02:49 am
Ok Computer is on its way, I will post shortly..

Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: MaxCast on 22 Aug 2009, 04:06 am
Female vocal
http://www.jennamammina.com/index2.html
Meant to Be and Inner Smile are two of my favorite.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 22 Aug 2009, 01:32 pm
MaxCast..

Thanks for the recommendation...Inner Smile on the way!

All the best
Alex
 aa
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Wally King on 22 Aug 2009, 03:27 pm
Here are a few CDs that contain exciting and/or beautiful music that also sound wonderful on my HT-3s:

David Finckel and Wu Han: Grieg, Schumann and Chopin ? music for piano and cello
http://www.artistled.com/Recordings/CD_Grieg.htm

Yasushi Akutagawa: Ellora Symphony, Trinita Sinfonica and Rhapsody
http://www.naxos.com/catalogue/item.asp?item_code=8.555975

Virgil Thompson: The Plow that Broke the Plains and The River
http://www.naxos.com/catalogue/item.asp?item_code=8.559291

Dead Can Dance: Toward the Within
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0015YFOI8/ref=dm_dp_cdp?ie=UTF8&s=music

Charlie Haden and John Taylor: Nightfall
http://www.naimlabel.com/artist-charlie-haden---john-taylor.aspx

Charlie Haden and Antonio Forcione: Heartplay
http://www.naimlabel.com/artist-charlie-haden---antonio-forcione.aspx

Check 'em out.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 23 Aug 2009, 08:39 pm
Wally,

Thanks so much for the nice list!!!

I will definitely look into these selections!!

All the best
Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: ted_b on 23 Aug 2009, 08:41 pm
Wally, Thanks.  You turned me on to Naim label, which has both of your recommendations as 24/96 downloads too.  I bought and downloaded the Haden/Forcione one (Heartlplay); very very nice.   :thumb:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: K Shep on 24 Aug 2009, 01:09 am
I enjoy a couple of Sheryl Crow songs and I decided to order her Greatest Hits CD.  It turned out to be much better than I expected.  The reason I am suggesting it here is the recording quality is on par for this thread.  Alex, if you like Ms. Crow you will dig this great demo CD.

The Very Best of Sheryl Crow
http://www.amazon.com/Very-Best-Sheryl-Crow/dp/B0000DZ3E2/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1251076079&sr=1-1

Kirk
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: ted_b on 24 Aug 2009, 01:11 am
her self-titled (actually second release) is very well engineered, with lots of dynamics and fun.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Wally King on 24 Aug 2009, 09:53 pm
Wally, Thanks.  You turned me on to Naim label, which has both of your recommendations as 24/96 downloads too.  I bought and downloaded the Haden/Forcione one (Heartlplay); very very nice.   :thumb:

You're very welcome.

Another great recording from Naim, and another collection of duets involving Charlie Haden, is here:

http://www.naimlabel.com/artist-charlie-haden-and-chris-anderson.aspx

The pianist, Chris Anderson, is a guy I'd never heard of before I came across this album, but Herbie Hancock actually studied with him, so you know Andersons's got it going on.  He passed away last year, but this album is a great testament to his talents.  And, per usual with Naim recordings, the sound quality is stellar.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: K Shep on 25 Aug 2009, 02:47 pm
I enjoy Madeleine Peyroux and to my ear, in my system, Careless Love sounds good, but when I received this from Azon I was grinning from ear to ear.  IMO truly a demo CD worthy of this thread.

Madeleine Peyroux - Bare Bones
http://www.amazon.com/Bare-Bones-Madeleine-Peyroux/dp/B001KP2Y3K/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1251211470&sr=1-1

Kirk
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 26 Aug 2009, 01:26 am
K Shep....its on the way, thanks!!

I thought Careless love was good but not really stellar....if you crank it up abit its ok, good but not a great recording. (to my ears on my stuff  :D)...

I am checking this one out and will post a bunch of my impressions soon:
Anne McCue "Roll"
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0001ENXZE/ref=ox_ya_oh_product

Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Art_Chicago on 26 Aug 2009, 02:28 am
I enjoy Madeleine Peyroux and to my ear, in my system, Careless Love sounds good, but when I received this from Azon I was grinning from ear to ear.  IMO truly a demo CD worthy of this thread.

Madeleine Peyroux - Bare Bones
http://www.amazon.com/Bare-Bones-Madeleine-Peyroux/dp/B001KP2Y3K/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1251211470&sr=1-1

Kirk
Kirk,
Check page 6 of this thread-- I got slammed( :D) for recommending careless love because of the compression. I have "bare bones" as well, but it sounds similar to careless love to my ears (compressed). But the truth is ... I agree with the criticism now.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: K Shep on 26 Aug 2009, 02:56 am
I read this entire thread more than once and before I posted my thoughts about Bare Bones I went back to page 6.  A few were a bit critical of your recommendation, but I too own Careless Love and I agree it is not in what I think Alex considers "demo" quality.  The CD that I own, Bare Bones is stellar, I listened to it last might before I posted.  The vocal is crisp, the instruments live in 3D hanging in air, and the sound stage is wonderful.  With that said I think that there may be a difference in recording quality of the same album, in other words my Bare Bones may sound better than yours.  If 5 guys on AC all post the same impression of a recording and I don't agree I need to pay great attention, perhaps admit that I may be incorrect or just move on. 

Alex,
If you would, be sure to post your impressions of Bare Bones and let's know if it is worthy of the "demo list. 

Art, I don't mean to sound hard here I am just in one of those, get to the point moods.

Kirk
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 26 Aug 2009, 12:32 pm
Art,

Its on its way good or bad...I went back before I ordered it and relistened to Careless Love at varying sound levels.
Its still has that what we are calling 'compressed' sound...

Her voice is pretty easy to 'hear' and understand the 'words' she is singing but its like they mic'd this a bit off or is it her
real voice that is a but 'soft' or 'muddy sounding???

Could it be that this is the real deal here??

I didnt check the dates of the 2 cds' ie Careless Love vs bare Bones and maybe its a different studio, equipmnet, recording engineer etc?? It will be interesting to see.

Keep those recomendations coming!!

Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Art_Chicago on 26 Aug 2009, 02:23 pm
Kirk,
I will give it another try, it has been a while since I heard it.  I think though that there was only one release of the CD as it is pretty fresh. I also thought that the sound stage, the space around the instruments and the voice are pretty good on the Careless Love ( the piano is too big apparently).
Alex,
my impression was that the studio and the sound engineer are the same, but I am not saying that these two CD's should sound the same' cause of that.
Art
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 26 Aug 2009, 08:03 pm
Challenge:

While I am waiting on new material to arrive and comment on I thought I would ask you all to try to identify the "1" cd that you have or have heard that is the "BEST".

Jim asked for a list of your top "10" cds and this led me to post my top 15 or so.

So now pick out the one that  is the best to you..

The areas that should be looked at to help you decide are:

1. Imaging
2. Clarity
3. Dynamic Range
4. Overall Performance

This cd when played should make you immediately smile, move your feet and or other body parts...and you play it often because its that good.

Well name your poison!!

All the best
Alex
 aa
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: JerryM on 27 Aug 2009, 03:24 am
Challenge:

While I am waiting on new material to arrive and comment on I thought I would ask you all to try to identify the "1" cd that you have or have heard that is the "BEST".

Jim asked for a list of your top "10" cds and this led me to post my top 15 or so.

So now pick out the one that  is the best to you..

The areas that should be looked at to help you decide are:

1. Imaging
2. Clarity
3. Dynamic Range
4. Overall Performance

This cd when played should make you immediately smile, move your feet and or other body parts...and you play it often because its that good.

Well name your poison!!

All the best
Alex
 aa

Leaning on the areas you've named that should be looked at, and totally knee-jerk-&-off-the-top-of-my-head, I'll say Nils Lofgren Acoustic Live. Every song isn't 'that' song, but the one's that are raise the average to 'outstanding'. An incredible CD of a guy playing some incredible acoustic guitar, that has been incredibly recorded and mastered.

JMHO,
Jerry
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: rahimlee54 on 27 Aug 2009, 12:32 pm
Something that surprised me last night was streaming a little No Doubt "Tragic Kingdom".  I ripped it from my wife's collection and just threw it on expecting it to sound pretty mediocre.  I was totally wrong, you could hear every intsturment clearly, everything was defined, and it sounded like the singer was in the room.  My wife didnt get it but I was freaking out a little.  This CD isnt the first thing I would go to just to enjoy, but that was so good I had to admit it.

I'll be going on an amazon spree early next month, I try to limit myself to one order per month, so I will be trying stuff from everyones top ten so keep em coming.

Thanks
Jared
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: BobM on 27 Aug 2009, 12:51 pm
I was listening to Nora Jones "Not Too Late" last night and was very impressed with the quality of the sound. But I guess that's not surprising since each of her releases has had good sound. Unfortunately the music isn't as memorable as her first album - just more of the same. She needs to shake it up a bit, for sure.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: greenhouseman on 28 Aug 2009, 07:54 pm
Challenge:

While I am waiting on new material to arrive and comment on I thought I would ask you all to try to identify the "1" cd that you have or have heard that is the "BEST".

Jim asked for a list of your top "10" cds and this led me to post my top 15 or so.

So now pick out the one that  is the best to you..

The areas that should be looked at to help you decide are:

1. Imaging
2. Clarity
3. Dynamic Range
4. Overall Performance

This cd when played should make you immediately smile, move your feet and or other body parts...and you play it often because its that good.

Well name your poison!!

All the best
Alex
 aa

For me, Steely Dan  AJA- Mobile Fidelity,
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: TJC712 on 29 Aug 2009, 04:02 am
For those of you into jazz check out Easy Walker by the Larry Fuller Trio (Ray Brown & Jeff Hamilton). These guys can swing. Hamilton's drums sound real sweet... cymbals/high hats really seem to accentuate the quality of the Ribbons. I noticed (as on other recordings) that the only discernable distortion appears on some piano notes. Anyone else ever notice this? I've heard other recordings that sound great except for some of the piano notes.

Also, getting away from jazz for a second and moving into the "blast from the past" category, has anyone heard a good recording of Bowie's Ziggy Stardust?
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: mritschdorff on 29 Aug 2009, 01:09 pm
Greetings All,
I'm a newbie to AC. I've enjoyed reading all the informative and entertaining posts. I would like to throw my two cents for outstanding CD:
Ronny Jordan - A Brighter Day. Specifically the track "Mystic Voyager." The track has deep musical bass and phenomenal vibe work by Roy Ayers. The production and engineering is top notch. Each track is unique and layered with tasteful instrumental detail. The CD reminds me of Ray Charles - Genius Loves Company. I'll be using both these CD's to test my new pair of Salk Veracity HT2TL's which I will be receiving shortly.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: greenhouseman on 29 Aug 2009, 02:10 pm
Also, getting away from jazz for a second and moving into the "blast from the past" category, has anyone heard a good recording of Bowie's Ziggy Stardust?

I think that the SACD version is quite good but as the jacket indicates the louder the better---i concur
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: OgOgilby on 29 Aug 2009, 04:09 pm
For something very different, track down Frank Zappa's "The Yellow Shark". It's an extremely well recorded chamber-orchestra arrangement of a collection of Zappa complex compositions performed by Germany's Ensemble Modern. The intricacies of this recording will test out your system and speakers - it's full of audio surprises. Sounds great on our HT2 TL's  :thumb:

Here is a Stereophile review: http://www.stereophile.com/recordingofthemonth/918/ (http://www.stereophile.com/recordingofthemonth/918/)
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: jazzcat1 on 31 Aug 2009, 01:19 pm
Greetings All,
I'm a newbie to AC. I've enjoyed reading all the informative and entertaining posts. I would like to throw my two cents for outstanding CD:
Ronny Jordan - A Brighter Day. Specifically the track "Mystic Voyager." The track has deep musical bass and phenomenal vibe work by Roy Ayers. The production and engineering is top notch. Each track is unique and layered with tasteful instrumental detail. The CD reminds me of Ray Charles - Genius Loves Company. I'll be using both these CD's to test my new pair of Salk Veracity HT2TL's which I will be receiving shortly.

Welcome to AC and congrats on your soon to be acquisition! My HT2-TL's are still a few weeks off. Will be ordering this CD. Previews sound pretty good.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: ctouhey on 31 Aug 2009, 06:20 pm
Well, we still need to decide on the veneer, but hoping to have HT3s and HTC up and running before Christmas.

I've always liked to use Friday Night Live in San Francisco as one of my listening CDs when evaluating speakers.  I did not see it mentioned here.

I think it's an excellent live CD featuring guitarists John McLaughlin, Al DiMeola and Paco DeLucia.

Chris
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 31 Aug 2009, 11:52 pm
Ctouhey,

Thanks for the recommendation. I think I actually have the SACD version of this recording , I will check to see and let you know how it sounds to me. Nice to meet you!

Jazzcat1,

I will look into Ronny Jordan, I must confess this is the first time I have heard of him...thanks!


I just got back from a few days vacation and have a pile of cd's to work through based on the last 15 or so posts!!

Get back to you all soon!


Keep posting!!

All the best
Alex
 aa
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 1 Sep 2009, 12:32 am
JP78,

Just listened to Radiohead's OK Computer...

What to say...

To be fair its not my cup of tea..at least at first listen. I did think of Pink Floyd and Coldplay several times as I listened.

To be fair I did write down some comments as first impressions:

First was compression...vocals while ok sound muddy and not really clear to discern the words...you struggle at times to hear what he is singing. Seems like on the openings or song intros the instruments are nice, not 100% clear, but good....then the voice rolls in and I kept saying, great vocal sound but not clear in the overall presentation...I played really soft, and really loud made no difference.

I found this album out of the norm, and very what I would call 'moody'depending on your mood this may not be a demo record for the intent of really grabbing ones attention etc...

Please dont read me wrong I am not ANTI Radiohead....

Track 3 was nice to me overall and some of the best vocals as part of being clear and understandable...

Track4 Nice to me best voice clarity.

Track 5 Nice but hard to understand words..too much blending in of everything.

Track 6 Reminded me of Coldplay.

Track 7 To me was totally worthless..sorry.

Track 10 Nice opening, muted vocals compared to instruments.

Track 11 Strange Intro..

Overall I would not recommend this as a demo recording over the many others I could choose from...

But please dont misread this...this type of music may be your cup of tea but...its not mainstream enough for me (good or bad).

I would rate this about a strong 8 out of 10 compared to other material as far as clarity, imaging, dynamic range etc...

I wonder if any other Radiohead recordings are any different as far as vocals and mixing.

Ok let er rip.

All the best
Alex


Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: ted_b on 1 Sep 2009, 12:40 am
OK Computer is not demo material under any circumstances.....but a classic beyond belief IMO.  It is also one of the most often requested titles when the subject of "what cd would you like to hear in 5.1", or "in Hirez 2 channel", or just "remastered".  The 45 rpm vinyl is very good.

Hail To The Thief won a Grammy for Best Engineered Album, and for good reason.  Much better sonics. 
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Art_Chicago on 1 Sep 2009, 02:15 am
Alex,
I think 8 out of 10 is fair, providing their style, background,  etc. I am sort of confused why you are comparing  them to Coldplay- a pop-rock group (IMO) that I believe was formed in 1998,  in 2 years after the realize of OK computer.  Coldplay was influenced by Radiohead big time.
 Disagree about Pink Floyd, either, although I like PF a lot. It is just  a very different style, mentality, etc. I am sure Yorke listened to PF a lot, but almost  everyone does.  The only thing that these three groups have in common is British  :D
I agree that some muddiness is present but it seems to be intentional as it is not present on every track, as you stated.

OK Computer is not demo material under any circumstances.....but a classic beyond belief IMO.  It is also one of the most often requested titles when the subject of "what cd would you like to hear in 5.1", or "in Hirez 2 channel", or just "remastered".  The 45 rpm vinyl is very good.

Hail To The Thief won a Grammy for Best Engineered Album, and for good reason.  Much better sonics. 
+1, though Hail to the Thief is not up to the level musically, imo.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: K Shep on 2 Sep 2009, 01:49 am


Alanis Morrisettte - Jagged Little Pill Acoustic
http://www.amazon.com/Jagged-Little-Acoustic-Alanis-Morissette/dp/B0009WFF0Y/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1248395439&sr=1-2

Alex,

I am listening to this now.  Give it a shot if you like Alanis even just a little, superb recording!

Kirk
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 3 Sep 2009, 12:50 pm
Hello Art,

Been consumed by work this week...off today have to go to Chemo lab with my wife and have a few minutes this am.

I think I made the Coldplay association by the 'sound' of the male vocal...just by that occaisionally.

When I was listening I said "hmmm this part sounds a little like Coldplay..." 

Anyway I will re-listen in time and maybe come to appreciate the "words/meanings/ etc...

K Shep,

I have NO Alanis Morrisette at all in my collection, but I will look into this recommendation.
(Update...on order!  :D)

I have the following to review:

Anne McCue - Roll
Jenna Mammina - Under the Influence
Madeline Peyroux - Bare Bones
The Very Best of Sheryl Crow

Hope to get to these this week!

Thanks for all the posts and recommendations!!

All the Best
Alex
 aa
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: BobM on 3 Sep 2009, 01:47 pm
I also love Jenna Mammina's "Meant to Be" CD. Truly a unique voice and definitely audiophile quality. I especially like her song "A Love that Lasts" on that CD. I've turned on a few people to that one and subsequently have heard it played at Audio shows in demo rooms.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: oneinthepipe on 4 Sep 2009, 01:13 am
If you like female singer/songwriters, you might enjoy Rachel Yamagata, Feist, Priscilla Ahn, Rachel Loshak, Erin Bode, and the brilliant Martha Wainwright.  The recordings aren't necessarily the best, however.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 5 Sep 2009, 06:47 pm
Has Donald Fagen "Morph the Cat" been mentioned yet?

Bob
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: zybar on 5 Sep 2009, 08:26 pm
Has Donald Fagen "Morph the Cat" been mentioned yet?

Bob

As good as it is on cd, it is even better as a DVD-A in hi-rez.   aa

George

Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Tyson on 5 Sep 2009, 10:46 pm
Best demo CD I have is Mozart's darkest and stormiest piano concertos, performed by the 2 best Mozart performers of the modern era.  Soundstage, tonality, dynamics, performances, all of it is outstanding.  Brendel and Mackerras just have not been matched in these works, IMO:

(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41ZRGVZ3SWL._SS500_.jpg)
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 5 Sep 2009, 11:58 pm
Has Donald Fagen "Morph the Cat" been mentioned yet?

Bob

As good as it is on cd, it is even better as a DVD-A in hi-rez.   aa

George
Send it to me. I'll trade you for.....???  :icon_twisted:

Bob
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 6 Sep 2009, 01:00 pm
Hello,

I am listening to: Jenna Mammina - "Under the Influence" and I am happy to say this is a really good recording, well done and the vocals are nice...the content is slow and deliberate, very sensual at times....this woman has real talent and this is a nice demo cd.

Track 2, Track 5 (kick drum).etc....really nice..

Thanks for this recommendatio, I will be looking into her other recording s for sure..

I have receved some remasters of good old Elton John, but they are on the bottom of the pile to listen to!

Tyson..thanks for the Mozart recommendation, I will look into this for sure!

Donald Fagen "Morph the CatThanks this isnt in the thread as far as I can recall.

All the best
Alex

 aa
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 6 Sep 2009, 08:00 pm
Hello...

Its a wonderful time again...when I first started this thread months ago I was looking for the really good stuff to play on my new SongTowers, and always longed for those great early bands we grew up with like the Beatles, the Stones, Elton etc...but most of these early recordings in mono and 2 track analog tape to very munch compromised vinyl recordings really sounded like well...ok not like demo quality cds made today with all the great digital recording equipment...

Well the times are changing..the entire Beatles collection is coming out on Sept 9, all remastered etc, as well as Eltons stuff...will it be demo quality , this yet remains to be seen but I did get three of the remastered cds from Elton Johns early days....comments follow!!


I just listened to Elton Johns "Madman Across the Water" from 1971, his third album. Its the newly re-mastered CD, remastered by Gus Dudgeon, Tony Cousins and Crispin Murray i London.

According to the liner notes, all the tapes used create these new masters are the original mixes. But they go on to say that many of the tapes are at least 25 years old, they have "softened up" to varying degrees. So the sound has been passed through the most up to date digital processing equipment, at 20 bit resolution, namely the Sadie Digital System and Prism Super Noise Shaper. The effect is to enhance rather than "color" the sound. AS the original producer he states he would have used this equipment at the time had it been availablef for remastering. The very nature of the analog recordings being transferred to vinyl way back then demanded major compromises. With the benefits of digital sound these contstraints are removed and the recordings can be heard much closer to the reproduction they had originally intended....

So how does it sound, compared to my original vinyl...absolutely wonderful...there still is a lack of the low end, bass and drum whacks etc..but that said its as a good as its going to get for this early stuff...for us old guys!!

So if your looking for the early stuff, from all those wonderful bands..its indeed a wonderful time to be able to re-listen to this stuff as it comes out remastered.

So maybe these new remastered cds will not have the dynamic range that can be had today, but they stand to be something that a lot of us will buy and listen to and smile alot!!

So these are demo cds in their right, just not maybe up to the absolute audiophile standards we see today in many of the recording recommended througout this thread!

All the best..and enjoy!

Alex
 aa

Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: TJC712 on 7 Sep 2009, 12:35 am
Glad to hear Alex (as a fellow old guy!). I plan on ordering the new Beatles release so I'll let you know. Before you know it, we'll have improved versions of tunes from The Zombies, Classics IV, Lovin' Spoonful, Turtles, Kinks, Blood Sweat & Tears, Herman's Hermits, Chad & Jeremy, Gerry & the Pacemakers, all the Motown stuff, etc.

BTW... somebody did mention Morph the Cat somewhere back in this thread. I remember reading it and thinking that it was a great selection. Kudos to whoever it was!
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: MaxCast on 7 Sep 2009, 01:02 am
Hello,

I am listening to: Jenna Mammina - "Under the Influence" and I am happy to say this is a really good recording, well done and the vocals are nice...the content is slow and deliberate, very sensual at times....this woman has real talent and this is a nice demo cd.

Track 2, Track 5 (kick drum).etc....really nice..

Thanks for this recommendatio, I will be looking into her other recording s for sure..

All the best
Alex

 aa
I listened to that last night.  I have to say I enjoy her other two albums a bit more.  Although Take My Sugar to Tea always puts a smile on my face.

She is in Town this weekend and has a concert tomorrow at the SJRYC (St. Joseph River Yacht Club). 
http://www.sjryc.com/
I hope I get to go, but we have a birthday party to go to  :|  I also have read "new CD release" on the posters so I hope she has a new one out for us.  Take care, glad you liked it.

Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 7 Sep 2009, 04:15 pm
KShep..

Listening to : Madeline Peyroux - Bare Bones.

Much better than Careless Love as far as recording etc...

Here voice is really unique and very warm...this recording allows it to shine very well.

It seeme like whoever is recording, mastering  and mixing her songs is doing it on what I call the 'warm side'...to accentuate her warm voice??

Anyhow this one is demo quality for sure whether you like the content etc...

I really like the slow, deliberate tunes she sings on this CD.

Glad I gave here another try!!

Thanks for the recommendation!


All the best
Alex
 aa
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: TJC712 on 9 Sep 2009, 12:10 am
Hello...

Its a wonderful time again...when I first started this thread months ago I was looking for the really good stuff to play on my new SongTowers, and always longed for those great early bands we grew up with like the Beatles, the Stones, Elton etc...but most of these early recordings in mono and 2 track analog tape to very munch compromised vinyl recordings really sounded like well...ok not like demo quality cds made today with all the great digital recording equipment...

Well the times are changing..the entire Beatles collection is coming out on Sept 9, all remastered etc, as well as Eltons stuff...will it be demo quality , this yet remains to be seen but I did get three of the remastered cds from Elton Johns early days....comments follow!!


I just listened to Elton Johns "Madman Across the Water" from 1971, his third album. Its the newly re-mastered CD, remastered by Gus Dudgeon, Tony Cousins and Crispin Murray i London.

According to the liner notes, all the tapes used create these new masters are the original mixes. But they go on to say that many of the tapes are at least 25 years old, they have "softened up" to varying degrees. So the sound has been passed through the most up to date digital processing equipment, at 20 bit resolution, namely the Sadie Digital System and Prism Super Noise Shaper. The effect is to enhance rather than "color" the sound. AS the original producer he states he would have used this equipment at the time had it been availablef for remastering. The very nature of the analog recordings being transferred to vinyl way back then demanded major compromises. With the benefits of digital sound these contstraints are removed and the recordings can be heard much closer to the reproduction they had originally intended....

So how does it sound, compared to my original vinyl...absolutely wonderful...there still is a lack of the low end, bass and drum whacks etc..but that said its as a good as its going to get for this early stuff...for us old guys!!

So if your looking for the early stuff, from all those wonderful bands..its indeed a wonderful time to be able to re-listen to this stuff as it comes out remastered.

So maybe these new remastered cds will not have the dynamic range that can be had today, but they stand to be something that a lot of us will buy and listen to and smile alot!!

So these are demo cds in their right, just not maybe up to the absolute audiophile standards we see today in many of the recording recommended througout this thread!

All the best..and enjoy!

Alex
 aa

I was at a local FYE store tonight (NY) and had the 2009 Beatles Stereo box set in my hands. They actually refused to sell it to me until tomorrow... "clerk shouldn't have taken it out". They only had 3 in the store (I was taking 2). In hindsight, I probably saved a few $$ since they wanted $250 ea. I see that Bestbuy is selling for $200.  Very anxious to get a listen! Hope to not be too disappointed. Alex, your post gives me hope....
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: K Shep on 9 Sep 2009, 12:16 am
KShep..

Listening to : Madeline Peyroux - Bare Bones.

Much better than Careless Love as far as recording etc...

Here voice is really unique and very warm...this recording allows it to shine very well.

It seeme like whoever is recording, mastering  and mixing her songs is doing it on what I call the 'warm side'...to accentuate her warm voice??

Anyhow this one is demo quality for sure whether you like the content etc...

I really like the slow, deliberate tunes she sings on this CD.

Glad I gave here another try!!

Thanks for the recommendation!


All the best
Alex
 aa

I am a fan of the sound of her vocals as well.  I would describe it as a vintage sound but good quality.  Smokey.

I am glad you enjoy Bare Bones.

Kirk
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 9 Sep 2009, 12:28 am
Kirk,

Smokey..thats good, exactly.

On the remastered cds...the one Elton John was good, but the second one I listened to "Elton John" - Elton John is just not that good at all...a couple of nice tunes but not that well remastered at all...quite a dissapointment!!

Finger Crossed...and you need to get the Mono and Stereo version of the Beatles!!  aa

That's almost a cool $400+ bucks!!

Smiling

Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: JerryM on 9 Sep 2009, 03:09 am
Mike Oldfield - Tubular Bells, Pt. 1

My volume knob just tends to love this tune.  8)
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 9 Sep 2009, 06:09 pm
Wow...Tublar Bells!!

I actually have the original vinyl....havent listened to this is "ages"..

I will have to go buy this one again!!

Thanks

Alex

Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: mathgeek97 on 9 Sep 2009, 07:55 pm
"The Beatles in Stereo?"
Has anybody bought/listened to this, yet?  Bloomberg has a glowing review from Mark Beech.  He was impressed with the clarity and the separation of instruments that he was finally able to make out, while studio background noise was not eliminated.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 10 Sep 2009, 01:51 am
mathgeek97..

Mine are on the way...Stereo version....time will tell.

All the best
Alex
 aa
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: TJC712 on 10 Sep 2009, 04:05 am
"The Beatles in Stereo?"
Has anybody bought/listened to this, yet?  Bloomberg has a glowing review from Mark Beech.  He was impressed with the clarity and the separation of instruments that he was finally able to make out, while studio background noise was not eliminated.

Yeah, was able to buy the only 2 copies they had in FYE today. At $225 ea. a bit pricey, but they had em... I wanted em. The old "bird in hand" thing. As a matter of fact 1 of the 2 was the opened store demo, but I took it anyway (needed birthday gift for my son!). Just really started listening a little while ago, but I'm really liking what I hear. Most of what I had read in early previews/reviews pretty accurate. As you mentioned, clarity, separation noticeably improved. The sound has just opened up considerably. Bass & drums definitely more prominent (McCartney's melodic bass lines on Something much enhanced... sounds great!).  Will provide more info as I get a chance to listen... hopefully sooner than later! Lots of music to listen to.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: TJC712 on 10 Sep 2009, 04:27 am
As I sit & listen some more to various cuts from different albums... harsher guitar strings, clearer highhats/tambourines, more pronounced background vocals, more mic noise... it's like a "filter" has been removed from Beatle tunes I've heard thousands of times before. Very nice....
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: fishinbob on 11 Sep 2009, 03:28 pm
I will most likely pick up Yellow Submarine and Let It Be soon. Went to BB to buy a couple and ended up with a dozen :oops: The Box sets were gone by the time I showed up or I would have most likely gotten one of them.

FWIW, Because from Abbey Road is now one of  my demo cuts :thumb: Very clean...I'm impressed.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Don_S on 11 Sep 2009, 04:06 pm
May I suggest that to keep this thread fresh all future Beatles reissue comments go on an existing thread?

 http://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=71535.msg668878;topicseen#new

Sorry to spoil the Beatles love fest here but they have already been mentioned on this thread so let's move on and keep new ideas coming. 

If you have not figured it out yet, I am not a Beatles fan and don't see what all the fuss is about.  :scratch: That is ok, everyone gets to make their own choices.  I just resent the way Beatles reproduce and totally take over a thread.  I keep looking at this thread so I can find "NEW" music.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: fishinbob on 11 Sep 2009, 05:40 pm
 :violin:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 11 Sep 2009, 08:42 pm
My memory is horrible, but after 21 pages I've forgotten if we've talked about "Bond".
Four gals with strings and a bit of a fast drum beat.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0V0mqrpY31s

Bob

p.s. FWIW, I agree with Don about the Beatles. Kinda tired of hearing about them after all these years. Nothing new, they just wiped the proverbial dust off the same ol'....same ol' dredged up tunes we've been listening to for decades.
Although, you have to give them credit, they sure know how to keep the money rolling in while they're nearing "the golden years".  :roll:
I envy their retirement plan.
Sorry for the rant. Ok, no....not really.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Art_Chicago on 11 Sep 2009, 11:35 pm
Bob,
"Four gals with strings and a bit of a fast drum beat."
Pretty cool clip. yeah...  Am I missing something else besides their physical attractiveness ( I do like these four performers).
Art
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: fishinbob on 12 Sep 2009, 12:33 am
BOND = Yanni with cleavage :lol: Lots of it.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 12 Sep 2009, 02:27 am
Am I missing something else besides their physical attractiveness ( I do like these four performers).
Um....Not sure what you're missing.  :dunno:
They sound great, the CD has excellent sound quality and the music is good. 
I hope that eventually, you stop missing what they have to offer.

Bob
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Art_Chicago on 12 Sep 2009, 02:42 am
Am I missing something else besides their physical attractiveness ( I do like these four performers).
Um....Not sure what you're missing.  :dunno:
They sound great, the CD has excellent sound quality and the music is good. 
I hope that eventually, you stop missing what they have to offer.

Bob

well, I think the producer did a great job. He put together the sexiest gals who can play violins /cellos in a quartet. Kudos!
I hope I will always enjoy what they have got to offer...
 Music is not their strongest side, IMO  :D
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: ecramer on 12 Sep 2009, 03:16 am
(http://www.rasputina.com/images/per_picGroupCOL01.jpg)

Rasputina~ Wish You Were Here (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DdMp7C8T-ts)

Girls playing cellos  :thumb:

Now remember who's posting this link so they are not playing clasical music  :lol:

Transylvanian Concubine - Interview with the Vampire (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rZAxZZtK9h4&feature=related)



Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 13 Sep 2009, 11:40 pm
Hello,

Back from a short vacation and I will be posting a few new ones shortly.

About the Beatles comments, I am ok with posting about the quality of the sound if anyone thinks they are what I started this thread about in the first place...really good, well recorded cds. If you think any of the remastered cds are worthy of being a "demo' level cd let us know.

Any other comments probably would be best in the Beatles thread that Don mentioned a few posts back.

All the best
Alex
 :D


Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: K Shep on 14 Sep 2009, 01:16 am
Welcome back.  Here is a CD that has found its way into my current rotation.

Laurie Anderson - Life on a String

http://www.amazon.com/Life-String-Laurie-Anderson/dp/B000050K9A/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1252890764&sr=1-1

Kirk
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 14 Sep 2009, 11:32 pm
Ok,

My last Elton John, remastered selection was:
Tumbleweed Connection.

http://www.amazon.com/Tumbleweed-Connection-Elton-John/dp/B000001EG4/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1252970736&sr=8-1

It is a really good recording, I honestly do not recognize many of the songs on this cd. The quality for such an old recording, Jan 1971 is about as good as I think it can get if you want to hear what Elton sounded like back then.

I would not say this is demo quality, but some of the re-mastered cuts come close in some aspects. If I had to choose only one if the three I recently listened to, this would be it!

All the best
Alex :D
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 14 Sep 2009, 11:39 pm
Ok,

One more, Alanis Morrisettte - Jagged Little Pill Acoustic

This was KShep's recommendation and my first Alanis Morrisette cd ever.

Its really wonderful and I would put this in the demo category for this type of music.

I like female voice and even though her voice is not my favorite, its really, really good. I think her voice can cut glass at times..this girl can hold a note!!!! WOW!

Thanks for the recommendation. I wil have to explore some of her other works...this is labled - Acoustic....any reason why?

All the best
Alex
 :)
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: K Shep on 15 Sep 2009, 01:56 am
To mark the 10-year anniversary of the 30 million-selling Jagged Little Pill, Alanis Morissette decided to release an acoustic version of the very same 13 songs.

I copied this from Amazon.

Kirk
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: rlee8394 on 15 Sep 2009, 02:26 am
Quote
Kinda tired of hearing about them after all these years. Nothing new, they just wiped the proverbial dust off the same ol'....same ol' dredged up tunes we've been listening to for decades.

Hmmm...couldn't one make the same argument for the entire classical music genre? Hold the flames, just an observation.

Ron
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 15 Sep 2009, 02:00 pm
Ok guys lets stop this one right now.... :nono:

If you have comments about the new Beatles remasterd cd's and think they are worthy of demo quality then please post....if not please dont...

The intent here is to have open, informative chats about what really good out there...

I have tried to be honest about the recommendations many of you have made......are they good, are they not so good...are they demo quality or not...even if I did not like the atrist or content. But I try to do it in a positive way.

I dont want us to start throwing stones about this group or that group...this is not what this thread is about.

So lets keep on track!!   aa

Awhile back I asked if you had only ONE cd to pick out what would that be??

Many of you have not replied??

I think so far we have:

Steely dan - Aja
Nil Lofgren - Acoustic Live

All the Best
Alex.....


Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: earthbound on 15 Sep 2009, 06:34 pm
Ok guys lets stop this one right now.... :nono:

. . . .

Awhile back I asked if you had only ONE cd to pick out what would that be??

Many of you have not replied??

I think so far we have:

Steely dan - Aja
Nil Lofgren - Acoustic Live

All the Best
Alex.....

Well, if you're going to get all huffy about it :wink: I would have to give a big thumbs up for Jethro Tull's Stand Up!  :thumb:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 15 Sep 2009, 06:53 pm
Hello,

Jethro Tull's - Stand Up!

Ok let me ask you why you think this is the number one CD for you??

The reason I ask is I am not really not a Jethro Tull expert..is it imaging, clarity, dynamic range...overall performance or all the above?

Alex

(less huffy now)  :P
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 16 Sep 2009, 12:31 am
TJC712,

Morph the Cat - Donald Fagan....got the 2 disc version. I only listened to the 2 ch disc, not the high res version, yet.

What to say:

WOW, Gorgeous, Lucious, Fantastic, Great, Awesome....

Whoever recorded and or mixed this cd has their act together.
This is a 10 out of a 10 CD.

Jim Salk, many of these selections could be demo selections for your Salk demo discs for sure.

The overall presentation is excellent, the sounds are crisp and clear, the imaging etc is just first class.

Even though I am not a real Donald Fagan fan this is a must have cd.

I need to know if any other if his cds are of this high caliber quality??

Help!!

All the best
Alex

NOTE: I have to say that on the SongTowers this is a real treat!!
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: lonewolfny42 on 16 Sep 2009, 05:28 am
Alex....

Quote
It is a really good recording, I honestly do not recognize many of the songs on this cd.

Quote
The reason I ask is I am not really not a Jethro Tull expert..is it imaging, clarity, dynamic range...overall performance or all the above?

Quote
Even though I am not a real Donald Fagan fan this is a must have cd.

Let me ask you a question...from the above quotes....what type of music do you listen to at home ? Thanks....
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: TJC712 on 16 Sep 2009, 06:09 am
TJC712,

Morph the Cat - Donald Fagan....got the 2 disc version. I only listened to the 2 ch disc, not the high res version, yet.

What to say:

WOW, Gorgeous, Lucious, Fantastic, Great, Awesome....

Whoever recorded and or mixed this cd has their act together.
This is a 10 out of a 10 CD.

Jim Salk, many of these selections could be demo selections for your Salk demo discs for sure.

The overall presentation is excellent, the sounds are crisp and clear, the imaging etc is just first class.

Even though I am not a real Donald Fagan fan this is a must have cd.

I need to know if any other if his cds are of this high caliber quality??

Help!!

All the best
Alex

NOTE: I have to say that on the SongTowers this is a real treat!!

This is why it was considered to be a "badge of honor" for a musician to make it to the final cut of any track on a Steely Dan/Donald Fagan album. Fagan's a noted mental case in getting the sound "just right". Pick up SD's Two Against Nature and Fagan's Nightfly. You will enjoy!
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: martyo on 16 Sep 2009, 09:19 am
Nice speakers there Chris.  :lol:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 16 Sep 2009, 06:16 pm
lonewolfny42,

The music I listen at home is varied...seeing how my personal time is limited because of all of lifes ups and downs...I find myself listenting to mostly the stuff that we have discussed in these 20 some odd pages of recommendations. We have no background music playing in the house.

When I make comments like those that you have cited, like "I honestly dont recognize this"  or "I am not a real fan of"...ie D. Fagan, its because I know there are people out there that are fans and others like me that are not but want them to know that you might want to listen or re-listen to these selections because they are that good.

So when i say its great but I dont recognize any of the songs on the disc, its just that...some people look for songs that they know in making the judgment of whether a cd is good or bad etc...in my case i want people to know that even though a disc may not contain music they are familiar with that the disc and material is awesome nonetheless...

In my case with Morph the Cat, based on my opinions and past observations I would never have thought to give this a listen to at all...man was I pleasantly surprised.

In the case of Fagan, my opinion of his has been always mediocre...but after listening to the Morph the Cat I was blown away at the overall quality even though I never heard any of these tunes .....

So back to what do you listen to at home:

Of the 300 or so cds I have, most are jazz orientated, lots of new age stuff...lots of female vocalists...some pop-rock stuff I hardly ever go back to listen to...mainly due to the quality of the recordings and mixing etc..the material or rather sound is good on the am radio but thats where it stops!! Good or bad...

The material you sent me awhile back, being a wonderful mix of many different artists and genre's opened up new venues that I am forever greatlful!! aa

Hope this helps...

Alex
 :wink:



Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: JerryM on 17 Sep 2009, 03:46 am
Awhile back I asked if you had only ONE cd to pick out what would that be??
Many of you have not replied??
I think so far we have:

Steely dan - Aja
Nil Lofgren - Acoustic Live

All the Best
Alex.....

Another CD to try is Kirk Whalum - For You. It would appear that Mr. Whalum is an audiophile.

This is smooth jazz sax. Incredibly recorded and mastered. The sound stage is crazy deep, and far wider than the speakers. Tonal balance, proper space, and well defined complexity are all-stars on this release.

Make no mistake about it - this album is best served immediately upon opening the second bottle of fine wine with your favorite lady-friend.  8)

But, if you want to solo a laid back chill session, this recording has a lot to offer.

JMHO, YMMV, etc.

Have fun,
Jerry
 
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: lonewolfny42 on 17 Sep 2009, 04:33 am
Thanks Alex for your reply. :thumb:

I'll see if I can gather a few more things for you....to expand your horizon....and save you some $.

The problem with finding that "Outstanding Demo Cd" is that many times too few tunes are really outstanding...you get a few on each Cd...then the rest are filler.

Sometimes its better to make up your own "Outstanding Demo Cd"...then your sure they are truly worth listening too.... :wink:

Something like the Rave Cd's....

                 Chris



Marty....
Quote
Nice speakers there Chris.
They are.... :wink:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: ctouhey on 17 Sep 2009, 05:11 am
Regarding Kirk Whalum ...

I saw him many times in the 80s at Cody's before Scott Gertner purchased the club.  Phenomenal!

I have to get some of his recordings and see if they live up to the live performances.  Thanks for the reminder.  I forgot about him once he relocated to L.A.

Chris
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 17 Sep 2009, 12:53 pm
I cant agree with you more on that one Chris...there really isnt a lot of cds of demo quality where all the material is up to snuff....

I started out with the 60's groups and as we grew older, jazz really took my attention and I really like not the hard core fusion stuff, but the more middle of the road jazz....I salivated over Spyrogyra for years as well.
Lately I am looking for material thats really outstanding all around regardless of my personal tastes, but again when you find something well done and you like the artist and/or material this is just great!! aa


The RAVE cds are a really great thing....you get to hear new and different stuff on each track that is demo quality.

I guess one of these days I will go the FLAC route and then mark the cuts I think are demo quality...this is one thing that digitial technology is great with.

jerryyM, thanks for the Kirk Whalum recommendation, I do like him and have a cd in my collection but have not gotten around to listening to it!!  It may be the one you cited.

Later
Alex

Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 18 Sep 2009, 09:00 pm
Hello,

I re-listened to Adele 19, which the limited edition has 2 cds. One is done in a studio with the ususal backround musicians, drums etc...and the other is 5 tracks recorded in a live setting in a hotel somewhere...

The neat thing here is this is a great example on how the same song done in a studio compared to the same son recorded live can differ so much.

The live recording is excellent, the quality of the sound is close to perfect. The same song on the studio cd is great but it has that studio, slightly veiled sound to it.

The musical content on the studio cd is better to me, but the clarity of the live recording is simply much better.

The live cd is missing the drums and bass etc...but man how nice it is to hear what can be done if its done 'right'. The guitar strings 'sound' in the live tracks are just so sonically sweet its not funny!!!  aa
quality

This is the sound or clarity I look for in a demo quality cd.

All the best!
Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 18 Sep 2009, 09:51 pm
Recommendation Demo Quality:

http://www.amazon.com/Sticks-Stones-Dave-Grusin/dp/B000008B3Z/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1253310286&sr=8-1

1988 Dave and Don Grusin's Sticks and Stones.

Seldom is there a cd that is demo quality and all the tracks on it are up to this high quality.

I have had this cd since 1988 and its a 10 of a 10. Its that good.
It can be had really on the cheap and its worth it.

Trust me if this cd does not make you smile and say WOW then you must not be breathing!!  :D

If you want to see how low and how well your SongTowers will go and perform start with track 8 "This little pig's got the blues" and hang on for the ride.

Go get this now!!!

All the best
Alex
 aa
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 18 Sep 2009, 09:52 pm
Recommendation Demo Quality:

http://www.amazon.com/Sticks-Stones-Dave-Grusin/dp/B000008B3Z/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1253310286&sr=8-1

1988 Dave and Don Grusin's Sticks and Stones.

Seldom is there a cd that is demo quality and all the tracks on it are up to this high quality.

I have had this cd since 1988 and its a 10 of a 10. Its that good.
It can be had really on the cheap and its worth it.

Trust me if this cd does not make you smile and say WOW then you must not be breathing!!  :D

If you want to see how low and how well your SongTowers will go and perform start with track 8 "This little pig's got the blues" and hang on for the ride.

Go get this now!!!

All the best
Alex
 aa



Oh and play it loud!!  8)
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: 16hz lover on 18 Sep 2009, 11:27 pm
For something very different, track down Frank Zappa's "The Yellow Shark". It's an extremely well recorded chamber-orchestra arrangement of a collection of Zappa complex compositions performed by Germany's Ensemble Modern. The intricacies of this recording will test out your system and speakers - it's full of audio surprises. Sounds great on our HT2 TL's  :thumb:

Here is a Stereophile review: http://www.stereophile.com/recordingofthemonth/918/ (http://www.stereophile.com/recordingofthemonth/918/)

Wow......talk about " different "    I couldn't make it through the 4th song....that's the weirdest stuff I've heard in a long time.  Know of anybody who wants my CD?
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 19 Sep 2009, 02:37 am
16hz lover,

This was one I stayed away from, only because Zappa is not my cup of tea!! :wink:

There was a OK Computer recommendation awhile back and I feel the same way you do about this cd as your input on Yellow Shark.

Sorry about that one...its was not my recommendation..unless you know an artist or like the stuff he or she produces I usually listen to samples or wait for a second confirmation before I spring for the cd....

Oh well based on all the really good recommendations it kind of averages out!! (ouch)..

Alex

 :duh:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: mathgeek97 on 19 Sep 2009, 04:51 am
This was one I stayed away from, only because Zappa is not my cup of tea!! :wink:

I wouldn't give up on Zappa.  Grab a copy of Hot Rats (1969), his first solo album.  A lot of great guitar and is a great early example of rock-jazz fusion.  All but one song are instrumental, so not too much to offend or weird you out.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 19 Sep 2009, 04:34 pm
Recommendation Demo Quality:

http://www.amazon.com/Sticks-Stones-Dave-Grusin/dp/B000008B3Z/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1253310286&sr=8-1

1988 Dave and Don Grusin's Sticks and Stones.
It's funny you mentioned Dave Grusin.
I haven't played him in quite some time, but this morning I "found" him in my collection and decided to fire up everything I had of his (before I noticed this thread). Although I don't have Sticks and Stones, I do have:
- The Gershwin Collection 1991
- Out of the Shadows 1987
- Night Lines 1984
- The Orchestral Album 1994
- Discovered Again 1976
- Migration 1989

They all have better sound quality than your "average" cd, but I'd give my tip-o-the-hat to Migration and The Gershwin Collection for overall superior sound quality.

Bob
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: TJC712 on 19 Sep 2009, 04:49 pm
Recommendation Demo Quality:

http://www.amazon.com/Sticks-Stones-Dave-Grusin/dp/B000008B3Z/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1253310286&sr=8-1

1988 Dave and Don Grusin's Sticks and Stones.
It's funny you mentioned Dave Grusin.
I haven't played him in quite some time, but this morning I "found" him in my collection and decided to fire up everything I had of his (before I noticed this thread). Although I don't have Sticks and Stones, I do have:
- The Gershwin Collection 1991
- Out of the Shadows 1987
- Night Lines 1984
- The Orchestral Album 1994
- Discovered Again 1976
- Migration 1989

They all have better sound quality than your "average" cd, but I'd give my tip-o-the-hat to Migration and The Gershwin Collection for overall superior sound quality.

Bob

Give a listen to Satin Doll on Grusin's Homage to Duke CD... Great sound!
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 19 Sep 2009, 09:49 pm
Cool,
I have Migration and Sticks and Stones is as good as if not better..both at nice.

I do not have the the Gershwin one but I will soon!

 aa

Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Rocket on 20 Sep 2009, 03:40 am
Hi,

I went to my local hifi store and heard a cd by Emiliana Torrini 'Me and Armini'.  I liked it that much on the way  home I bought it from a local cd store.  It was in the alternative section but I wouldn't describe the sound of this cd as that.

Quote
'Me And Armini' is a hugely ambitious and aspirational pop record with Emil?ana's soaring voice centre stage, bolstered by a rich gamut of musical styles. From the summery skank of the title track to the surging, breathless 'Jungle Drum' (released 29th September), the spine-tingling 'Big Jumps' and the cave singing of 'Gun' this is a truly fantastic album.

This cd is very well recorded and it passed the Salk Sound test i.e. quality sound in and great sound from the system.

Regards

Rod

Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 21 Sep 2009, 04:54 pm
I've been listening to "The Best of Basia" the past couple days.
Sounds like a good candidate for this thread to me, however I've been sick this week and not ready to trust my ears to use as a tool to spend someone else's money just yet.  :lol:

Can anyone confirm?

Bob
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 22 Sep 2009, 12:44 am
TJC712.

Steely Dan, Two Against Nature....very nice, very well done, this is really an awesome cd....

I guess I need to get the AJA cd.....tell me there is the original, a remastered version and dvd audio etc...which one?

Thanks much for this one...its that good!

Alex
 aa
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: TJC712 on 22 Sep 2009, 03:58 am
I've been listening to "The Best of Basia" the past couple days.
Sounds like a good candidate for this thread to me, however I've been sick this week and not ready to trust my ears to use as a tool to spend someone else's money just yet.  :lol:

Can anyone confirm?

Bob

I don't have the "Best Of",  but her "Time and Tide" as well as "London, Warsaw & NY" CD's sound great on my system and are worthy of consideration.  I remember when she first appeared back in the late 80's and I thought that she was a great vocalist back then.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 23 Sep 2009, 12:47 am
Sonic Heaven....

Oh my, I just had a really great time listening to 2 very different cd's that have been recommended. One was the Kirk Whalum - For You...this is a real treat, absolutley well balanced and mixed so, so well. This is a sensual cd that sounds great and is definitely demo quality. It has a few cuts that make the SongTowers really 'growl'....dang this cd is good. Get and enjoy the ride!!

The other cd was really different and I honestly had a hard time enjoying some of the tracks but the really different mix of sounds, instruments, bass and imaging overrode this and I hung in there and was pleasantly surprised.

It was Laurie Andersons - Life on A String. Wow is this a different cd. Its more like spoken words at times or melodic prose...but the imaging and clarity is wonderful.

This cd has some of the lowest and deepest bass I have ever heard my SongTowers reproduce, I was very much surprised to hear this low stuff...I thought that the prior cd has some really good low end stuff but this strange but wonderful cd blows that away...dang it was really great. I think track 5 Slip Away, is nothing but strings and it so different from all the rest of the tracks and its so really warm and the strings sound so much like well...REAL strings it changed my mood and its just so good...

I much preferred the Whalum cd as the type of music I really, really like in the jazz format...its so warm sensual and the sax sounds so much like a sax...go Kirk go!

Most will prefer Whalum the more grounded cd..but if you want good but different try Laurie Anderson...but dont say I didnt warn you!! :P

All the best
Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: 16hz lover on 23 Sep 2009, 01:44 am
Recommendation Demo Quality:

http://www.amazon.com/Sticks-Stones-Dave-Grusin/dp/B000008B3Z/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1253310286&sr=8-1

1988 Dave and Don Grusin's Sticks and Stones.

Seldom is there a cd that is demo quality and all the tracks on it are up to this high quality.

I have had this cd since 1988 and its a 10 of a 10. Its that good.
It can be had really on the cheap and its worth it.

Trust me if this cd does not make you smile and say WOW then you must not be breathing!!  :D

If you want to see how low and how well your SongTowers will go and perform start with track 8 "This little pig's got the blues" and hang on for the ride.

Go get this now!!!

All the best


Alex
 aa

Ordered this, got it in, it's fabulous, gave it to my son who has a killer stereo in his car....got a text " you're not getting this back " :D
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: 16hz lover on 23 Sep 2009, 01:49 am
Did anyone mention Bella Sonus?  the CD is called "Enamoured"   bass extends down into the low 20's. :icon_lol:....nice flamenco guitar too....just a great recording all around.

A subwoofer workout for sure. :thumb:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 23 Sep 2009, 02:13 am
I much preferred the Whalum cd as the type of music I really, really like in the jazz format...its so warm sensual and the sax sounds so much like a sax...
In that case, have you checked into the Marsalis Brothers?
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 23 Sep 2009, 02:51 am
Hi Bob,
I have the Magic Hour and its a demo quality cd for sure. I think I mentioned it back in May or so. I usually equate the Marsalis brothers as fusion jazz artists which is not my cup of tea, but this cd was done with the some of the jazz classics and its a traditional 4 piece quartet which I like alot.

16Hz...glad you like Dave Grusin, check out Migration as will its also very similiar and good. The GRP label in its day was targeted towards great artists like Lee Ritenour, Amanda McBroom, Thelma Houston, and lots more..check them out they all are pretty well done and depending on your tastes they still hold up very well after all these years for sure!!

Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: spectralman on 23 Sep 2009, 03:14 am
Hi All,

After reading all 24 pages, I thought I would throw in a few more that I really use when demoing new equipment or make changes in the system at home:

Diana Krall: Live In Paris, Let's Fall in Love.

Getz/Gilberto (SACD): self-titled, The Girl from Ipanema.

Misty River: Live at the Backgate Stage, just about anything on this CD.  Incredible female vocals/harmonizations in an Americana style.

Johannes Linstead: Guitarra Del Fuego, tracks 1, 3, and 4; great flamenco guitar.

Michael Stearns: The Lost World, tracks 1,2,5, and 7; sort of new age/world music, was on Absolute Sound's Must Have list a few year's ago; has some Really powerful LF stuff on it

Bela Fleck & The Flecktones: UFO Tofu, just about anything.  incredibly dynamic, with the incredible Victor Wooten on bass.  One of their older CDs.

Rebecca Pidgeon (SACD): The Raven, anything.  Great female vocals.

And some classical:

Beethoven Synphony No. 6 ("Pastorale") SACD, Bruno Walter cond. Columbia Symphony Orchestra.  Some of the best reproduction of strings I've heard.

Trittico, Reference Recording 52CD, Frederick Fennel cond. Dallas Wind Ensemble.  Yes, classical music can be dynamic and exciting.

Mephisto & Co., Reference Recording 82CD, Eiji Oue cond. Minnesota Orchestra.  Again, dynaic, exciting, with one of the best recordings of Dukas' "The Sorcerer's Apprentice" I've come across.

Bill
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Art_Chicago on 23 Sep 2009, 03:27 am
In that case, have you checked into the Marsalis Brothers?
Bob, any particular Cd's? Thanks. I really like your jazz recommendations.

Hi All,

And some classical:

Beethoven Synphony No. 6 ("Pastorale") SACD, Bruno Walter cond. Columbia Symphony Orchestra.  Some of the best reproduction of strings I've heard.

Trittico, Reference Recording 52CD, Frederick Fennel cond. Dallas Wind Ensemble.  Yes, classical music can be dynamic and exciting.

Mephisto & Co., Reference Recording 82CD, Eiji Oue cond. Minnesota Orchestra.  Again, dynaic, exciting, with one of the best recordings of Dukas' "The Sorcerer's Apprentice" I've come across.

Bill

Bill, nice recommendations!
You may also want to check the Classical Circle for this kind of music ( I do not know if this is Alex's "cup of tea" :shh:)
 :D

Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 23 Sep 2009, 11:15 am
In that case, have you checked into the Marsalis Brothers?
Bob, any particular Cd's? Thanks. I really like your jazz recommendations.
Sure Art!  aa
Jazz is one of my most favorite genres. I could go on for days.  :wink:

By Wynton Marsalis:
- Standard Time Volume 2
- The Magic Hour
Both are what I'd call "traditional" jazz. No fusion, or weird stuff. No "smooth" jazz, no electronic instruments. Classic. Most songs are long, slow and take their time. A 'must have' if you like trumpets. Sounds quality is very good on both counts. Goes well with a glass of red and you're alone.
---------------------------
By Branford Marsalis:
- I Heard You Twice The First Time
Um....Interesting eclectic mix of songs. Ranges from a blues duet with BB King, to some Dixieland jazz, to the chantings of a chain gang (interesting and worth hearing actually), to a guy yelling at passings taxis (?Kinda silly?), to well.....you might want to preview this one on Amazon before you buy. The sounds quality is a step down from the intension of this thread, but the price of admission is well worth the couple great songs on it.
- Comtemporary Jazz
- The Beautiful one's Are Not Yet Born
These two are very nice. Back to more "normal themed" albums. Traditional jazz with a fusion spin on a couple songs. Overall very nice, but there are a couple songs I skip over due to their eclectic/eccentric tempo (think of the band "The Bad Plus" for my definition of eclectic/eccentric). Very good sound quality.

Hope that helps!
Bob
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: BobM on 23 Sep 2009, 12:30 pm
Funny how opinions differ. I find Branford Marsalis some of the most difficult jazz to understand or get into. He's taking Coltrane stylings to a new level. Wall of sound indeed. In fact, it's one of the few concerts that I have actually walked out of early.

As for Wynton - you either love him or hate him. I fall into the latter camp, liking maybe 1 out of every 20 of his songs.

The Marsalis clan is making a statement, but it's definitely not for me.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 23 Sep 2009, 01:14 pm
That's alright Bob. I'll still let you be my friend.  :P :wink:

Bob
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Art_Chicago on 24 Sep 2009, 02:52 am
Recommendation Demo Quality:

http://www.amazon.com/Sticks-Stones-Dave-Grusin/dp/B000008B3Z/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1253310286&sr=8-1

1988 Dave and Don Grusin's Sticks and Stones.

Seldom is there a cd that is demo quality and all the tracks on it are up to this high quality.

I have had this cd since 1988 and its a 10 of a 10. Its that good.
It can be had really on the cheap and its worth it.

Trust me if this cd does not make you smile and say WOW then you must not be breathing!!  :D

If you want to see how low and how well your SongTowers will go and perform start with track 8 "This little pig's got the blues" and hang on for the ride.

Go get this now!!!

All the best


Alex
 aa

Ordered this, got it in, it's fabulous, gave it to my son who has a killer stereo in his car....got a text " you're not getting this back " :D

Hey, I just got it, too. And it is disappointing. The sound quality is simply great (demo CD, indeed, Alex), but I guess I am not into disco-jazz (not sure if such a genre exists)  :(
Anyone who is planning to get it, sample it first. I did not look hard enough to find the samples, and got a used CD for 0.99 plus shipping from Amazon. Not a bad deal if you like this kind of music...
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 24 Sep 2009, 09:51 pm
Art,

I understand how you feel about this type of music I feel the same way about other styles as well, but many will like it as well...I cant get enough if it...I wouldnt call it disco jazz, and I personally do not have a inkling for disco at all. But be what it is, its well recorded and has a very wide dynamic range etc agree its a demo cd for sure by my standards.

Now Grusin has Gershwin cds that are as well done but some of us will not like these as well as 'those' etc..this is what makes this pastime neat.

I forget who made the comment about classical music not being my cup of tea, but its ok to post the recommendations if you think its demo quality because I dont want to miss out on these for those that are into classical stuff.

Kee them coming!

All the best
Alex
 aa


Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: fishinbob on 24 Sep 2009, 11:41 pm
Thanks Alex....

Just got this in the mail.
Probably the finest sounding recording of the violin I have heard .... period. Played on a 1714 Strad called the "Dolphin", the sound is incredible on SACD
What a treat for my ribbons :thumb:

                                                                                   (http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=22246)
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 25 Sep 2009, 12:16 am
Hey fishinbob!

Thanks for this one, looks good! I will look into this one for sure!

Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Art_Chicago on 26 Sep 2009, 02:03 am
In that case, have you checked into the Marsalis Brothers?
Bob, any particular Cd's? Thanks. I really like your jazz recommendations.
Sure Art!  aa
Jazz is one of my most favorite genres. I could go on for days.  :wink:

By Wynton Marsalis:
- Standard Time Volume 2
- The Magic Hour
Both are what I'd call "traditional" jazz. No fusion, or weird stuff. No "smooth" jazz, no electronic instruments. Classic. Most songs are long, slow and take their time. A 'must have' if you like trumpets. Sounds quality is very good on both counts. Goes well with a glass of red and you're alone.
---------------------------
By Branford Marsalis:
- I Heard You Twice The First Time
Um....Interesting eclectic mix of songs. Ranges from a blues duet with BB King, to some Dixieland jazz, to the chantings of a chain gang (interesting and worth hearing actually), to a guy yelling at passings taxis (?Kinda silly?), to well.....you might want to preview this one on Amazon before you buy. The sounds quality is a step down from the intension of this thread, but the price of admission is well worth the couple great songs on it.
- Comtemporary Jazz
- The Beautiful one's Are Not Yet Born
These two are very nice. Back to more "normal themed" albums. Traditional jazz with a fusion spin on a couple songs. Overall very nice, but there are a couple songs I skip over due to their eclectic/eccentric tempo (think of the band "The Bad Plus" for my definition of eclectic/eccentric). Very good sound quality.

Hope that helps!
Bob
Thanks a lot, Bob, I checked out the Magic Hour and it's definitively my kind of jazz :thumb: Have you heard metamorphosen by Branford? it sounds good ( even in mp3) I will pick  a few  CDs by the Marsalis family from the local library!
Have you heard Anat Cohen's Noir and Notes from the village? While the SQ is probably B+, the music is great, just great!Check them out.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Art_Chicago on 26 Sep 2009, 02:24 am
Art,

I understand how you feel about this type of music I feel the same way about other styles as well, but many will like it as well...I cant get enough if it...I wouldnt call it disco jazz, and I personally do not have a inkling for disco at all. But be what it is, its well recorded and has a very wide dynamic range etc agree its a demo cd for sure by my standards.

Now Grusin has Gershwin cds that are as well done but some of us will not like these as well as 'those' etc..this is what makes this pastime neat.

I forget who made the comment about classical music not being my cup of tea, but its ok to post the recommendations if you think its demo quality because I dont want to miss out on these for those that are into classical stuff.

Kee them coming!

All the best
Alex
 aa




Alex, I am not sure how to respond. My point is you can keep this thread open for everyone and avoid statements like "Trust me if this cd does not make you smile and say WOW then you must not be breathing" and focus on the sound qualtiy only. I know it is HARD  to like well recorderd music that you do not like. That's what I feel about Stones and Sticks. It may not be a disco-jazz, but I have not come up with a better definition. Sorry if it offended you, I did not mean that.
Regards,
Art
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 26 Sep 2009, 02:53 am
Hey Art...

No offense taken...nuff said the comment i made about you must be not breathing was made in jest..keep posting all those great cds that you think worth posting whether I like them or not! That be modern, classical, disco jazz or whatever catgegory they may be in...as long as they are good thats what this thread is all about!

Working on digesting a Geroge Gershwin cd right now!!

All the best
Alex
 aa

Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 28 Sep 2009, 02:00 am
Ok,

One of the recent recommentations was "Homage to Duke" by Dave Grusin. Thanks to TJC712!! :D

This is a demo quality cd, for the quality and the content.

What a wonderful sonic dream!

Track 3 , Satin Doll
Track 5, Just Squeeze Me
Track 9, Sophisticated Lady
Tracl 10, Talk the A Train..

ok...they all are classics and all are good.
The piano harmonics and overtones are to die for.
The drum whacks, the image and depth are sweet!


Everyone should have a classic cd like this, Duke ...this is out of the  American Music book...simply timeless.
It is a sonic picture of a time long past.... aa

Maybe not everyone will like the big band sound, I know when I was younger this would not be something I would appreciate....man am I glad I can appreciate this now.

This is a cd to take to your audition for new speakers or whatever!!

All the best
Alex
 aa
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: modode on 1 Oct 2009, 04:49 pm
Enjoying the thread tremendously.  Couldn't agree more with many of the recommendations listed, including Allison Krauss, Joss Stone, Dire Straights, the Cowboy Junkies, Steely Dan, etc.  Many others I'm not familiar with but plan to check out.

A few I didn't see mentioned, but worth listening to thru excellent speakers such as Salks:

Beck.  This man's musical genius is underrated and overlooked by many.  The creativity and diversity of the music he creates is amazing.  All his albums are great, but recommend demo'ing his "Mutations" CD, especially the track "Tropicalia".

Soul Coughing.  Admittedly, this is not everyone's cup of tea.  An unusual alternative 90's band described by one critic as "Deep Slacker Jazz".  Do yourself a favor and listen just for the excellent stand-up bass, if nothing else.  Check out the tracks "Super Bon Bon" from the album "Irresistible Bliss", and "Uh, Zoom Zip" from the album "Ruby Vroom".

Paul Simon.  Surprised to see him not mentioned here.  "Still Crazy after All These Years" never gets old, nor does the (very different) "The Rhythm of the Saints".

Lloyd Cole and the Commotions.  The first thirty seconds of the song "Are You Ready to Be Heartbroken" are some of the most beautiful I've ever heard thru fine speakers.

Shawn Colvin.  I can't recommend her debut album "Steady On" strongly enough.  One of my favorite albums of all time, an acoustic masterpiece.  Strong vocals and guitar, emotionally raw.  The first three tracks still give me chills years later.



Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 2 Oct 2009, 01:39 am
modode,

I am glad your enjoying the thread, its good to hear from people like yourself that have found some really good cds to listen and to experience.

Thanks for your recommendations, Beck is familiar to me but I have none of his material, Shawn Colvin is an unknown to me..I look forward to listening to these artists and I will get back to you on my impressions.

Again Welcome and keep those awesome cd recommendations coming!!

All the Best!

Alex
 aa
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Art_Chicago on 2 Oct 2009, 03:03 am
Alex,
I just received "Homage to Duke" and I really liked it  :thumb: Excellent sound quality, too.

Modode, thanks, I am going to check out your recommendations. I like Shawn Colvin as they broadcast her on the 93.1 FM WXRT (Chicago) quite often.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: charmerci on 3 Oct 2009, 10:31 am

 That's what I feel about Stones and Sticks.


Uh, that's Styx and Stones!  :wink:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: mathgeek97 on 3 Oct 2009, 05:58 pm
A few I didn't see mentioned, but worth listening to thru excellent speakers such as Salks:

Paul Simon.  Surprised to see him not mentioned here.  "Still Crazy after All These Years" never gets old, nor does the (very different) "The Rhythm of the Saints".

At the mention of Paul Simon, I pulled out a copy of Graceland, which I haven't touched in a long time.  Conclusion: "Diamonds on the Souls of Her Shoes" is a great track for showing off my HT2-TLs.  A Capella singing from Ladysmith Black Mambazo sounds clear and articulate and about as good as hearing them live.  The fretless bass playing is amazing and really needs a musical lower-end coming from a good set of speakers to really shine.  Take THAT, all you one-note-bass-playing speakers!  My Salks rule :)
-Kevin

(Yikes, I sound like a Salk fanboy!  Point is, I think a track like this will help to differentiate different models of speakers.)
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 5 Oct 2009, 12:19 am
Hey Guys/Gals...been gone for a few days vacationing in the Blue Ridge Mountains and just got back.

I have several cd's coming in this week, mostly recommendations from the past week or so.

Art..glad you liked the Homage to Duke...its really a treat for sure!  aa

Mathgeek97..yes Paul Simons Graceland is pretty good !!

Hope to post in a few days!!

All the best!
Alex
 :D
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 8 Oct 2009, 01:25 pm
Hello,

I discovered several cds that I have never listened to at all. Some have been around for a few years!

The one I listened to last night was Spyrogyra's " The Deep End". This was done in 2004.

I grew up with these guys and have been to at least 4 of their concerts, so yes I am biased towards this type of jazz and group.

They have 20+ albums out.

In the search for really great cds of demo quality I have not considered many of the early cd's to be of demo quality, even though I like the content very much.

I discovered that the later recordings are very well done and this is a great example of a demo quality CD from Spyrogyra.

Dave Samuels re-appears on this cd on the vibes and he is awesome.

The great thing is this can be bought on Amazon for less than $5! What a deal.

I know this type of jazz may not be your cup of tea, but I think many of you will really enjoy the content and the sounds!

All the best
Alex
 aa
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 9 Oct 2009, 05:36 pm
Congratulations to ALL!!

We have passed the 20,000 views to this thread!!

I hope its been of help to many of you in selecting some really great audio CDs!

Please keep the posts coming!!

All the best
Alex aa
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 9 Oct 2009, 11:24 pm
Shawn Colvin's "Steady On".

Just finished listening to this artist. Sounds really good, the voice at times reminds me of Allison Krauss. Overall its a really good listen at times, what I mean is there are cuts that are really well done, demo quality but others that are close but not really demo quality.

If your looking for another female vocalist this may be it, I have read that there is a follow on CD called Live 88 which has 8 of the ten songs on it that is supposed to be a better recording. I have it on the way and will post the differences later.

Anyone else listen to this CD? The lyrics and songs for the most part are really good, its just a bit lacking at times in the demo part.

All the best
Alex
 aa
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: TJC712 on 10 Oct 2009, 10:39 pm
Just listened to the Michael Garson CD Serendipity which is a Keith Johnson reference recording from 1986... very well done. Great sound, very innovative piano work... lots of it.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 10 Oct 2009, 11:04 pm
TJC712.

Good Recommendation, for some reason this is very familiar to me, I may actually have it in my collection, with over 300+ cds its getting harder to keep them all straight and organized...maybe its FLAC time for me!!  :wink:

I watched an Aimee Mann DVD in 5.1 sound today and it was very nice, the DVD has a normal cd as well and I will listen to it and see if its demo quality!.

Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: ctouhey on 11 Oct 2009, 03:16 am
TJC712.

Good Recommendation, for some reason this is very familiar to me, I may actually have it in my collection, with over 300+ cds its getting harder to keep them all straight and organized...maybe its FLAC time for me!![snip}Alex

I remember when my CD collection hit 300 in the very early 80s.  Got broken into and they were all gone.  Had a few things that were out of print even then.  They took the Coke, but not the Diet Coke; the  Boone's Farm and MD 20/20 (left over from a 60s party) but left the Bordeaux.  Gotta love kids...

Chris
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 12 Oct 2009, 12:33 am
The Aimee Mann cd that is included in the DVD.

http://www.amazon.com/Aimee-Mann-Live-Warehouse-Bonus/dp/B00064VQW6/ref=sr_1_13?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1255307448&sr=8-13 

The cd is very well done for a live recording and the kick drum.. when it comes in is very, very nice...the overall song quality on many of the tracks are superb.

The 'Save Me' track is awesome.

All the best
Alex

 aa
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: K Shep on 12 Oct 2009, 05:00 am
I listened to this tonight at low volume, great stuff.

Tracy Thorn - Out of the Woods
http://www.amazon.com/Out-Woods-Tracey-Thorn/dp/B000KJTCS2/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1255323552&sr=1-1

Kirk
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: ramsey86 on 14 Oct 2009, 01:23 pm
Last night got connected with Ian Hunter Artful Dodger (at 70ish he is still rockin') followed by Pinmonkey's first CD, (nice new country vocals) the Songtowers and AVA ultra set up was right there. Lots of smiles, found myself trying to sing along.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 14 Oct 2009, 02:31 pm
ramsey86,

So cool!! Thanks for sharing...I never heard of Ian Hunter...and or Pinmonkey... I will look into these!

All the best
Alex
 aa

Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: TJC712 on 15 Oct 2009, 12:09 pm
ramsey86,

So cool!! Thanks for sharing...I never heard of Ian Hunter...and or Pinmonkey... I will look into these!

All the best
Alex
 aa

Alex:

Ian Hunter... Mott the Hoople.... All the Young Dudes...  C'mon man, you were around in the 70's (my HS days).  Brings back memories.....

Anyway, this brought me back to older times and I was just listening to Dylan's Blood on the Tracks(hybrid SACD). Although I do find myself getting lost in the lyrics, I found the audio quality to sound quite good on many of the tracks. A good listen for anyone with an appreciation of My. Dylan.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 17 Oct 2009, 01:37 am
Ok,

I am listening to Richard Elliot's "Take to the Skies".

Mellow, Seductive, Groovy...Moody...and yes demo quality.

Enjoy!

Alex
 aa
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 18 Oct 2009, 12:08 am
tjc712...

Yes I was around in the 70's but its amazing on how I really dont remember these guys..Matt the Hoople is familiar, but I did a discography search and I can honestly say "who are these guys!!" Guess after the Beatels, The Stones, Joni Mitchell and Don Mc Leans 'American Pie' this must be the day this music died for me!

 :drums:

Alex...smiling a bit and still trying to remember!!

Note: Aimee Manns "@#%&*! Smilers" is playing and its pretty good!
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: fishinbob on 21 Oct 2009, 12:33 pm
For a classical moment may I suggest...

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=23716)   excellent Vivaldi and two discs to boot....just short of stunning at
                                                                                                       times.

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=23717)   Big soundstage and precise imaging. Very engaging, especially on SACD. No lullaby.

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=23008) and thanks to TYSON for this. :kiss: 

 :thumb:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 21 Oct 2009, 02:16 pm
Hey Bob!

Thanks for the classical recommendations, I like the 'short of stunning' descriptor!

I will look into the Vivaldi and get my feet wet with some outstanding classical stuf..

Again many thanks!!

Alex
 :)
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: charmerci on 22 Oct 2009, 08:27 pm
OK Alex,

Twenty-five pages and almost 21,000 views! :rock:

Maybe it's time for an alphabetical index! :D
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 22 Oct 2009, 10:31 pm
Way Cool!

Soon it will be over 30,000 views!! Hooray!

I'm so glad to be a part of all this great music!!

And to think it all started with a search for the best speakers for $2k or so and finding Nuance's journey stuff on AVS Forums..

A call to Jim, an order for some Songs's and what to do in the wait time! Well start a thread on outstanding cd's!

My cd collection has grown in the last year and I have finally started digitizing it and have a new Squeezebox Touch coming in December!!

Hope to again to start posting more recommendations in a few more days, I am trying to get the ripping done etc...

Keep posting you all!


Thanks

Alex
 aa
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: charmerci on 23 Oct 2009, 09:48 am
As I'm still stuck with only with a set of headphones, this one seems to sound fantastic -

Brian Wilson's Smile.


I'm pretty sure - but not absolutely positive that I've seen anybody suggest any of these artists with suggestions of great sounding recordings. I think that there are a few within these artists....

Talking Heads
 Neil Young
 Stevie Wonder
 CSN(Y)
 Van Morrison
 Joni Mitchell
 Eric Clapton
 Sting
 Aretha Franklin

Anyone?
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: martyo on 23 Oct 2009, 12:40 pm
Quote
As I'm still stuck with only with a set of headphones, this one seems to sound fantastic -

Brian Wilson's Smile.


I'm pretty sure - but not absolutely positive that I've seen anybody suggest any of these artists with suggestions of great sounding recordings. I think that there are a few within these artists....

Talking Heads
 Neil Young
 Stevie Wonder
 CSN(Y)
 Van Morrison
 Joni Mitchell
 Eric Clapton
 Sting
 Aretha Franklin

Anyone?

David Crosbys; If I Could Only Remember My Name.
Coming out again on vinyl 11-10-2009

Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: S Clark on 23 Oct 2009, 01:26 pm
As I'm still stuck with only with a set of headphones, this one seems to sound fantastic -

Brian Wilson's Smile.


I'm pretty sure - but not absolutely positive that I've seen anybody suggest any of these artists with suggestions of great sounding recordings. I think that there are a few within these artists....

Talking Heads
 Neil Young
 Stevie Wonder
 CSN(Y)
 Van Morrison
 Joni Mitchell
 Eric Clapton
 Sting
 Aretha Franklin

Anyone?
Sting's "Brand New Day" and "Mercury Falling" are very well recorded.  Most of his stuff is pretty well done. 
I have a couple of Joni Mitchell cd's that don't match up well to the vinyl.
Can't speak to the rest of your list.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: fishinbob on 23 Oct 2009, 04:20 pm

 Sting's "Brand New Day" and "Mercury Falling" are very well recorded.  Most of his stuff is pretty well done. 

+1
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 23 Oct 2009, 04:24 pm
Hello,

I can speak to the Joni Mitchell part, somewhat.

I have mentioned "Miles of Aisles" the I really like and its a great cd, maybe not as good as vinyl.

But I would say its not really up to the 'demo' standard....good but not great.

I am being cautious here because some of us (me included) tend to bias our opinion on whether something is demo quality based on our past experiences.

I grew up with Joni Mitchell and her voice etc and really like the style etc...

What I would hope someone would do is to chime in on any of her later cd's / recording and see if these are demo quality....

All the best
Alex

Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 23 Oct 2009, 04:25 pm
sorry double post?

Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Don_S on 23 Oct 2009, 04:43 pm
Hello,

I can speak to the Joni Mitchell part, somewhat.

I have mentioned "Miles of Aisles" the I really like and its a great cd, maybe not as good as vinyl.

But I would say its not really up to the 'demo' standard....good but not great.

I am being cautious here because some of us (me included) tend to bias our opinion on whether something is demo quality based on our past experiences.

I grew up with Joni Mitchell and her voice etc and really like the style etc...

What I would hope someone would do is to chime in on any of her later cd's / recording and see if these are demo quality....

All the best
Alex


Alex,  I agree with your assessment of "Miles of Aisles".  The same applies to her earlier works--great music but not "demo standard".  I am not familiar with her latest recordings.  I was a great fan when I was young and so was she but we went different directions on our music tastes.  Actually Joni Mitchell went in a different direction---I stayed the same wonderful person.  :jester:

Joni was always more of an artist than a performer so her albums were high quality.  As I said, I am not familiar with her latest work but I own and feel that "Chalk Mark in a Rain Storm" and "Dog eat Dog" are reference quality with excellent clarity and great dynamics. However, the choice of songs leaves something to be desired--at least for me. But Joni Mitchell's voice shines on both and saves the day.

Anybody have any experience with reissues of "Blue"?
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 23 Oct 2009, 05:03 pm
Thanks Don..

I will look in to these releases as soon as I get done with the digitizing process.

Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Srgtfury on 24 Oct 2009, 06:32 am
Listening to The Steve Davis Project-Quality of Silence, track 11 at approx. 1"36". when the horn grace notes upward, at listening spot, 92-93db at that point, and the notes from the horn are clear and precise , on my Ht3's, Arcam AVR600 as PrePro and Halo A51 biamped 2 channel listening.  Boosting the volume level on the Arcam from 67 to 69 level, gives 93-94db at the same listening level, same position on the track 11, gives significant distortion in the horn notes. Now, I don't ever listen at that level, but with al the "Silence" going on, I boosted the volume.  At any rate, can anyone try out the passage-there are others on the same track too, for comparison.  I know some of you have the Ht3's and A51, also.

Thank you very much

Fury
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 25 Oct 2009, 05:14 pm
Hey Srgtfury,

I dont have that material or combination of gear.

I did go listen to the samples and this seems like its a really good cd.

You might want to comment on the quality of this recording as well.

Alex
 :D
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Srgtfury on 25 Oct 2009, 06:22 pm
Hi alex,
o
This is clearly a demo quality recording, IMHO, as others have posted above.  I ordered it from Amazon, based on the posts earlier in your thread and can also endorse the recording quality as top notch on my system.  I realize that the DB level I tried out was way over the top, but the observation is reproducible.  I am going to try to remove the woofer from the setup, by disconnecting the speaker wires, but I really don't think that there was that much low frequency present to cause clipping.  I'd like to know what others think of same section at the same DB level on their various systems, however.

Thank you very much

Fury
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 26 Oct 2009, 02:16 am
Hello,

In the process of digitizing my collection I came across a selection from a friend in NY, Mr. Lonewolfe..(lol)...and  I dont usually listen to this type of music...you know the old 'not my cup of tea' but I forced myself anyhow... :duh:

Its a movie sountrack by John Horner, "Glory".

On the SongTowers....this is absolutely an awesome piece. I never have seen the movie,  but I really think I know what to expect when I finally get to see it.

The sound is so transparent and wonderful, the mood can catch you and the fifes and drums are very well done.

Classical, orchestral , whatever its demo good.

Thanks to Mr. Wolf!!

All the best
Alex
 aa



Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: zybar on 26 Oct 2009, 02:21 am
Hello,

In the process of digitizing my collection I came across a selection from a friend in NY, Mr. Lonewolfe..(lol)...and  I dont usually listen to this type of music...you know the old 'not my cup of tea' but I forced myself anyhow... :duh:

Its a movie sountrack by John Horner, "Glory".

On the SongTowers....this is absolutely an awesome piece. I never have seen the movie,  but I really think I know what to expect when I finally get to see it.

The sound is so transparent and wonderful, the mood can catch you and the fifes and drums are very well done.

Classical, orchestral , whatever its demo good.

Thanks to Mr. Wolf!!

All the best
Alex
 aa

Go watch the movie - it is excellent and won two or three Oscars.

George
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: lonewolfny42 on 26 Oct 2009, 02:31 am
Alex...
Quote
On the SongTowers....this is absolutely an awesome piece.

Glad you got to that one Alex....it is very good... 8)

And the vocals are by the Boys Choir of Harlem (also known as the Harlem Boys Choir) ....heavenly....good stuff. :angel:

Link....Glory...Soundtrack...1990 (http://www.amazon.com/Glory Soundtrack-Original-Motion-Picture-Soundtrack/dp/B000000WH5)
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: ctouhey on 26 Oct 2009, 05:03 am
I'm wondering how folks are capturing their CDs.  A few years ago, the best methodolgy was using Exact Audo Copy to do the extraction and the LAME encoder to do the compression.  Wondering what folks who are streaming music are using these days.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 26 Oct 2009, 04:47 pm
ctouchey,

This is covered in the Discless Circle. Check it out.

I have several posts on this topic as well.

Be glad to converse with you over there or PM.

Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 27 Oct 2009, 06:38 pm
Hello,

I recently listened to Shawn Colvins " Steady On" and I thought it was really well done, its a little 'reverb' live, meaning like a concert like sound, good but a little less sudio like I am used to.

It has more of that polished feel, with more instruments in the ensemble.

The Live 88 acd which has many of the same songs has been touted as a 5 star demo classic by reviewers.

Well its really good, but their is a stark difference between the two cds.

The sound on the Live 88 sound is just Shawn Colvin and her guitar. Simple and sweet.
The voice is really nice, the guitar sounds very real, you can hear her 'chair' squeaking and moving...

Both are really great...I am glad I ahve both because they both are really pretty nice

All the best
Alex
 aa
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: TJC712 on 28 Oct 2009, 12:48 am
TJC712,

Morph the Cat - Donald Fagan....got the 2 disc version. I only listened to the 2 ch disc, not the high res version, yet.

What to say:

WOW, Gorgeous, Lucious, Fantastic, Great, Awesome....

Whoever recorded and or mixed this cd has their act together.
This is a 10 out of a 10 CD.

Jim Salk, many of these selections could be demo selections for your Salk demo discs for sure.

The overall presentation is excellent, the sounds are crisp and clear, the imaging etc is just first class.

Even though I am not a real Donald Fagan fan this is a must have cd.

I need to know if any other if his cds are of this high caliber quality??

Help!!

All the best
Alex

NOTE: I have to say that on the SongTowers this is a real treat!!

This is why it was considered to be a "badge of honor" for a musician to make it to the final cut of any track on a Steely Dan/Donald Fagan album. Fagan's a noted mental case in getting the sound "just right". Pick up SD's Two Against Nature and Fagan's Nightfly. You will enjoy!

If you are still looking into Fagan/Steely Dan material, pick up Fagan's Kamakiriad... tight, funky, crisp... demo material for sure... just listened to that for the 1st time in a long while.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: capwkidd on 29 Oct 2009, 01:47 am
Anyone know what song / artist they where playing in the MLB room in RMAF? I hear that the artist might be called La Bamba... anyone have info? Seemed like a good demo track to me!

Anyone know the guys name that was running the show in the MLB room (with the glasses)?

Did anyone hear the chinese drum disc in the Monarchy/Lenehan audio room? I actually purchased that one....

Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 29 Oct 2009, 02:35 pm
Quote from: TJC712 link=topic=63936.msg686627#msg686627 [quote
If you are still looking into Fagan/Steely Dan material, pick up Fagan's Kamakiriad... tight, funky, crisp... demo material for sure... just listened to that for the 1st time in a long while.
Ditto that.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 29 Oct 2009, 03:32 pm
Ok help me out here there are a few to choose from on Amazon...remastered, import, the el cheapo original etc...which one to get?

Thanks
Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 29 Oct 2009, 11:57 pm
Just listened to Rebecca Pidgeon, The Raven.

I have the SACD version but with my OPPO BD 83 listened to the 2 ch tracks and then to the SACD tracks in DSD and PCM.

I much preferred the 2 ch tracks over the SACD ones.

The disc is demo quality for sure, the voice is marvelous and the sounds of the strings, drums etc are so sweet.

Thanks for this recommndation, its AWESOME!

Alex
 aa
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: TJC712 on 30 Oct 2009, 03:28 am
Ok help me out here there are a few to choose from on Amazon...remastered, import, the el cheapo original etc...which one to get?

Thanks
Alex

Mine's just the older original (cheapo) cd... Sounds great. Can't imagine anything sounding too much better.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 31 Oct 2009, 03:13 pm
Same here. Mine aren't any type of "special edition".
Alex, if you'd like, I can dig them out and get you the SKU. That'll get you the exact "edition".

Bob
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 1 Nov 2009, 01:01 am
I have a copy of the original cd, plain jane et at..np lets she how it sounds!!

Alex

Thanks to everyone!
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: fishinbob on 7 Nov 2009, 04:28 am
                         Buy this one if only to play track 17, the Trumpet Voluntary by Jeremiah Clarke. 
(http://)  This piece gives me the chills.         
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: capwkidd on 7 Nov 2009, 05:44 am
Could you give us a pic big enough to read, or just tell use the CD title? How about a URL? Sample tracks would be nice. Thanks.

                         Buy this one if only to play track 17, the Trumpet Voluntary by Jeremiah Clarke. 
(http://)  This piece gives me the chills.         
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: lonewolfny42 on 7 Nov 2009, 05:47 am
http://www.amazon.com/Baroque-Music-Brass-Tomaso-Albinoni/dp/B00009NH8O/ref=sr_1_20?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1257572795&sr=1-20  ....... :thumb:


Could you give us a pic big enough to read, or just tell use the CD title? How about a URL? Sample tracks would be nice. Thanks.

                         Buy this one if only to play track 17, the Trumpet Voluntary by Jeremiah Clarke. 
(http://)  This piece gives me the chills.         
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: satfrat on 7 Nov 2009, 05:55 am
Could you give us a pic big enough to read, or just tell use the CD title? How about a URL? Sample tracks would be nice. Thanks.

                         Buy this one if only to play track 17, the Trumpet Voluntary by Jeremiah Clarke. 
(http://)  This piece gives me the chills.         
  Baroque Music for Brass and Organ: Various Artists (2003) 
(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41B0BJW575L._SS500_.jpg)
 
 Samples   (http://www.amazon.com/gp/recsradio/radio/B00009NH8O/ref=pd_krex_listen_dp_img?ie=UTF8&refTagSuffix=dp_img)
 
Cheers,
Robin
 
 
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: fishinbob on 7 Nov 2009, 12:29 pm
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=23532)

PS: At present, the SACD hybrid version can be had new for a mere $3.99 +S&H.  :thumb:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 7 Nov 2009, 02:58 pm
Such a Deal!

$3.99 for a SACD , DSD hybrid, on order, thanks much for the recommendation!!

All the best
Alex
 aa
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Art_Chicago on 7 Nov 2009, 04:05 pm
Such a Deal!

$3.99 for a SACD , DSD hybrid, on order, thanks much for the recommendation!!

All the best
Alex
 aa


+1!
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: vintagebob on 7 Nov 2009, 04:14 pm
Such a Deal!

$3.99 for a SACD , DSD hybrid, on order, thanks much for the recommendation!!

All the best
Alex
 aa

+2
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: charmerci on 7 Nov 2009, 08:38 pm
Forget the 30 second sound bites. Go to www.musicme.com to listen to the whole album.

It's a French site but you'll be able to figure out how to use it. (Probably the only word you'll need translated- "titres" means titles)

Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 8 Nov 2009, 02:21 pm
Charmerci,

Thanks for that link!

Let me ask the crowd this:

Looking at the Verve label, there are many artists that have been mentioned in this thread in one way or another.

My question is: Looking at the artists that record on this label, are there any really outstanding cds that are of demo quality?

So dig thru your Verve recordings and let us know!

All the best!
Alex
 :)



Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: mathgeek97 on 8 Nov 2009, 06:50 pm
So dig thru your Verve recordings and let us know!

I'm voting for the 2003 release of John Coltrane - A Love Supreme.  (However, it was originally recorded for Impulse! records.)
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 9 Nov 2009, 01:24 am
Thanks for the recommendation mathgeek97...

Amazon is having a 3 for$30 sale on VERVE cds right now!

Keep the VERVE recommendations coming in!!

Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 12 Nov 2009, 03:57 pm
Hello!

The holidays are fast approaching and I hope you all will have time to listen and post any new 'gems' out there for us all to explore and enjoy!

I am working on a list of all of the recommendations in this thread and will post when it is complete!

Its quite a list, but it will be nice to have a list to help people from reading the many pages in this thread..although its nice to read the comments from all the wonderful people that have contributed to this thread...

I hope to have this list up in a few days!

All the Best
Alex
 aa
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: jsalk on 12 Nov 2009, 08:09 pm
Alex -

Thanks for all the great work on this! 

I guess I'll have to dust off a credit card and get on Amazon when you post your list.

- Jim
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 13 Nov 2009, 12:34 am
Ok gang....Here is PART 1

I had to split this up due to the 10,000 character limitationin posting on the board.
I have this in chronological order based on PAGE in the thread.
This way you can go back and read the comments of the person posting etc...

If someone wants to put this in a spreadsheet so you can sort but name, album etc..this would be nice, but its a lot of work to get there.but I would think it would not be that difficult to do this if if desired.

I know I might have some mis-spellings etc, but its close enough to identify the recommendations.

Lots of great stocking stuffers for sure!!


PAGE 1:


Richard Souther "Cross Currents" New Age (Mary's Question and transition into High Tide)

Kitaro-Cirque "Ingenieux"- New Age Electronic

James Newton Howard "James Newtom Howard and Friends" - Jazz
David Benoit "Waiting for Spring" - Jazz (Some Other Sunset. My Romance)

Donald Fagen "Nightfly" Walk Between the Raindrops, The Goodbye Look, Ruby Baby

Steely Dan "Aja"
Steely Dan "Two Against Nature"

Tony Bennett "There's a Small Hotel" (Rogers and Hart Songbook)

Bobby McFerrin "Freedom is a Voice"
 
Shirley Horn "Hers to Life" (Return to Paradise)

Willie Nelson and Wynton Marsalis "Two Men With the Blues" (concert) 

Blood Sweat & Tears "Blood Sweat & Tears" (God Bless the Child)

Esperanza Spalding "Esperanza CD" (Precious)

Lenny Kravitz "Its Time For A Love Revolution" (This moment Is All There Is)

Nora Jones "Come Away With Me" (Cold, Cold Heart)

Sting "Mercury Falling" (I Was Brought to my Senses)

Tony Corbiscello "Real Time" (As If We Never Said Goodbye)...  Big Band (Top shelf trumpet playing)

Jazz at the Pawnshop - Various Artists

Steve Bach "More Than A Dream"

Wynton Marsalis "The Magic Hour" (Feeling of Jazz)

The Bad Plus "These Are the Vistas" (Keep the Bugs Off Your Glass And The Bears Off Your Ass)

Bozzio, Levin, Stevens "Blacl Light Syndrome" (Duende)

Ben Harper "Fight For Your Mind" (Gold To Me)

Morphine "Cure for Pain" (Buena)

Nils Lofgren "Acoustic Live" (Keith Don't Go)

Mino Cinelu "Mino Cinelu" (Oncoming Horizons)

Copland "Fanfare For the Comman Man" Louis Lane, and Atlanta Symphony Orchestra on Telarc

Ben Vaughn "Designs in Music" (Too Happy"

Rimsky-Korsakov "Dance of the Tumblers" Eiji Oue/Minnesota Orch

Dean Peer "Think" (Its All Good)

Weather Report "Sportin' Life" (Confians)

Bernadette Peters "I'll Be Your Baby Tonight" (Blackbird)

ZZ Top "Tres Hombres" (La Grange)

Dave Grusin "Discovered Again"

Vienna Tang "Waking Hour"

Lyle Lovette "Joshua Judges Ruth"

Dave Grusin 'Homage to Duke"

Thelma Houston "I've Got the Music In Me"

Dead Can Dance "Boxed Set"



PAGE2:

Ry Cooder "Paradise and Lunch"

Flim and The BB's "TriCycle", "Big Notes", "Tunnel"

Kim Pensyl "Sketches 1", 'Sketches 2", "Sketches 3"

Roberta Flack "Quiet Fire" (Get Up Moses)

Rhythm Devils "The Apocalypse Now Sessions" (Napalm for Breakfast)

Bad Company "Bad Company" (Seagull, Hell..)

Leon Russell "Leon Russell" (A Song For You) A DCC gold disc mastered by Steve Hoffman

Cowboy Junkies "Trinity Sessions"

Stanley Turrentine "Stan the Man" SHM-CD

Rolling Stones "Let It Bleed" SHM-CD

Patricia Barber "A Fortnight in France"

Linda Ronstadt "Round Midnight" Nelson Riddle Songs, 2 cd set

Spyrogyra "Off the Deep End"

Holly Cole "It Happened One Night"



PAGE3:

Manu Katche "Neighboorhood"

Diana Krall "Love Scenes" (My Love Is)

Regina Spektor "Begin To Hope"

Quincy Coleman "Come Closer" (Want Me Back)

Ronan Hardiman "Anthem", "Solas"

Count Basie "88 Basie Street" XRCD version

Joe Satriani "The Electric Joe Satriani: An Anthology" (Rubina)

Igor Stravinski "The Right of Spring"

Benny Goodman - 'Benny Goodman and Friends'

The Benny Green Trio - "Testifyin'" 'Live at the Village Vanguard

Bill Berry - 'For Duke'

Bill Mays Trio - 'Live at the Jazz Standard'

Bob James - 'Dancing on the Water'

Carmen McRae - 'The Great American Songbook'

Clifford Jordan - 'Live at Ethell's'

The Count Basie Orchestra - 'Live at EL Morocco'

Diana Krall - 'The Girl in the Other Room'

Ella Fitzgerald - 'Clap Hands Here Comes Charlie'

Fred Hersch Trio - 'The Fred Hersch Trio Plays'

Hope Waits - 'Hope Waits'

James Carter - 'Chasin' The Gypsy'

Jane Monheit - 'Come Dream With Me'

Joshua Redman Quartet - 'Live at the Village Vanguard'

Kendra Shank - 'Afterglow'

Oscar Peterson - 'Live at the Blue Note'

Ray Brown/Laurindo Almeida - 'Moonlight Serenade'

The Ray Brown Trio - 'Live at Kuumbwa'

Rickie Lee Jones - 'Pop Pop'

Roy Gaines - 'I Got the T-Bone Walker Blues'

Victor Feldman - 'Audiophile'

Wynton Marsalis Septet - 'Live at the Village Vanguard'

Johnny Cash - 'American Recordings'

Linda Ronstadt & Nelson Riddle - 'What's New'

Blue Rodeo "Five Days In July"

Aimee Mann "Magnolia Sundtrack" (One)

Natalie Merchant's "Tigerlily" (Carnival,The Letter)

Holly Cole's "Romantically Helpless" (One Trick Pony)

Gladiator Soundtrack (The Battle)

Hugh Masekela "Burmester Reference III CD" (Stimela)

Rebecca Pidgeon "The Raven" (Spanish Harlem) (24/96 version)

Wilco's "Being There" (Sunken Treasure)

Steely Dan "The Royal Scam" (Kid Charlemagne)

Rusted Root "When I Woke" (Cat Turned Blue, Laugh As The Sun)
 
Peggy Lee "Black Coffee" (Black Coffee)

Ben Harper "Fight For Your Mind" (Gold To Me, God Fearing Man)

Dave Matthews Band Before These Crowded Streets (Crush)

Elanor McEvoy "Yola" (Isn't It A Little Late?)

Roland Kirk "Domino" (Domino,remastered)

Sarah McLachlan "Surfacing" (Angel)

Tommy Emmanuel - "Center Stage"

Ray Brown- "Walk On"

Stravinsky "Firebird Suite" Eiji Oue Minnesota Orch

Chrisette Michele "I Am" (Your Joy)

Mars - Dean Peter...

Brian Wilson Surf's Up!

Bizet - Carmon Fantasie Anne-Sophie-Mutter, Vienner Phil - James Levine


PAGE 4:


Chet Atkins "Sails"

Rene Olstead "Skylark" (Nothing But the Blame"

Jennifer Warnes "Famous Blue Raincoat"

Preston Reed "Instrument Landing"

Eva Cassidy "Time After Time", "Imagine'

Madeleine Peyroux "Careless Love"

Ray Charles "Genius Loves Company"


PAGE 5:

Miles Davis "Kind of Blue"


PAGE 6:

Allison Kraus "Union Station Live"

Josh Groban "Closer"

Chris Issac 'Best of Chris Issac"


PAGE 7:

Keb' Mo' "Suitcase"

Rodger Waters "Amused To Death"

PAGE 8:

John Lee Hooker "Chill Out"

Eric Bibb "A Ship Called Home"

Robert Plant / Allison Krauss "Raising Sand"

Ottmar Liebert "Luna Negra"

Pink Floyd "Dark Sinde of the Moon" Dream Theater mix

Muddy Water 'FOlk Singer"


PAGE 9:

Lyle Lovette "Step Inside This House"

Tears For Fears "The Hurting" Mercury Reissue



PAGE 10

Joe Jackson - any

Peter Wolf "Sleepless"

Ry Cooder "Buena Vista Social Club"

Sonny Rollins "Saxophone Colossus"

Ali Farka Toure & Tuomani Diabatie "In the Heart of the Moon"

Steve Turre "TNT","Sanctified Shells","In the Spur of the Moment"

Chucho Valdes "Live at the Village Vanguard","Bele Bele en La Habana"

Clark Terry "Live-Village Gate"
   
Taj Mahal "Shoutin in Key", "Senor Blues"
 
Little Carlie and the Night Cats "Disturbing the Peace"
 
Jimmie Lee Robinson "All My Life" 

John Mellencamp "Trouble No More"

Jorma Kaukonen "Blue Country Heart"

Dire Straits "Brothers In Arms" XRCD

Donald Fagen "Morph The Cat", "Kamakiriad"

Paul Simon "Graceland"

Don Cherry & Ed Blackwell "El Corazon"

Jacob Fred Jazz Odyssey 'Walking With Giants"

Bliss "Quiet Letters", "Afterlife"

Three Mo'Tenors

Allison Krauss "New Favorite", "So Long So Wrong"
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 13 Nov 2009, 12:37 am
PART2:


PAGE 11:

Neil Young "Live At Massey Hall 1971"

Uncle Tupelo


PAGE 12:

Brian Bromberg "Wood", "WoodII"

Miles Davis "The Complete Jack Johnson Sessions"

Strauss: Don Juan" HDCD Eiji Oue

Joss Stone "Soul Sessions"


PAGE 13:

Ben Harper 'White Lies for Dark Times", "There Will Be A Light", "Live From Mars"

Yello "Baby"


PAGE 14:


SMV "Thunder"

Holly Cole "The Best of Holly Cole"

Dave Brubeck "Time Out'

Getz & Byrd "Jazz Samba"

Horace Silver "Song For My Father"

Oscar Peterson "Tracks'

Duke Ellington "Masterpieces by Ellington"

Joe Henderson "So Near, So Far (Musings for Miles"

Ray Brown "Summer Wind "Live at the Loa"

Phil Roy "The Great Longing", "Grouchyfriendly"

Boz Scaggs "Harbor Lights"

Blossom Dearie  "Blossum Dearie" (They Say Its Spring, Manhattan)

Ray Brown "Some of My Best Friends Are Singers"

Methany/Mehldau "Ring of Life"

Eric Claptons "Back Home"

Alanis Morrisette "Jagged Little Pill"  This is the ACOUSTIC VERSION (Enhanced).

Alie In chains "Unplugged Live'

Rodrigo y Gabriela "Rodrigo y Gabriela"


PAGE 15:


Tangerine Dream "Force Majeure", "Richochet", "Stratosfear", "Attic Thoughts"

The Flock "Dinosaur Swamps"

Kraftwerk "Minimum-Maximum"

Uberzone "Ideology"

Massive Attack "Mezzanine"

Enigma "Love Sensuality Devotion: The Greatest Hits'

Rosa Passos 'Romance"

Royksopp "Melody A.M."

Kruder & Dorfmeister " K&D Session"

Moorcheeba "Big Calm"

The Who "Tommy" Mobile Fidelity Version

Bob James "Ivory Coast", "Double Vision"

Robert Miles & Trilok Gurtu "Miles Gurtu"

Roy Hargrove "Moment to Momnet, "Ear Food"

Seal "Best 1991-2004" 2 CD Set


PAGE 16:


Harry Allen "I Won't Dance" "Meets the John Pizzafelli Trio"

Count Basie "One O'Clock Jump"

David Gray "White Ladder"

Eberhard Weber "Endless Days"

David Sandborn "Upfront"

Cassandra Wilson "New Moon Daughter", "Blue Till Dawn'

Jennifer Warnes " The Hunter'

Rob Wasserman "Trios", "Duets" , "Space Island"

Hugh Masekala "Hope"


PAGE 17:

Eva Cassidy "Songbird" , "Live at Blues Alley"


PAGE 18:

Damien Rice "Live at Fingerprints Warts and All"

Adele "Adele 19"

Diana Krall 'The Very Best of Diana Krall"

Lenard Cohen "Ten New Songs"


PAGE 19:

Hot Club of San Francisco "Yerba Buena Bounce"

Jenna Mammina "Meant To Be', "Inner Smile"

David Finckel & Wu Han "Greig, Schumann & Chopin Music for Piano and Cello"

Yasushi Akutagawa "Ellora Symphony, Trinita Sinfonica & Rhapsody"

Virgil Thompson "The Plow That Broke the Plains and The River"

Dead Can Dance "'Toward the Within"

Charlie Haden & John Taylor "Nightfall"

Charlie HAden & Antonio Forcione "Heartplay"

Sheryl Crowe "The Best of Sheryl Crowe"

Madeline Peyroux "Bare Bones"



PAGE 20:

Larry Fuller Trio "Easy Walker"

Ronny Jordan "A Brighter Day"

McLaughlin, DiMeola, DeLucia "Friday Night Live in San Francisco"


PAGE 21:

Mozart Alfred Brendel, Sir Charles Mackerras "Piano Concertos'

Mike Oldfield "Tubular Bells"


PAGE 22:

Laurie Anderson "Life On A String"

Jethro Tull "Stand Up"


PAGE 23:

Kirk Whalum "For You"

Dave & Don Grusin 'Sticks and Stones", "Migration"

Emiliana Torrini "Me and Armini"

Basia "Best of Basis"


PAGE 24:

Diana Krall "Live In Paris" (Lets Fall In Love)

Getz/Gilberto (SACD) (The Girl From Ipanema)

Misty River "Live at the Backstage Gate"

Johannes Linstead "Guitarra Del Feugo"

Michael Stearns "The Lost World"

Bela Fleck & The Flecktones "UFO","Tofu"

Rebecca Pidgeon "The Raven"

Beethoven Symphony No. 6 ("Pastorale") SACD, Bruno Walter cond. Columbia Symphony Orchestra

Trittico, Reference Recording 52CD, Frederick Fennel cond. Dallas Wind Ensemble

Mephisto & Co., Reference Recording 82CD, Eiji Oue cond. Minnesota Orchestra.

Wynton Marsalis "Standard Time Volume 2"

Brandford Marsalis "I Heard You Twice The First Time"

Akiko Suwanai "Poeme"

Beck "Mutations"

Soul Coughing "Irrestible Bliss"

Paul Simon "Still Crazy After All These Years"

Lyod Cole and the Commotions "Are You Ready To Be Heartbroken"

Shawn Colvin "Steady On"


PAGE 25:

Michael Garson "Serendipity"

Aimee Mann "Live At St. Anns Wharehouse"

Tracy Thorn "Out of the Woods"

Ian Hunter "Artful Dodger'

Richard Elliott "Take It To the Skies"

Vivaldi: La Stravaganza - Podger/Arte Dei Suonatori

Johannes Brahms:Serenades Op.11 & Op.16 Gewandhaus Orchester Leipzig


PAGE 26:

Steve Davis Project

John Horner "Glory Soundtrack"



PAGE 27:

"Baroque Music for Brass and Organ"

John Coltrane "A Love Supreme"





Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 13 Nov 2009, 12:39 am
I hope this list is helpful to the 'new' and older participants and readers of this thread...I found several cd's that I thought I had ordered but just got lost in the mix!!

So its off to Amazon again!!

Jim, Thanks for supporting and allowing this thread to be on the "Salk Circle"!!


All the Best
Alex
 aa

Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: stlrman on 13 Nov 2009, 04:47 pm
Thanks Alex !! This is very helpful indeed ! :thumb:
Todd
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 13 Nov 2009, 05:40 pm
Your Welcome!

Alex
 aa
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: BobM on 13 Nov 2009, 06:01 pm
You want to know something funny? I put these into a spreadsheet and sorted them real quick. There were on 2 duplicate entries out of the 254 listings. Nice job keeping the list unique everyone.

Now if anyone has a site where they can post the spreadsheet and make it available for download I would be happy to send it to you so everyone can have it.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Coytee on 13 Nov 2009, 06:54 pm
Ding ding...  I'd love to see it (getting ready to peruse the thread)

"punk at nxs.net"

yes  "punk" 

 :o  :D
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 13 Nov 2009, 07:00 pm
Wow!

BobM... I am surprised, I went thru them all day yesterday at the hospital, chemo time for my wife...and I found several dups and deleted them..to only have these 2 is really good to me.

254 entries, what a nice stocking stuffer this would make...a real nice demo quality set of cds!!

Some of the lines have one, two or more albums listed, so it may be more than 254?

Please send me a PM and I will send you my email for the sheet.

Thanks
Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 15 Nov 2009, 01:06 am
OK back to the recommendations:

George harrison, Jeff Lynne, Bob Dylan, Tom Petty, and Roy Orbison whats not to like with this eclectic bunch:

The Traveling Wilburys...2 CD / DVD Set.

http://www.amazon.com/Traveling-Wilburys-CD-DVD/dp/B000P0J024/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1258246841&sr=8-1

The first CD is really awesome on the SongTowers...what bass from these gems, sub-woofers need not apply here!!  aa

The neat thing is you can watch the DVD and then listen to the HDCD cuts on the other 2 cds which are done relly nice..

Play it LOUD and smile alot!!

Highly Recommended!!
Alex :rock:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: oneinthepipe on 15 Nov 2009, 05:00 am
I opened a Salk owners google group.

http://groups.google.com/group/salk-owners

If BobM sends me an email address, I will send him an invite, and he can upload the file, or if he emails me the file, I will upload the file to the group.  I set the group up as public, and anyone will be able to download the file.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: TJHUB on 17 Nov 2009, 01:58 am
Very nice Alex!  What a HUGE help!  :thumb:

I scanned through the list and while many of my favorite stuff has already been mentioned, I just started listening to Keiko Matsui.  She is a piano player that mixes contemporary jazz, electronica, and new age with a Japanese flavor that is both unique and interesting.  The music is VERY dynamic with mainly fantastic piano (which I'm a sucker for), sax, and drums and a bass line that digs deep.  The sound quality is exceptional.  Thus far I've only heard two of her albums: "Walls Of Akendora" and "Sapphire".  Both are very good.  This is not normally my kind of music, but I really like her stuff a lot.  It's mostly instrumental with a few track that have vocals.

One of my favorite tracks is "Crystal Shadow" on "Walls Of Akendora"; very cool. 

   
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: BobM on 17 Nov 2009, 02:12 pm
file sent - look for it on the favorite posting site in the near future
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: S Clark on 17 Nov 2009, 02:26 pm
I was changing interconnects around on my Buffalo Dac last night and pulled out Indigo Girls "Rite of Passage" to listen to.  Perhaps its the new dac, but there are detail there that I hadn't heard before, making me realize that this was a better reference cd than I had realized-- and most of the cuts are very good music.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: intamin22 on 17 Nov 2009, 02:38 pm
Iron And Wine - The Shepherd's Dog "Flightless Bird, American Mouth"

Just picked up the cd yesterday for that song, and the entire cd is very good and is a good quality recording as well.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: oneinthepipe on 17 Nov 2009, 03:29 pm
I opened a Salk owners google group.

http://groups.google.com/group/salk-owners

If BobM sends me an email address, I will send him an invite, and he can upload the file, or if he emails me the file, I will upload the file to the group.  I set the group up as public, and anyone will be able to download the file.

file sent - look for it on the favorite posting site in the near future

The file has been uploaded and should be available for anyone to download.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: ctouhey on 17 Nov 2009, 05:50 pm

The file has been uploaded and should be available for anyone to download.

Got it.  Thanks!

Also, there are 3 tracks from a tribute album, "Two Rooms: Celebrating the Songs of Elton John & Bernie Taupin", that I like to use to demo speakers.

Track #3:  "Come Down In Time" - Sting - For the bass guitar and his vocals
Track #7: "Sorry Seems To Be The Hardest Word" - Joe Cocker - For vocals and Sax
Track #14: "Sacrifice" - Sinead O'Connor - For incredible dymanic range

Since there are various artists recorded at various times, there is great track-to-track variability in quality.

Chris
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 18 Nov 2009, 12:17 am
So Cool!!

Many thanks for posting the file!!

I will start now keeping the list and add to the posts in a section 3 listing when we get 100 or so new recommendations!

I like Keiko Matsui, but do not have any of her cd's I will look into your recommendations for sure!

I hate to say I have heard of Indigo Girls but dont am not familiar with any of their stuff..but again I will check this out for sure...this is what is neat about this thread.
Discovering new stuff that is great!

All the Best
Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 21 Nov 2009, 08:35 pm
Has anyone listened to Peter Gabriels "Up" album?

I saw several comments and have ordered it.

All the best
Alex
 aa
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: TJC712 on 22 Nov 2009, 01:12 am
Has anyone listened to Peter Gabriels "Up" album?

I saw several comments and have ordered it.

All the best
Alex
 aa

Big fan of Peter Gabriel, but this (as all of his cd's) is certainly an acquired taste requiring multiple listens before appreciating. He's a musically eccentric fellow who seems to be infatuated with experimenting with rare percussion/pipe/wind/keybd instruments. Most of his work has varied assortments of real interesting rythms/lyrics... as I said before, I enjoy listening... usually well recorded. This particular album features a cut ("I Grieve") that I played often when my dad passed away a few yrs ago... maybe I'm biased.  Happy listening! 
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: elee532 on 26 Nov 2009, 07:15 pm
Love it! My favorite since Security. If you have SACD capability, definitely try to pick up the SACD for the surround mix.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: TJC712 on 28 Nov 2009, 02:53 am
The day(s) off have provided me a little time to listen to some tunes while working around the house, so some recommendations from today: Poncho Sanchez - Psychedelic Blues... tasty upbeat latin jazz/percussion, Norah Jones new release The Fall... another solid work from her albeit displaying a little edge this time, and-for us older folk-Oscar Peterson Trio with the Nelson Riddle Orchestra... some great standards by a first class trio backed by a great orchestra with some fine strings on the Verve Music label. Three completely different feel Cd's, all worthy of a listen. Happy Holiday to Alex & all!
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: MaxCast on 28 Nov 2009, 02:59 am
Has anyone listened to Peter Gabriels "Up" album?

I saw several comments and have ordered it.

All the best
Alex
 aa

I get some awesome surround effects going on with that song (stereo version).  It is pretty amazing, I love cranking that one.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: TJC712 on 28 Nov 2009, 06:44 am
Ya know, something else I was listening to tonight with some very nice tracks on it is These Streets by Paolo Nutini. He's got a real good sound. Don't believe that I've seen anybody mention this here before. If I missed someone else mentioning already, my apology. It's a pleasant, easy listen.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 30 Nov 2009, 12:16 am
Hello All!

Been really busy and have not had time to listen this week, too many yard progects to complete before cold weather comes here in North Carolina.

I got my copy of Peter Gabriels "UP" and what a surprise.

I was not expecting much, but I just spent 1' 06" + listening to the cd all the way thru...

What adjectives to use in describing this one! 

Dynamic, Three Dimensional, Ecclectic, All-Encompassing, Sonic Playground, Melodic, Ever Changing...etc..

I thought I had my sub-woofer turned on, it was not!! What a kick drum,,,,no sub needed here with this CD and the SongTowers..

The piano harmonics and overtones on track 10 are to die for!!! (That means its really GOOD)!  :D

You may not like Peter Gabriels style or 'voice' I was never a real fan, but this CD is Demo Quality for sure and I am now a Peter Gabriel fan..

This guy is brilliant on this CD, yes there are parts where I thought where is this going, but if you stick thru the entire 'long' tracks they will amaze you as to the content and what your SongTowers will do with this material.

Its really a great CD and made me sit still for over an hour at LOUD volume levels!!

Cudo's to Peter Gabriel for "UP"

Wonder if any of his other work is as good as this recording?

All the best and hope everyone had a great Thankgsgiving!!

Alex

 aa
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: elee532 on 30 Nov 2009, 01:31 am
Ya know, I just realized that this disc has been in my car since purchasing my SongTower's, so I have yet to listen to it using the them. I will be bringing this inside and giving it a spin next chance I get. :-)
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: TJC712 on 2 Dec 2009, 01:43 pm
I've been listening to "The Best of Basia" the past couple days.
Sounds like a good candidate for this thread to me, however I've been sick this week and not ready to trust my ears to use as a tool to spend someone else's money just yet.  :lol:

Can anyone confirm?

Bob

I was just listening to her Time & Tide CD this morning as I was putzing around before leaving... sounded great. Even with some of the late 80's electronica present, what great arrangements and tremendous vocals. Peter White also does some nice guitar work on here. Certainly worthy of a listen. After a few months of tooling around on here, I think that I have a decent grasp of what Alex might consider a good listen (musically and audiophonic-ly). Alex... buy this one... think it will make your list! Another good call, Bob.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: TJC712 on 3 Dec 2009, 04:29 am
For those old 60's/70's rockers, I found myself lost tonight listening to Walking In the Wind on Traffic's "When the Eagle Flies" CD. Great tune featuring some wonderful organ sound. Good stuff.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: TJC712 on 3 Dec 2009, 04:52 am
Don't recall if anyone here mentioned Jamie Cullum, but found him to be a well recorded, talented guy that I found very pleasant to listen to. Hard to describe... mixed bag of sound stemming from a root in jazz. Reminiscent of a young Harry Connick Jr. with more of a pop sound? Does some modern versions of older standards with his own unique twists. Whatever... I liked it. I listened to his 'twentysomething" CD. Interested in hearing more of his stuff (if there even is any?).
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 3 Dec 2009, 03:39 pm
Cudo's to Peter Gabriel for "UP"
Ordered.  aa Thanks for the recommendation.

TJC, Yea we've spoke of Jamie Cullum (way way back). I've given "Thirtysomething" my recommendation. Good stuff. Yes, he does remind me of a young Harry Connick Jr.
As far as Basia is concerned, I've got the "best of" CD and like it very much. I've not heard the Time and Tide disc. Although,  the song "Time and Tide" is on the "best of" disc and happens to be one of my favorites of theirs. "Waters of March" is also a great tune.

Bob
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: TJC712 on 4 Dec 2009, 12:31 am
All of her stuff is very good. Regarding your reference to Waters of March, one of the tracks on Time and Tide is a tribute to Astrud Gilberto (called Astrud). Another good listen is Marc Cohn's first CD by the same name. Very simple but very good; quality recording.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: TJC712 on 4 Dec 2009, 02:34 pm
As far as male vocal (and piano) as concerned, Jamie Cullum is very good. Reminds me of a young Harry Connick Jr.
As far as sound quality is concerned, the album "Twentysomething" is very good from what I recall. But it's been awhile since I've listened to it.
I'm sure you've heard the song, "These are the days". Great stuff.

Bob

Hey Bob. Had a little time this morning and was going thru some of the older posts in this thread (things I meant to buy and forgot about!). I came across this older post from a certain mid-western guy. Damn... busted again!  Must've planted a seed in the sub conscientious mind.  Anyway... seems we have similar tastes, although I like pretty much any good music. FYI - The sound quality sounds fine on what I listened to. Keep on keepin' on....      Tim
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 4 Dec 2009, 03:11 pm
How about:

Gene Ammons "Boss Tenor"

Very nice Jazz. Sax, piano, percussion instrumentals. No vocals.
Damn fine tunes indeed.

Bob
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: oldmp3 on 4 Dec 2009, 04:16 pm
I believe many (most?) of the outstanding CDs listed in this thread offer a relatively large volume dynamic range and do not suffer from the modern afflictions of clipping and compressed dynamics imposed post production to make a "hot" sound. 

Of course many, many other factors go into producing a great sounding CD.  However, this practice alone drives some of us to simply avoid otherwise good stuff :cuss:

There is some great information at http://turnmeup.org (http://turnmeup.org).

Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 4 Dec 2009, 04:46 pm
I registered with that site many months ago. To this date, I've not received an email, notice, contact or communication from them. I thought I was "joining" something when I signed up?  :dunno:

Bob
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: rodge827 on 5 Dec 2009, 02:32 am
Alex,
 ALL Peter Gabriel is good stuff  :drool:.
 A good disc to get you started would be Shaking The Tree. A pretty good compialation of some earlier stuff. Also any one of his live albums is a must. He was the frontman and major influance for mostly all the early Genesis recordings. After recording The Lamb Lies Down On Broadway in 1975 he struck out on his own and has never looked back. He was and is still one of a few continually progressive and innovative artists today.
Chris
Hello All!

Been really busy and have not had time to listen this week, too many yard progects to complete before cold weather comes here in North Carolina.

I got my copy of Peter Gabriels "UP" and what a surprise.

I was not expecting much, but I just spent 1' 06" + listening to the cd all the way thru...

What adjectives to use in describing this one! 

Dynamic, Three Dimensional, Ecclectic, All-Encompassing, Sonic Playground, Melodic, Ever Changing...etc..

I thought I had my sub-woofer turned on, it was not!! What a kick drum,,,,no sub needed here with this CD and the SongTowers..

The piano harmonics and overtones on track 10 are to die for!!! (That means its really GOOD)!  :D

You may not like Peter Gabriels style or 'voice' I was never a real fan, but this CD is Demo Quality for sure and I am now a Peter Gabriel fan..

This guy is brilliant on this CD, yes there are parts where I thought where is this going, but if you stick thru the entire 'long' tracks they will amaze you as to the content and what your SongTowers will do with this material.

Its really a great CD and made me sit still for over an hour at LOUD volume levels!!

Cudo's to Peter Gabriel for "UP"

Wonder if any of his other work is as good as this recording?

All the best and hope everyone had a great Thankgsgiving!!

Alex

 aa
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: TJC712 on 6 Dec 2009, 01:26 am
OK, perhaps a little time stamped, but great nonetheless. Just listened to 3 tracks (Masquerade, Affirmation, Lady) from Benson's Breezin'; wonderful. His guitar work and the keybd play by Jorge Dalto are beautiful. I know... very 70's... but sounds great.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: TJC712 on 6 Dec 2009, 01:39 am
Shifting gears here a bit... Empty Glass by Peter Townshend is another quality listen. His vocals and the drum/cymbals sound particularly good throughout. Pulled these last two out of the mothballs.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: TJC712 on 7 Dec 2009, 01:20 am
Alex,
 ALL Peter Gabriel is good stuff  :drool:.
 A good disc to get you started would be Shaking The Tree. A pretty good compialation of some earlier stuff. Also any one of his live albums is a must. He was the frontman and major influance for mostly all the early Genesis recordings. After recording The Lamb Lies Down On Broadway in 1975 he struck out on his own and has never looked back. He was and is still one of a few continually progressive and innovative artists today.
Chris
Hello All!

Been really busy and have not had time to listen this week, too many yard progects to complete before cold weather comes here in North Carolina.

I got my copy of Peter Gabriels "UP" and what a surprise.

I was not expecting much, but I just spent 1' 06" + listening to the cd all the way thru...

What adjectives to use in describing this one! 

Dynamic, Three Dimensional, Ecclectic, All-Encompassing, Sonic Playground, Melodic, Ever Changing...etc..

I thought I had my sub-woofer turned on, it was not!! What a kick drum,,,,no sub needed here with this CD and the SongTowers..

The piano harmonics and overtones on track 10 are to die for!!! (That means its really GOOD)!  :D

You may not like Peter Gabriels style or 'voice' I was never a real fan, but this CD is Demo Quality for sure and I am now a Peter Gabriel fan..

This guy is brilliant on this CD, yes there are parts where I thought where is this going, but if you stick thru the entire 'long' tracks they will amaze you as to the content and what your SongTowers will do with this material.

Its really a great CD and made me sit still for over an hour at LOUD volume levels!!

Cudo's to Peter Gabriel for "UP"

Wonder if any of his other work is as good as this recording?

All the best and hope everyone had a great Thankgsgiving!!

Alex

 aa

Mercy Street a favorite on my ST's
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 7 Dec 2009, 07:14 pm
Hey Everyone!!

Thanks for the new recommendations!

I will try Shake the Tree and some Jamie Cullum selections.

Oldmp3: Yes we look for recording that have wide dynamic range....clarity, the way the artists are recorded and mixed...fantastic imaging, etc...

A lot of the recommendations exhibit these qualities for sure...

One of the things we also think of is the method of presentation.....methodical, deliberate  presentations by the best in their fields.

This can be over a wide varied selection of music types...jazz, rock, pop, female, male and all the rest.

Just when I think there are no more really great cds to listen to you guys and gals come up with new ones!!

Hope all had a great Thanksgiving!!

All the best

Alex
 aa

Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 8 Dec 2009, 08:54 pm
Peter Gabriel "Up" arrived today.
What's been said is very true, the recording is very high quality, and would make for a good demo disc. The bass is THERE. Very nice, ultra tactile. Super cool. Good "food" for a system that likes lower frequencies.
However, this is some truly weird music. I won't be listening to this while driving, and I won't be demoing it to people who aren't "audio" folks. If you play this for an unsuspecting, innocent person who has never been in your room, nor has been "subjected" to audiophile grade music, then you're going to earn yourself some unflattering looks form your guests.

I can hear it now....."What the Hell is THAT"?  :o :scratch:

Overall, worth the $9 I paid for it. No regrets.
Bob
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: TJC712 on 9 Dec 2009, 12:37 am
Just listened to Dave Brubeck's All The Things We Are CD... Great sound.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: TJC712 on 9 Dec 2009, 01:18 am
If you appreciate the Coltrane/Hartman collaboration, you'll really enjoy Kurt Elling's live recording from Lincoln Center: Dedicated to You. Some great tunes, arrangements, vocals, strings, solos... buy it. You'll think you are there.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 9 Dec 2009, 01:37 am
Hey Bob!

Yes I did use the word "ecclectic" in my description and I have to say it can be a little wierd and off the main stream but its kind of neat...and yes its an audiophile cd for sure.

Its nothing like any of the jazz masters stuff etc..

I was really amazed at how well the SongTowers played the bass notes with this cd...I checked several times to make sure the sub-woofer was indeed OFF!!

Now what the "hell" is that ????

All the best
Alex

 aa
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: hikinokie on 9 Dec 2009, 12:53 pm
Acoustic Alchemy:
Natural Elements
American/English

Strunz & Farah:
Americas
Frontera

Quick buzz thru the entire thread & didn't see any mention of these. If you like acoustic guitar played well check them out.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: jimdgoulding on 9 Dec 2009, 01:08 pm
Natural female vocal CD without any EQ (cept for deepest bass) that I can detect, Sylvia McNair- Sure Thing (Philips).  Previn's piano is very good, also.  Produced by Phil Ramone but without enhancement ala Shelby Lynne's tribute to Dusty Springfield.  Much more natural.  If your speakers and listening seat are correctly placed for your room and your toe-in is spot on, this is hard to beat.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 9 Dec 2009, 01:15 pm
Thanks hikinokie for the Acoustic Alchemy recommendations, I actually have been front row center at one of their first concerts in the USA. It was marvelous.

I have many of their CD's I will give them a listen and see if the overall quality is up to 'demo' standards!!  :D

Jim, thanks for the new female voice recommendation of Sylvia McNair, I have never heard of her..another great reson for this thread to discover new material that is awesome.

All the best
Alex
 aa
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: hikinokie on 9 Dec 2009, 05:35 pm
I had been playing my cd's thru my Oppo dvd player & then I bought Emotiva's new cd player & analog preamp. Very nice increase in performance but a lot of my cd's didn't sound any better than when I was using the dvd player. The Strunz & Farah and Acoustic Alchemy cd's were a different story. They must have used a good studio or something because they sound absolutely outstanding.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: TJC712 on 9 Dec 2009, 09:53 pm
Acoustic Alchemy:
Natural Elements
American/English

Strunz & Farah:
Americas
Frontera

Quick buzz thru the entire thread & didn't see any mention of these. If you like acoustic guitar played well check them out.

Thanks for the reccos. Somebody had mentioned Strunz & Farah to me a while back and I completely forgot about it. They were highly recommended back then also... thanks for the reminder!  I will certainly pick up some of their stuff to listen to.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: TJC712 on 11 Dec 2009, 06:03 am
K Shep!!

David Gray, White Ladder....in one word "WONDERFUL" absolutley a demo pick. Cant thank you enough for this one...now is there anymore of his music out there at this level...

Alex
 aa

I'm glad you're enjoying the CD.  White Ladder is the only album I have of his.  Perhaps others my chime in. 

Alex,

Did you ever check out the Seal CD I recommended?  I looked on Amazon and they want $69 used for the darn thing.  I went back and reviewed my order and I paid $34 for it.  The CD contains 3 discs one original recordings, the second acoustic versions of the originals and third a DVD with surround audio I think, I haven't played the DVD at all.  If you can see yourself paying $69 for Seal I would give it a ride...it is one of the best recordings I have.  Let me know.

Kirk

OK, so I'm a little slow on the draw, but...   I just realized that I had this Seal set here and popped in for a listen. (Was opened, so I must've listened to it at least once... I guess!?!) Anyway, good call, nice sound!  I particularly liked the acoustic cuts... very pleasant on the ears.  Will certainly listen some more. Don't believe that I've ever listened to the DVD either. Will do shortly! Thanks!  TC
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: lonewolfny42 on 11 Dec 2009, 06:37 am
Alex...

Here's one to try....a very good recording (on Chesky)...relaxing...talented composer....great guitarist....Brazilian music.....what's not to like... :wink:

(http://www.weblo.com/music/images/albums/thumbnail/Non-Stop_to_Brazil_4905d4fc6d1a3.jpg)

Luiz Bonfa - "Non-Stop to Brazil" ....samples... (http://www.amazon.com/Non-Stop-Brazil-Luiz-Bonf%C3%A1/dp/B000003GEY/ref=pd_sim_m_3)
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 12 Dec 2009, 02:37 am
Hey Chis,

Thanks for the recommendation  I will look into it for sure!

I am without a cd player at the moment, I sent my OPPO BD83 back to become a
BD 83SE!  So I guess I got a new "DAC" !!!  aa

All the best and hope you have a great Christmas and Holiday!!

Alex

Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: K Shep on 12 Dec 2009, 08:33 pm
I just realized that I had this Seal set here (http://www.amazon.com/Best-1991-2004-CD-DVD-Audio/dp/B00063F8BW/ref=sr_1_17?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1260649802&sr=1-17) and popped in for a listen. (Was opened, so I must've listened to it at least once... I guess!?!) Anyway, good call, nice sound!  I particularly liked the acoustic cuts... very pleasant on the ears.

TC,

I too enjoy the acoustic tracks..."Crazy (acoustic)" has become one of my reference songs that I audition gear with.

Kirk
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: mort on 14 Dec 2009, 05:30 am
For dynamic range any album by Yellow cant be beat. If you cant stand the music you still will impress people and yourself with a good system.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Russell Dawkins on 14 Dec 2009, 06:56 am
And they're still at it - they had a fresh coming out on Oct 1st to promote their new album "Touch".
trailer: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uPm0pE5b6Us&feature=related
promo: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aJ275s9R5s4

and singer Dieter Meier's restaurant (!):
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D0l53h46d0U&feature=related

Boris does seem to have a gift for creating bass sounds that flatter most speakers.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: lonewolfny42 on 14 Dec 2009, 07:09 am
Their tune "Oh Yeah" from Yello's album "One Second" has been a good track for checking out your bass response and dynamics..... :wink:

http://www.amazon.com/One-Second-Yello/dp/B000001FMS/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1260774041&sr=1-5
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Russell Dawkins on 14 Dec 2009, 07:19 am
...and a very catchy track! I found myself saying "ooooohhh, yeeaah!"  at various times throughout the day to my wife's annoyance but my son's delight for days after hearing this.

More than a month has gone by and we still find uses for it.

Be warned!

I think it's pretty funny, but my wife doesn't see any humor in it at all. She hates it, actually!

Judging by the comments under the youtube clip, it polarizes everybody.

Here is the clip - that's Dieter's daughter in the opening scene:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gqU_0xpILIU&NR=1

Apparently, Dieter and Boris are both techno recording nuts who ran into each other in the late 70's, mics in their hands, at a car wreckers. They had come to record the sound of the car crusher! Nowadays, Boris has a massive and well cataloged sound samples library.

I edited this to include a good stereo clip of the tune, at the same time Chris posted his link - sorry Chris.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: lonewolfny42 on 14 Dec 2009, 07:23 am
...and a very catchy track! I found myself saying "ooooohhh, yeeaah!"  at various times throughout the day to my wife's annoyance but my son's delight for days after hearing this.

More than a month has gone by and we still find uses for it.

Be warned!

I think it's pretty funny, but my wife doesn't see any humor in it at all. She hates it, actually!

Judging by the comments under the youtube clip, it polarizes everybody.

.............. :lol:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Q7FFjUpVLg
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: mort on 14 Dec 2009, 10:26 pm
The Yello song that coutinualy blows my mind is The Race it is the fifth song on their album Flag. The race car imaging is awesome and with a good system at times the back ground clapping can appear to be coming from your side if not slightly behind you.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: mort on 14 Dec 2009, 10:42 pm
Oh Yeah was featured in Ferris Buellers day off. The song makes its debut when Ferris uncovers Camerans fathers Ferrari he is about to steal. Another good artist for refrencing (particularily male vocals) is Cold Play I dont know what type of mic they used on Chriss Martins vocals but they sound heavenly on all of their albums. Happy listening. Mort
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Russell Dawkins on 14 Dec 2009, 10:51 pm
The Yello song that coutinualy blows my mind is The Race it is the fifth song on their album Flag. The race car imaging is awesome and with a good system at times the back ground clapping can appear to be coming from your side if not slightly behind you.
this is probably that sound:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LqoQHCNIKTg&feature=related
but the video is here, with inferior sound:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TjoQiqY9MN4
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: charmerci on 15 Dec 2009, 10:21 am
The Yello song maybe a good "demo" music but it is never anything I would use. (I personally think it is a pretty fun song.) Because it's just all electronic music that simply shows how high your highs and how low your lows can go on a speaker system. You might as well have a PA system to show off that kind of music to impress people.

To me, I emphasize the "outstanding" not the "demo." The recordings that I am looking for should recreate an outstanding performance with the musicians "in my room."
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 16 Dec 2009, 04:27 am
Hello,

I have listened to several samples of Yello, not my cup of tea, but funny, neat, strange, cool?  Who am I to say if this really a demo cd it may well be for some. But I would perfer many others.

We really are looking for those cds that have outstanding sound quality, frequency range, sound staging  and detail.  The music and the performance should be compelling as well. The mastering and all the above should be considered.

When you get done listening you should be saying "WOW" that was really outstanding.

I guess some would say Yello fits that description...cool!! Enjoy!

This is what this thread is all about. Keep the recommendations coming!!

I have several new cds to review, but need my cd player to come back from Oppo!!

Hope to start contributing again next week!!

All the best
Alex
 aa
   
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: TJC712 on 18 Dec 2009, 03:40 am
I just realized that I had this Seal set here (http://www.amazon.com/Best-1991-2004-CD-DVD-Audio/dp/B00063F8BW/ref=sr_1_17?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1260649802&sr=1-17) and popped in for a listen. (Was opened, so I must've listened to it at least once... I guess!?!) Anyway, good call, nice sound!  I particularly liked the acoustic cuts... very pleasant on the ears.

TC,

I too enjoy the acoustic tracks..."Crazy (acoustic)" has become one of my reference songs that I audition gear with.

Kirk

DVD doesn't disappoint... sounds great!
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: K Shep on 18 Dec 2009, 06:21 pm
DVD doesn't disappoint... sounds great!

Are you listening in surround?
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: jimdgoulding on 18 Dec 2009, 07:26 pm
Up, up, up, up, up, up by Ani DiFranco on her label Righteous Babe.  I get the feeling she is very hands on with the production and plays with very sympathetic accompaniment here.  It's pretty naked song and sound and a personal favorite for both.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: TJC712 on 18 Dec 2009, 11:08 pm
DVD doesn't disappoint... sounds great!

Are you listening in surround?

Yeah... really sounds good.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: capwkidd on 20 Dec 2009, 12:55 am
Where?

Such a Deal!

$3.99 for a SACD , DSD hybrid, on order, thanks much for the recommendation!!

All the best
Alex
 aa
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: fishinbob on 20 Dec 2009, 01:33 am
Where?

Such a Deal!

$3.99 for a SACD , DSD hybrid, on order, thanks much for the recommendation!!

All the best
Alex
 aa
http://www.amazon.com/Baroque-Music-Brass-Tomaso-Albinoni/dp/B00009YWAQ/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1261272312&sr=1-2-spell (http://www.amazon.com/Baroque-Music-Brass-Tomaso-Albinoni/dp/B00009YWAQ/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1261272312&sr=1-2-spell)
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: JackD201 on 20 Dec 2009, 01:42 am
Since Christmas is around the corner.....James Taylor's Christmas album is very nice. Good music and good sonics. The duet with Natalie Cole (Baby It's Cold Outside) will warm the hearts of couples that walk in from the cold.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Art_Chicago on 20 Dec 2009, 03:14 am
Jazz at its best:
http://www.amazon.com/London-Flat-Sharp-Dave-Brubeck/dp/B0009GX2AK

Telarc studio, DSD recording  :thumb:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 20 Dec 2009, 02:34 pm
Thanks Art!

This is a gem for sure!!

Brubeck at 85 and still going strong!

Waiting for the Oppo to come home to play!!

All the best!

Alex!

 aa
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 20 Dec 2009, 02:42 pm
Thanks Art!

This is a gem for sure!!

Brubeck at 85 and still going strong! (He is 89, born in 1920).

Look At: http://www.amazon.com/All-Time-Dave-Brubeck/dp/samples/B0001FGB9I/ref=dp_tracks_all_1#disc_1

All the remastered ones, excellent recordings.

Waiting for the Oppo to come home to play!!

All the best!

Alex!

 aa
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: TJC712 on 21 Dec 2009, 11:46 pm
Alex...

Here's one to try....a very good recording (on Chesky)...relaxing...talented composer....great guitarist....Brazilian music.....what's not to like... :wink:

(http://www.weblo.com/music/images/albums/thumbnail/Non-Stop_to_Brazil_4905d4fc6d1a3.jpg)

Luiz Bonfa - "Non-Stop to Brazil" ....samples... (http://www.amazon.com/Non-Stop-Brazil-Luiz-Bonf%C3%A1/dp/B000003GEY/ref=pd_sim_m_3)

Beautiful! Thank you!
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: TJC712 on 22 Dec 2009, 12:09 am
Up, up, up, up, up, up by Ani DiFranco on her label Righteous Babe.  I get the feeling she is very hands on with the production and plays with very sympathetic accompaniment here.  It's pretty naked song and sound and a personal favorite for both.

Now there's a refreshing artist who's gone out on a limb from time to time. While I admit that I'm not familiar with that specific track, I've always found her music to be well recorded for the most part. Another "acquired taste" to say the least with a style all her own. While being impartial regarding her political/social commentaries, I do enjoy listening to her varied works. She always has fascinating, honest, crude lyrics and plays the guitar quite well. Ordered the aforementioned cd and look forward to listening. If nothing else, Ami is always interesting!
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: lonewolfny42 on 22 Dec 2009, 06:57 am
Alex...

Here's one to try....a very good recording (on Chesky)...relaxing...talented composer....great guitarist....Brazilian music.....what's not to like... :wink:

(http://www.weblo.com/music/images/albums/thumbnail/Non-Stop_to_Brazil_4905d4fc6d1a3.jpg)

Luiz Bonfa - "Non-Stop to Brazil" ....samples... (http://www.amazon.com/Non-Stop-Brazil-Luiz-Bonf%C3%A1/dp/B000003GEY/ref=pd_sim_m_3)

Beautiful! Thank you!

Your welcome....how about another. :wink:

One that is an older recording, done in 1962....but a true classic....and well recorded.

Stan Getz and Charlie Byrd..... "Jazz Samba"

(http://images.amazon.com/images/P/B0000047CW.jpg)

Samples.... (http://www.allmusic.com/cg/amg.dll?p=amg&sql=10:azfwxq8gldje)
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: TJC712 on 22 Dec 2009, 04:31 pm
Alex...

Here's one to try....a very good recording (on Chesky)...relaxing...talented composer....great guitarist....Brazilian music.....what's not to like... :wink:

(http://www.weblo.com/music/images/albums/thumbnail/Non-Stop_to_Brazil_4905d4fc6d1a3.jpg)

Luiz Bonfa - "Non-Stop to Brazil" ....samples... (http://www.amazon.com/Non-Stop-Brazil-Luiz-Bonf%C3%A1/dp/B000003GEY/ref=pd_sim_m_3)

Beautiful! Thank you!

Your welcome....how about another. :wink:

One that is an older recording, done in 1962....but a true classic....and well recorded.

Stan Getz and Charlie Byrd..... "Jazz Samba"

(http://images.amazon.com/images/P/B0000047CW.jpg)

Samples.... (http://www.allmusic.com/cg/amg.dll?p=amg&sql=10:azfwxq8gldje)

Good Call!  Another suggestion in this same vein is Eu Nao Quero Dancar (I Won't Dance) by Harry Allen...  some fine sounding work that I suspect you'll enjoy.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: TJC712 on 22 Dec 2009, 05:13 pm
Jazz at its best:
http://www.amazon.com/London-Flat-Sharp-Dave-Brubeck/dp/B0009GX2AK

Telarc studio, DSD recording  :thumb:

Also highly recomend Brubeck's '59 classic recording - Time Out. There's a 50 yr anniversary edition that has 2 cd's and a dvd. 2nd cd is live Brubeck stuff from Newport over a 3 year period. Can find "used" pretty inexpensively... Great buy! 

These are a few other well recorded oldies that I pulled out lately and think may hit your (Alex) sweet spot: Jeff Lorber/Flipside, Joe Sample/Old Places Old Faces, Fourplay/Between the Sheets.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: TJC712 on 22 Dec 2009, 05:31 pm
Wanted to take a second and wish everybody a happy holiday season! Thank you all for the fine music selections contributed here. I've always thought that I had a pretty varied, ecclectic collection of things to listen to, but you folks continually turn me on to some new enjoyable sounds making my collection that much better.   Great job, Alex. 

Also, it's been a year that I've had my Salks now and I want to extend a sincere "Thank You" to Jim Salk... for everything. Let's just say that they brighten up even my "gloomiest" days. Job well done!!
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: TJC712 on 23 Dec 2009, 10:44 pm
Sorry, I feel that I've been piling up posts lately but we close down for a few days around the holidays so I've been listening to a lot of music. Anyway, a virtual lock for "must have" quality CD's is Dave Grusin's Discovered Again, a Sheffield Lab recording. Great cast; great session. Just listen... speaks for itself.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 24 Dec 2009, 02:29 pm
TJC712,

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to All!!

I just got the Oppo back and can play again!!

The Dave Grusin cds are all pretty good and demo cds for sure.
I dont have one I really do not like.....Mountain Dance, Discovered Again etc...

The GRP label has many cds with great artists that depending on your tastes will really show off your system and artists talents..

These are demo cd's!!

Later
All the best!

Alex

 aa
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: TJC712 on 24 Dec 2009, 06:31 pm
Another disk showcasing that fine "Sheffield Lab" technology sound is Pat Coil's Steps featuring another strong cast of musicians playing a variety of easy listening "smooth jazz". It features a good deal of Paulihno Da Costa percussion accompanyment to a strong rythm section.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Art_Chicago on 26 Dec 2009, 08:52 pm
Jazz at its best:
http://www.amazon.com/London-Flat-Sharp-Dave-Brubeck/dp/B0009GX2AK

Telarc studio, DSD recording  :thumb:

Also highly recomend Brubeck's '59 classic recording - Time Out. There's a 50 yr anniversary edition that has 2 cd's and a dvd. 2nd cd is live Brubeck stuff from Newport over a 3 year period. Can find "used" pretty inexpensively... Great buy! 

These are a few other well recorded oldies that I pulled out lately and think may hit your (Alex) sweet spot: Jeff Lorber/Flipside, Joe Sample/Old Places Old Faces, Fourplay/Between the Sheets.

Time Out is a classic, and the remastered version that i got sounds very well, the sax in particular.

Listening to Dave Matthews Band's Big Whiskey and The GrooGrux King now. I do not remember if it was recommended yet, but it is a great CD! There is no a weak cut out of 13. Very well recorded, IMO.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: mathgeek97 on 27 Dec 2009, 02:05 pm
Another digging-through-old-CDs-rediscovery moment:
Elton John - Tumbleweed Connection.  I've been listening to this one a lot lately.  It's very well recorded, but I never noticed how well until I had the Salks.  I'd vote for the track, My Father's Gun, as being a good demo.  Good dynamics and separation of instruments, and at the risk of sounding like a broken record about Jim's speakers, very clear, detailed vocals.

Happy Listening,
Mathgeek97
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: zybar on 27 Dec 2009, 02:51 pm

Listening to Dave Matthews Band's Big Whiskey and The GrooGrux King now. I do not remember if it was recommended yet, but it is a great CD! There is no a weak cut out of 13. Very well recorded, IMO.


Definitely their best and most complete effort since "Before These Crowded Streets".

George
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: TJC712 on 28 Dec 2009, 05:24 am
For those of you who enjoy Latin jazz, listen to Psychadelic Blues by Poncho Sanchez. Some great latin grooves throughout the whole CD.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: jimdgoulding on 28 Dec 2009, 05:35 am
Up, up, up, up, up, up by Ani DiFranco on her label Righteous Babe.  I get the feeling she is very hands on with the production and plays with very sympathetic accompaniment here.  It's pretty naked song and sound and a personal favorite for both.

Now there's a refreshing artist who's gone out on a limb from time to time. While I admit that I'm not familiar with that specific track, I've always found her music to be well recorded for the most part. Another "acquired taste" to say the least with a style all her own. While being impartial regarding her political/social commentaries, I do enjoy listening to her varied works. She always has fascinating, honest, crude lyrics and plays the guitar quite well. Ordered the aforementioned cd and look forward to listening. If nothing else, Ami is always interesting!
That's the album title, my man.  Don't imagine every track will be involving (who is) but most are for me and I hope for you.  I will be checkin out Pancho Sanchez PDQ.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: TJC712 on 28 Dec 2009, 05:52 am
Up, up, up, up, up, up by Ani DiFranco on her label Righteous Babe.  I get the feeling she is very hands on with the production and plays with very sympathetic accompaniment here.  It's pretty naked song and sound and a personal favorite for both.

Now there's a refreshing artist who's gone out on a limb from time to time. While I admit that I'm not familiar with that specific track, I've always found her music to be well recorded for the most part. Another "acquired taste" to say the least with a style all her own. While being impartial regarding her political/social commentaries, I do enjoy listening to her varied works. She always has fascinating, honest, crude lyrics and plays the guitar quite well. Ordered the aforementioned cd and look forward to listening. If nothing else, Ami is always interesting!
That's the album title, my man.  Don't imagine every track will be involving (who is) but most are for me and I hope for you.  I will be checkin out Pancho Sanchez PDQ.
Yeah I Know... the cd came that same day I posted that. I like it, albeit only pretty much a single listen so far. Her cd's require multiple listens (more so than most artists) before really appreciating the sum of the parts! Incidentally, I happen to very much like that track. Her work tends to grow on you over time.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: TJC712 on 28 Dec 2009, 05:59 am
For any old ELP fans, I just listened to the remastered version of From the Beginning from the Trilogy cd. I found it very interesting (the separation, the harshness of the acoustic guitar, the muted electric lead). I liked it, thought it had a strange sound; curious of others' impressions.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Srgtfury on 28 Dec 2009, 08:27 pm
The Avatar CD, is ging to be a moreor less standard-pick a track, I like 2,11,12 and 13 for Demo)-CD, as it is going to be a movie seen by everyone looking at Salk speakers, and the composition is quite recognizable throughout.  The sound stage, depth and range are all spot on for demo of this genre...

Thank you very much

Fury
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: TJC712 on 29 Dec 2009, 05:19 am
The 1989 recording - Laura Nyro/Live At The Bottom Line is another worthy purchase.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: TJC712 on 29 Dec 2009, 06:07 am
Digging in the rock archives tonight, threw on Jethro Tull's Thick As A Brick. Needless to say, something I haven't listened to in a while. I have to say that the audio quality was amazingly good; pleasantly surprised! Acoustic guitar, vocals, flute, drums, organ all very crisp. While not something I'll listen to often, I was impressed.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 29 Dec 2009, 10:24 pm
PART THREE UPDATE TO THE MASTER LIST:

PAGE 28:

George Harrsion, Jeff Lynn, Bob Dylan, Tom Petty, Roy Orbinson, "Traveling Willburys"

Indigo Girls "Rite of Passage"

Iron and Wine "The Shepards Dog"

"Two Rooms: Celebrating the Songs of Elton John & Bernie Taupin"

Peter Gabriel "Up"

Poncho Sanchez "Psychedelic Blues"

Norah Jones "The Fall'

Oscar Peterson Trio "Oscar Peterson with the Nelson Riddle Orchestra"

Paolo Nutini "The Streets"


PAGE 29:

Basia "Time & Tide"

Traffic "When the Eagles Fly"

Jamie Cullum "Twentysomething'

Gene Ammons "Boss Tenor"

Peter Gabriel "Shaking the Tree"

George Benson "Breezin"

Dave Brubeck "All The Things We Are"

Kurt Ellings "Dedicated to You"


PAGE 30:

Acoustic Alchemy "Natural Elements", "American/English"

Strunz & Farah, "Americas", "Frontera"

Sylvia McNair, "Sure Thing"

Luiz Bonfa "Non Stop Brazil"


PAGE 31:


Ani DiFranco, "Up Up Up Up Up Up"

James Taylor, "James Taylor at Christmas"

Dave Brubeck "London Flat, London Sharp"

Stan Getz and Charlie Byrd. "Jazz Samba"

Jeff Lorber. "Flipside"

Jow Sample, "Old Places Old Faces"

Fourplay, "Between the Sheets"

Pat Coli, "Steps"

Dave Matthews, "Big Whiskey and The GrooGrux King"

Elton John, "Tumbleweed Connection"



PAGE 32:


Laura Nyro, "Live At The Bottom Line"

Jethro Tull, Thick As A Brick"






Link added to the First post in the thread.

All the best
Alex

 aa





Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: TJC712 on 31 Dec 2009, 05:41 am
Some Jazz pearls from a couple of heavyweights: Rosemary Clooney's At Long Last with the Count Basie Orchestra (although recorded in the twilight of her career, she's still Rosie and there's something to be said about the many years of experience singing these standards evident in her performance). Safe to say she knows a thing or two about how to swing... especially backed by that band.
Also check out Kenny Burrell's God Bless the Child; very well done (top flight lineup... Ron Carter, Freddie Hubbard, etc, nice production, great sound).
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: TJC712 on 31 Dec 2009, 06:10 am
Some Jazz pearls from a couple of heavyweights: Rosemary Clooney's At Long Last with the Count Basie Orchestra (although recorded in the twilight of her career, she's still Rosie and there's something to be said about the many years of experience singing these standards evident in her performance). Safe to say she knows a thing or two about how to swing... especially backed by that band.
Also check out Kenny Burrell's God Bless the Child; very well done (top flight lineup... Ron Carter, Freddie Hubbard, etc, nice production, great sound).

Had to throw one more out there after a night of some listening... We Get Requests from The Oscar Peterson Trio; hard pressed to find a tighter jazz trio anywhere. Very high quality sound. Pick out any one of the instruments and just listen and smile.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: lonewolfny42 on 31 Dec 2009, 07:01 am
Some Jazz pearls from a couple of heavyweights: Rosemary Clooney's At Long Last with the Count Basie Orchestra (although recorded in the twilight of her career, she's still Rosie and there's something to be said about the many years of experience singing these standards evident in her performance). Safe to say she knows a thing or two about how to swing... especially backed by that band.
Also check out Kenny Burrell's God Bless the Child; very well done (top flight lineup... Ron Carter, Freddie Hubbard, etc, nice production, great sound).

Had to throw one more out there after a night of some listening... We Get Requests from The Oscar Peterson Trio; hard pressed to find a tighter jazz trio anywhere. Very high quality sound. Pick out any one of the instruments and just listen and smile.

Since you mentioned Oscar Peterson....try one of his finest solo releases.... :thumb:

"Tracks"......Link... (http://allmusic.com/cg/amg.dll?p=amg&sql=10:wxfrxqrgldae~T1)

There is a story that goes along with it....check it out...

http://lostandsound.wordpress.com/2007/12/28/most-perfect-sound-from-the-black-forest/

A few comments....
"Tracks" is a rare solo piano album by Oscar Peterson from 1970 recorded in Germany under the supervision of the noted sound engineer Hans George Brunner-Schwer, owner of the MPS record label. The first thing to note is the superb quality of the recording - the sound of the piano is excellent - resonant, rich, immediate and sonorous with a great dynamic range. The second thing is Oscar's playing: in 1970 he was at the height of his awesome powers and all ten pieces are, without exception, magnificent. The selections can be divided roughly between bravura up-tempo pieces (such as "Give me the Simple Life", "Honeysuckle Rose" and "A Little Jazz Exercise") and slower, more pensive and reflective ballads (such as "Django" and "A Child is Born"). The rendition of "Django" is particularly noteworthy for its emotional range and harmonic explorations. The CD re-issue has reproduced the original cover artwork and, in addition to the original liner notes by Gene Lees, there are new re-issue liner notes by Richard Palmer (editor to Oscar on his recent autobiography). This album is, without question, one of Oscar's finest - a most interesting contrast to his trio work - and highly recommended.

This is one of the few Oscar Peterson solo Piano records. Norman Granz and Duke Ellington had been trying to pursade Oscar to record a solo Piano album for quite a while and in November 1970 this was the result.

The man responsible for producing the album was Hans Georg Brunner-Schwer and he deserves a lot of credit. Its one of the best sounding solo Piano records ever produced. The moment you hear the first track you will begin to wonder how on earth all other Piano albums sound so bad in comparison. What does Hans know that other producers don't?!!

As for the playing, well this is Oscar Peterson at the absolute height of his powers. The opening track will leave you stunned:
Amazing locked hands chord work, wonderful single line improvisations. I'd love to see it written out, the speed and dexterity is unbelievable. In a similar but different vein the ironically titled "A Little Jazz Exercise" is another virtuoso display, incorporating Oscars amazing fast stride playing. Still this is what you'd expect from Oscar.

What you might not expect is his marvellous performances of A Child is Born, Dancing on the Ceiling and Django. These are beautifully played and shows a side of Oscars playing that is frequently ignored because of his amazing technique. OK in some of the solos there are quite a few notes, but the reading of the tunes are restrained and subtle. These tracks are also great demonstrations of the wonderful sound of the Piano on this album.

For me this is one of the 5 best Oscar Peterson records you can get - an absolutely essential purchase.

Amazon Samples.... (http://www.amazon.com/Tracks-Oscar-Peterson/dp/B0009AM658/ref=sr_1_48?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1262242623&sr=1-48)  :thumb:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: jimdgoulding on 31 Dec 2009, 09:29 am
Dang, Wolf, never (never!) seen you so prolific.  Love that passion, bean.  Fellas, and ladies, you might not think a recording made in the early days of stereo (Tom Dowd, bless his heart) is worth a shit today as exemplary.  Well, one dog (and a few others I know of) who's been around loves Mingus' Blues and Roots.  McLean's alto is a might biting and Dannie Richmond's drum kit is spread wide some ala the early days, but this mutha is solid earth, sound and soulwise.  Get a good seat, will ya?
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 31 Dec 2009, 02:10 pm
Hello to All!

Its the last day of 2009, so its the last time this year to get your demo quality recommendations in until NEXT year!!!

 aa

Wolf...great story and great cd for sure!!

There was a person that posted somewhere in the internet 'ether' that asked where can I get speakers that will make a piano sound like a piano...well this cd would be the one cd to test that out with for sure!

All the best!

Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 31 Dec 2009, 04:51 pm
I am listening to Larry Coryell's "Visions In Blue".

Absolutley WONDERFUL...

The Bolero cut is like Oscar Petersons fingers on a piano...but with Larry Coryells fingers on a guitar...

Its 10+ min long but if you will hear an awesome presentation of Bolero by someone that really
can knock it out of the park..

Most of the tracks on this CD are demo quality for sure.

You may have to be in the mood for some...its Coryell playing Ravel and Gershwin...

Thanks to lonewolfny42 for the 'gift'.... aa

All the best
Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 1 Jan 2010, 04:31 pm
Hello!

Happy New Year! This my first post this year!!

 :lol:

I listened to Jamie Cullum's "Catching Tales". Its very well done and recorded well.
Some of the tunes I like are the more slow and deliberate songs, but this is a good demo to listen to.

I also listened to Michael Buble's "Michael Buble".
The first cut "Fever" blew me away....such 3 dimensional presentation...so well done. Again I favor the more slow songs...the Sinatra 'crooner' type...like: Fever, Summerwind, Put Your Head on My Shoulder, and The Way You Look Tonight.

Enjoy!

All the best
Alex
 aa
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: lonewolfny42 on 1 Jan 2010, 06:30 pm
Quote
I am listening to Larry Coryell's "Visions In Blue".

Absolutley WONDERFUL...

Glad you like it Alex....it is "out of print"...but there are a few used on Amazon.... (http://www.amazon.com/Visions-Blue-Coryell-Plays-Gershwin/dp/B0007TYKFK/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1262370213&sr=8-1-catcorr)

Happy New Year....  :beer:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: TJC712 on 2 Jan 2010, 12:29 am
Some Jazz pearls from a couple of heavyweights: Rosemary Clooney's At Long Last with the Count Basie Orchestra (although recorded in the twilight of her career, she's still Rosie and there's something to be said about the many years of experience singing these standards evident in her performance). Safe to say she knows a thing or two about how to swing... especially backed by that band.
Also check out Kenny Burrell's God Bless the Child; very well done (top flight lineup... Ron Carter, Freddie Hubbard, etc, nice production, great sound).

Another fun listen from Peterson is his Plays Count Basie CD with Buddy Rich sitting in and filling out the rythm section. Some up tempo tracks here with Buddy doing some nice brush work.

Had to throw one more out there after a night of some listening... We Get Requests from The Oscar Peterson Trio; hard pressed to find a tighter jazz trio anywhere. Very high quality sound. Pick out any one of the instruments and just listen and smile.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Art_Chicago on 2 Jan 2010, 05:22 am


Had to throw one more out there after a night of some listening... We Get Requests from The Oscar Peterson Trio; hard pressed to find a tighter jazz trio anywhere. Very high quality sound. Pick out any one of the instruments and just listen and smile.

+1! It's been my favorite since I got my first "hi-fi" system in 1996.

Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: lonewolfny42 on 3 Jan 2010, 07:04 am
Here's another you guys might enjoy..... Jazz

McCoy Tyner featuring Michael Brecker - "Infinity" (http://www.amazon.com/Infinity-McCoy-Tyner-Trio/dp/B000003N7Z/ref=sr_1_12?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1262501302&sr=1-12)

Well recorded album on the GRP label....Besides the fact that Tyner's group on this album is unbelievably tight, Brecker's contribution takes this album over the top. His solo on "Impressions" is worth the cost of the album alone.
Rudy Van Gelder was the master recording engineer on this release... :thumb:

Check it out.... 8)
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: oneinthepipe on 3 Jan 2010, 07:59 pm
I opened a Salk owners google group.

http://groups.google.com/group/salk-owners

If BobM sends me an email address, I will send him an invite, and he can upload the file, or if he emails me the file, I will upload the file to the group.  I set the group up as public, and anyone will be able to download the file.

The Salk owners google group was starting to get spam, and I changed the group to a membership group.  Consequently, only members will be able to download, modify, and/or upload the file, which is the only content on the group's site. 

If anyone wants access to the Outstanding Demo CD file or wishes to use the site to share other content, please join.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 5 Jan 2010, 10:02 pm
Thanks for the help on the Salk Owners Google Group to help keep the spam down and allowing those that want to have access to the list via an spreadsheet!!

I got several new demo 'candidates' today and will hopefully post my opinions on them in the next few days.

All the best
Alex
 aa
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: oneinthepipe on 5 Jan 2010, 10:31 pm
Thanks for the help on the Salk Owners Google Group to help keep the spam down and allowing those that want to have access to the list via an spreadsheet!!

I got several new demo 'candidates' today and will hopefully post my opinions on them in the next few days.

All the best
Alex
 aa

Any member can download the file, modify the file, and upload the file to keep the file up-to-date.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: oneinthepipe on 5 Jan 2010, 10:44 pm
Folks,

For those that wish to join the group for access to the spreadsheet and other features, hereunto unused, please include your Audio Circle user name.  In an effort to evade spiders, if your AC user name is not included and verified, you won't be able to join.

I declined two prospective members application because I couldn't find out who they were on the AC members' pages.

1 INP
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: taoggniklat on 6 Jan 2010, 10:30 pm
With regards to the list, am I reading it correctly...

Artist "Album Name" (track name 1) ?
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 7 Jan 2010, 02:13 am
Yes the general format is the Artist, then the CD or Album and sometimes there is a particular track that is mentioned.

In addition you can go to the page that the CD is listed and read additional comments and even send a PM to the person recommending it and ask for other thinks as well.

Thanks for stopping by and be sure to include any demo discs you might want to share.

All the best
Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 7 Jan 2010, 02:18 am
Hello,

I got a copy of Ray LaMontagne's " Till the Sun Turns Black".

The pivotal instrument in this CD is Ray LaMontagne's "voice"!!

This disc is really a gem, the voice is so well recorded!

You can hear so many things in the CD, the reverberations and details are amazing.

There is one track that is an instrumental and the fidelity of the nylon guitar strings are to die for.....its really awesome.

The last cut "Within You" really gets going and sounds so 'full' and its like a breath of fresh air!!

Have I said that the his voice is really done well!!  :wink:

All the best
Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: TJC712 on 7 Jan 2010, 02:23 pm
Beautiful! Thank you!


Your welcome....how about another. :wink:

One that is an older recording, done in 1962....but a true classic....and well recorded.

Stan Getz and Charlie Byrd..... "Jazz Samba"

(http://images.amazon.com/images/P/B0000047CW.jpg)

Samples.... (http://www.allmusic.com/cg/amg.dll?p=amg&sql=10:azfwxq8gldje)

Another CD featuring some very nice interpretations of Jobim music is Double Rainbow by Joe Henderson. He works with 2 different quality ensembles here (1 Brazilian, 1 American), both sounding great in their own regard. A very, very nice recording!
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Russell Dawkins on 7 Jan 2010, 07:49 pm
Under cover of the word "etc..." in the thread's subject line, I came across what I think is an outstanding sounding drumkit demonstration of a cheap home made microphone in a post in another forum. To see the rest of the thread, click in the upper right corner of this page:
http://tinyurl.com/ycpfo2b

The mics in question are used as overheads and in the first two samples are supplemented with close mics, but in the last two are heard alone.

There is no compression or EQ used and the sound is so much better than I am used to hearing I thought some of you would like to hear it.

This is also a testament to great mixing, mic placement and playing. This is one talented guy.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 7 Jan 2010, 11:12 pm
Hi Russell,

Thanks for the post under the cover of "etc"... :)

Even though this was not and is not the real intent of this thread, thanks for the excursion into a new area...its interesting.

But I think this deserves its own thread etc...this thread is really intended for cd recommendations of outstanding quality.

This suggestion is great but will get lost in such a large running topic.

But this is more about recording outstanding material, related but not the same.

Please do not take this the wrong way, I am a techie and like things like this for sure.

All the best
Alex
 aa
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Russell Dawkins on 7 Jan 2010, 11:50 pm
I guess I focused on the word "demo" as being important - demonstration material for testing or showing off speakers, which I think this is. In fact I think this is the best natural drum sound I've heard.


I am totally easy with the notion of moving the post to another thread, though, if the moderator wants to.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: jimdgoulding on 8 Jan 2010, 12:42 am
Those tracks sound superb to me, Russ, on my little Audioengines.  I have to imagine how they would sound on my system, but I mostly can.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 8 Jan 2010, 03:33 am
No real big deal Russ...but again we started this thread with the intent of looking for those outstanding cds that are stellar, well recorded etc...those that make you say WOW...its "demo cd's" not demo material. I purposely said cds back then to leave out SACD's, 5.1 stuff etc...just good ole 2 ch redbook type cd's that are really, really good. :D

Its fine to talk about this type of material but again with over 99% of this thread being centered around cd's that are well recorded and you can buy etc...this type of discussion will easily be lost in this large thread over time.

Enough said about this from me...back to recommendations...

I finished listening to Quincy Coleman's "Also Known As Mary"...I was really moved by this demo quality cd. I had no idea who this person was until it came recommended by another poster. One of the songs is called Blown Away and its really nice. The recording is well done and there is som much going on in this recordoing its a joy to listen to. Hope you all get a chance to listen to it.

All the best
Alex
 aa

Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 9 Jan 2010, 11:11 pm
Ok,

I just finished listening to my second Quincy Coelman CD. This one has two tracks that Jim has on his demo cd'(s).

The album is: Come Closer.

I would not say all the tracks on this cd are Demo quality but most of them are. You can decide which ones are or arent.

Track 5 : Never Happy is a classic for sure.

If you like female voice, and a really good recording this is really one to pick up!

All the best

Alex

 aa
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: WntrMute2 on 10 Jan 2010, 12:10 am
For those into Vinyl.  I found that Little Feet's "Waiting for Columbus" and Janis Ian's "Breaking Silence" are especially dramatic through my new HT-2tls. Worth a listen!
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: TJC712 on 10 Jan 2010, 06:11 am
Jorma Kaukonen's latest release River of Time is worth checking out. Catch some old pros playing some quality tunes recorded at Levon Helm's studio in Woodstock, NY.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: fly_fish_nz on 10 Jan 2010, 06:26 am
I guess I focused on the word "demo" as being important - demonstration material for testing or showing off speakers, which I think this is. In fact I think this is the best natural drum sound I've heard.


I am totally easy with the notion of moving the post to another thread, though, if the moderator wants to.

Maybe not CD's, but great recordings - thanks and please do start another post if you come across more!
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Art_Chicago on 10 Jan 2010, 05:07 pm
Hey, I am not using and would like to depart with a couple of disks:
SACD hybrid-like new-
http://www.amazon.com/Baroque-Music-Brass-Tomaso-Albinoni/dp/B00009YWAQ/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1261272312&sr=1-2-spell

and a used CD
http://www.amazon.com/Sticks-Stones-Dave-Grusin/dp/B000008B3Z

First PM will get both for free.

Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: fly_fish_nz on 10 Jan 2010, 06:46 pm
Hi AC,

I PM'ed you a bit back.  If no one has taken you up on your generous offer, I will.  Just let me know shipping.

Best,

Chris
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Art_Chicago on 10 Jan 2010, 07:48 pm
Sorry Chris, but they are gone now.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Stylus on 10 Jan 2010, 09:17 pm
The Salk owners google group was starting to get spam, and I changed the group to a membership group.  Consequently, only members will be able to download, modify, and/or upload the file, which is the only content on the group's site. 

If anyone wants access to the Outstanding Demo CD file or wishes to use the site to share other content, please join.
I put in a request to join, is that all I have to do?
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 10 Jan 2010, 11:50 pm
Hello,

Has anyone listeded to "Raising Sand" the collaboration between Alison Krauss and Robert Plant?

Some reviews state its 5 star, some indicate the recording is not up to demo standards??

Anyone?

All the best
Alex
 :D
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: oneinthepipe on 11 Jan 2010, 02:39 am
I put in a request to join, is that all I have to do?


That covers it.

There is only the spreadsheet on the group, and I don't think that the spreadsheet has been updated.  adydula listed several additional recordings a few days ago.  If someone is willing to update the spreadsheet, that would be great.  I could do it by row and column, but I think that there might be a more efficient method.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: taoggniklat on 11 Jan 2010, 03:34 am

That covers it.

There is only the spreadsheet on the group, and I don't think that the spreadsheet has been updated.  adydula listed several additional recordings a few days ago.  If someone is willing to update the spreadsheet, that would be great.  I could do it by row and column, but I think that there might be a more efficient method.

I have been working on re-formatting. I should have it done tomorrow I think.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Art_Chicago on 11 Jan 2010, 02:51 pm
Hello,

Has anyone listeded to "Raising Sand" the collaboration between Alison Krauss and Robert Plant?

Some reviews state its 5 star, some indicate the recording is not up to demo standards??

Anyone?

All the best
Alex
 :D

Alex, pages 9 and 12 of the thread. There is hiss on the CD   :( , plz follow the link:
http://www.head-fi.org/forums/f9/raising-sand-hiss-purpose-285419/
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: oneinthepipe on 11 Jan 2010, 04:38 pm
I continue to receive requests to join without AC members' user names in the reason for joining box.  I don't need or desire to have your real email address.  If you prefer, just make up a fake gmail or yahoo account.  Otherwise, I assume that the requests are from spiders.   
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 12 Jan 2010, 01:38 am
Thanks Art for the reply, I will forgo the acquisition for awhile, maybe I will go to Borders and audition live.

Taoggnikdat, thankd for the assist on the list formatting in a spreadsheet.

All the best!
Alex
 aa
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: taoggniklat on 12 Jan 2010, 02:05 am
I have been working on re-formatting. I should have it done tomorrow I think.

Sorry I didn't get to it today, work was crazy busy. Soon I hope!
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: MrAcoustat on 12 Jan 2010, 03:37 am
Byron Metcalf  Wachuma's Wave since 2003 i bring this cd to the Montreal F.S.I. show and every year auidiophiles take note of this cd all the tracks are good BUT the special one is number 5 buy it you won't regret.


(http://i276.photobucket.com/albums/kk7/MrAcoustat/amust.jpg)
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: TJC712 on 12 Jan 2010, 05:31 am
Joan Armatrading's 1st release by the same name has some great tunes very well recorded. Still holds up some 30+ years later.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: oneinthepipe on 12 Jan 2010, 07:50 am
Joan Armatrading's 1st release by the same name has some great tunes very well recorded. Still holds up some 30+ years later.

Yes, there are some very well-recorded tracks.  Her music is very good, too.  I have most of her albums on LP.  I met her after one of her shows in the mid-80s. 
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Atlplasma on 12 Jan 2010, 10:30 pm
Hello,

Has anyone listeded to "Raising Sand" the collaboration between Alison Krauss and Robert Plant?

Some reviews state its 5 star, some indicate the recording is not up to demo standards??

Anyone?

All the best
Alex
 :D

I like this recording a great deal and don't think you would be disappointed owning it. It's also available as a high rez download at https://www.hdtracks.com/index.php?file=catalogdetail&valbum_code=HD011661907522.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Art_Chicago on 13 Jan 2010, 01:40 am
I like this recording a great deal and don't think you would be disappointed owning it. It's also available as a high rez download at https://www.hdtracks.com/index.php?file=catalogdetail&valbum_code=HD011661907522.
yeap, that is what I have-- a hi-rez file from HDtracks... pretty hissy!
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Mr_Superstar on 14 Jan 2010, 01:57 am
A few suggestions that I didn't see anyone mention (or if someone did, I'm sorry, I missed it..)

Tool - Lateralus (the whole CD). I think this CD is extremely well recorded (it's also an HDCD - though I can't really tell a difference).

Also, Enya - "Pax Deorum" on "The Memory of Trees". This song is in latin, I believe. Great recording.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Atlplasma on 14 Jan 2010, 12:53 pm
yeap, that is what I have-- a hi-rez file from HDtracks... pretty hissy!

I popped in my regular CD for a quick listen, and you're right. It's hissy--but the music is nice.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 14 Jan 2010, 02:16 pm
Thanks for all the posts on the "hissing' on the Raising Sand disc.

Also thanks for the suggestion on the Enya "The Memory of Trees". Enya has been recommended in the thread already but not this particular disc. I will look into this one. Thanks!

All the best
Alex
 :eyebrows:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: K Shep on 15 Jan 2010, 02:44 am
I am listening to:

Dido - Safe Trip Home
http://www.amazon.com/Safe-Trip-Home-Dido/dp/B001EO2UKO/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1263523381&sr=1-1

Definitely demo material!
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 15 Jan 2010, 05:51 pm
Thanks K Shep!

Just ordered!!

88 cents!!

Alex

All the best
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: K Shep on 16 Jan 2010, 05:43 am
Thanks K Shep!

Just ordered!!

88 cents!!

Wow, I just looked at Amazon...great price!
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: jimdgoulding on 16 Jan 2010, 09:30 am
Yes, there are some very well-recorded tracks.  Her music is very good, too.  I have most of her albums on LP.  I met her after one of her shows in the mid-80s.
Willl retrieve her first album and listen again.  Thanks.  I dig that song she was popular for.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: TrungT on 16 Jan 2010, 10:33 am
Kelly Sweet
http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewArtist?id=156994273
My son gave me the CD and said "Dad, You gonna like it"
Yes, I do like it.
 :eyebrows:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Kinger on 16 Jan 2010, 12:53 pm
Thanks for that link.  That's some good sounding stuff.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: evan1 on 16 Jan 2010, 12:59 pm
Thanks K Shep!

Just ordered!!

88 cents!!



Alex

All the best


Me too. can't go wrong for that price
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 19 Jan 2010, 12:20 am
Congratulations!!

We just passed 30,000 views!!!

Man this is awesome, many thanks for all those that have contributed to the many really fine selections of demo quality cds!

Yahoo!

All the best
Alex
 :eyebrows:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: K Shep on 19 Jan 2010, 01:15 am
Alanis Morrisettte - Jagged Little Pill Acoustic
http://www.amazon.com/Jagged-Little-Acoustic-Alanis-Morissette/dp/B0009WFF0Y/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1248395439&sr=1-2

I recommended the acoustic version way back, please see above.  On the master list the Morrisette CD is listed as "Jagged Little Pill"  the non acoustic version. Two very different Cds.  Please revise the recommendation on the list. 

Thank you.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: oneinthepipe on 19 Jan 2010, 01:37 am
Kelly Sweet
http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewArtist?id=156994273
My son gave me the CD and said "Dad, You gonna like it"
Yes, I do like it.
 :eyebrows:

Kelly Sweet's version of Aerosmith's Dream On is terrific.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 19 Jan 2010, 03:21 pm
K Shep...

okie dokie..updated!!

Alanis Morisette - Jagged Little Pill - ACOUSTIC Version.

Alex
 :D
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: K Shep on 20 Jan 2010, 12:17 am
Thanks Alex.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: oneinthepipe on 20 Jan 2010, 12:56 am
I recommended the acoustic version way back, please see above.  On the master list the Morrisette CD is listed as "Jagged Little Pill"  the non acoustic version. Two very different Cds.  Please revise the recommendation on the list. 

Thank you.

I ordered the CD (used) last night from Amazon for 3.00 with 2nd day shipping through Amazon Fulfillment.  The CD will be delivered tomorrow.  Not too shabby.  The CD that I ordered is the Starbuck's version, which was distributed before the commercial version was released and which I assume is otherwise identical.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: K Shep on 20 Jan 2010, 02:02 am
I ordered the CD (used) last night from Amazon.

I was never a big fan of Alanis.  I listened to the acoustic CD, which was recorded 10 years after the original CD was released, and loved it.  Very well recorded.  Let me know what you think pipe.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: oneinthepipe on 20 Jan 2010, 04:00 am
I was never a big fan of Alanis.  I listened to the acoustic CD, which was recorded 10 years after the original CD was released, and loved it.  Very well recorded.  Let me know what you think pipe.

I have never been a big Alanis fan either, but I trust your opinion about good recordings. 


Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: oneinthepipe on 21 Jan 2010, 12:28 am
Jagged Little Pill Acoustic-version is very good.  I like (most of it) the music, and the album is very well-recorded.

Thanks for the recommendation.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: coke on 21 Jan 2010, 03:28 pm
Celtic Women: Essential Collection   :thumb:

One the best sounding and most impressive CDs I own.  Very dynamic and seems to be a perfect match for my Salks. 

Probably not everyone's favorite type of music, but I strongly suggest you try this CD.  Track 11 is great for demos.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: K Shep on 21 Jan 2010, 04:43 pm
I'm glad pipe.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: divisionbell77 on 22 Jan 2010, 03:09 am
the xx: xx http://www.amazon.com/XX-xx/dp/B002DESIE6

The entire CD sounds great, highlights are Crystalised, Heart Skipped a Beat, Shelter and Infinity.

Again, the entire CD is great, and I might as just list every song off of it.

A group of 4 20 year old Londoners.  Amazing they sound this good at 20.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 23 Jan 2010, 02:35 pm
Finished listening to Kelly Sweet's "We Are One".

It is really nice, several tunes are to die for  :wink:

Thanks for this recommendation!

All the best
Alex
 :eyebrows:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: ecramer on 23 Jan 2010, 02:40 pm
I may have to buy a pair of Salk Speakers to get in on this  :lol:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: evan1 on 23 Jan 2010, 03:02 pm
I may have to buy a pair of Salk Speakers to get in on this  :lol:

Bubinga , of course
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: charmerci on 25 Jan 2010, 01:24 pm
How could I forget?   

Pat Metheny - Still Life (Talking)

Track 5 - Third Wind
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: chosenhandle on 25 Jan 2010, 02:54 pm
Allen Toussaint Bright Mississippi
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 26 Jan 2010, 03:43 am
Just listened to Dido - Safe Trip Home.

I had no idea who this singer was or is, now I do!

Simple, monotone, slow, deliberate, precise, smooth, exact...just plain different and very wonderful.

Several of the tracks could be demo tracks for Jims Salk Arrival CD's!

K SHep thanks for the recommendation, now I have to look at some of her other cd's....

Oh and yes this cd is a joy to listen to on the SongTowers!! Dang its really good!

All the best
Alex

 :eyebrows:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: lonewolfny42 on 26 Jan 2010, 05:01 am
Allen Toussaint Bright Mississippi

An excellent album... (http://www.amazon.com/Bright-Mississippi-Allen-Toussaint/dp/B001PSQGQI)... :thumb:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: oneinthepipe on 26 Jan 2010, 05:18 am
Just listened to Dido - Safe Trip Home.

I had no idea who this singer was or is, now I do!

Simple, monotone, slow, deliberate, precise, smooth, exact...just plain different and very wonderful.

Several of the tracks could be demo tracks for Jims Salk Arrival CD's!

K SHep thanks for the recommendation, now I have to look at some of her other cd's....

Oh and yes this cd is a joy to listen to on the SongTowers!! Dang its really good!

All the best
Alex

 :eyebrows:

Just ordered the Dido CD.

Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 30 Jan 2010, 12:58 am
Hello,

Richie Havens, "Mixed Bag"....I have had this for about a year now and I searched the thread and thought I recommended it but didnt find it...

So..."Highly Recommeded"

Track #5 "Follow" is the best bass I have ever heard on my SongTowers each time a bass note was plugged it was like "WOW..that was soooooo AWESOME".

http://www.amazon.com/Mixed-Bag-Richie-Havens/dp/B000001FOM/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1264812895&sr=8-1

Thanks to Chris aka Mr. Wolf for this one from a long time back!!

All the best
Alex :eyebrows:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Art_Chicago on 30 Jan 2010, 03:37 am


Track #5 "Follow" is the best bass violin I have ever heard on my SongTowers each time a bass note was plugged it was like "WOW..that was soooooo AWESOME".

http://www.amazon.com/Mixed-Bag-Richie-Havens/dp/B000001FOM/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1264812895&sr=8-1

Thanks to Chris aka Mr. Wolf for this one from a long time back!!

All the best
Alex :eyebrows:

Alex, what is the bass violin? viola (alt) or cello? just curious...
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: lonewolfny42 on 30 Jan 2010, 04:06 am
It's not a bass violin....it's the bass part played by Harvey Brooks.... (http://www.allmusic.com/cg/amg.dll?p=amg&sql=11:acfoxq85ldse).

Here's the album credits....Link... (http://www.allmusic.com/cg/amg.dll?p=amg&sql=10:dxfixq95ld6e~T2)



It's an old album....but a well recorded one...glad you finally got to it Alex... 8)
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Art_Chicago on 30 Jan 2010, 04:17 am
hey, lone wolf! A few words about the sound quality of Allen Toussaint, plz! the demo does sound very intriguing  :thumb:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: lonewolfny42 on 30 Jan 2010, 04:25 am
hey, lone wolf! A few words about the sound quality of Allen Toussaint, plz! the demo does sound very intriguing  :thumb:

Excellent....really !!

Here's All Music's take on the CD...

http://www.allmusic.com/cg/amg.dll?p=amg&sql=10:k9fuxz90ldde

Well worth a purchase... :thumb:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: lonewolfny42 on 30 Jan 2010, 04:55 am
Alex...

Two more oldies but goodies....if you toes aren't tapping, then your dead... :cry: :lol:

First...Bill Withers....you've heard the tunes, here they are all in one spot... 8)

http://www.amazon.com/Lean-Me-Best-Bill-Withers/dp/B00004THKR/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1264825994&sr=1-1

"Songwriter/singer/guitarist Bill Withers is best remembered for the classic "Lean on Me" and his other million-selling singles "Ain't No Sunshine" and "Use Me," but he has a sizable cache of great songs to his credit."

"The singer's warm vocals and wise lyrics have held up splendidly through the years, making him a likely candidate for periodic rediscovery. This anthology stands as the title of choice for the next wave of soul fans Withers wins over."



Second....Boz Scaggs....a guy that's been around for quiet a bit...after first finding acclaim as a member of the Steve Miller Band, singer/songwriter Boz Scaggs went on to enjoy considerable solo success in the 1970s.

http://www.amazon.com/Silk-Degrees-Boz-Scaggs/dp/B000HEZF90/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1264826401&sr=1-1

"We have been waiting for a long time for this to be re-mastered and re-released....Silk Degrees comes alive on this version. The songs, of course, are wonderful, as anyone looking at this already knows and probably has owned it in more than one format. The sound is what draws you in and will keep you coming back for more."

A timeless treasure of blue-eyed soul that rocks !!! :thumb:

Check them out.... :wink:

Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 30 Jan 2010, 12:31 pm
Kool! Chris!

Its snowing in Raleigh, NC !!!

Thanks for the bass correction in the Mixed Bag CD....man this is really a nice cd and Follow really shines so nice, it amazes me that this sound so tight and good sounding comes out of such small boxes...(Good Job Jim & Dennis)...

Ok I have the other 2 on there way!!

Bill Withers! Aint No Sunshine, My Imagination  wow do these bring back memories!!  :eyebrows:

Its good to see this stuff coming out remastered!

Thanks Again!
Alex
 :wink:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 30 Jan 2010, 03:28 pm
Hello Again,

Stuck at home, so why not listen!

Chris Rea. "Road To Hell"

http://www.amazon.com/Road-Hell-Chris-Rea/dp/B000002JOF/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1264865024&sr=8-3

A ten out of a ten.

Golly Gee Batman this is really a very good disc.

So much detail or 'fabric' in the music / songs.

Its really a very special treat, the songs, the material, the words...so good.

This is another recommendation from the speaker "master" Chris aka Mr. Wolf!!!  :D

All the best!

Alex
 :eyebrows:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: K Shep on 30 Jan 2010, 03:37 pm
Just listened to Dido - Safe Trip Home.

K SHep thanks for the recommendation, now I have to look at some of her other cd's....

Alex,

Life For Rent and No Angel or both well recorded. 

Safe Trip Home's first track is wonderful, great bass and separation.  I hope you enjoy Pipe.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 30 Jan 2010, 03:54 pm
Hey KShep...

I was looking at those as well....I also saw a DVD video.

So many choices!! This is good!

I have several new items on the way...and I treated myself to Chris Rea's Farewell DVD.

I will get the other Dido selections for sure!!

Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Art_Chicago on 30 Jan 2010, 04:09 pm
Allen Toussaint Bright Mississippi
An excellent album... (http://www.amazon.com/Bright-Mississippi-Allen-Toussaint/dp/B001PSQGQI)... :thumb:

Thanks, guys, just got from the local library. It is a jaw dropper. If you like New Orleans jazz/blues, this cd is a must-have.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 30 Jan 2010, 04:54 pm
I 'borrowed' some copies of a few Jack Johnson albums in mp3. Am curious if anybody can confirm if these would be demo quality in the correct format. Sure does sound good for mp3, and has the right "qualities" us audio nutjobs would look for in demo music.

Bob
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: zybar on 30 Jan 2010, 05:02 pm
I 'borrowed' some copies of a few Jack Johnson albums in mp3. Am curious if anybody can confirm if these would be demo quality in the correct format. Sure does sound good for mp3, and has the right "qualities" us audio nutjobs would look for in demo music.

Bob

Bob,

Which tracks or albums?

I use some Jack Johnson songs from a couple of his albums as reference/test songs:

Brushfire Fairytales - "Inaudible Melodies" and "Bubble Toes"

On and On - "Times Like These", "The Horizon Has Been Defeated", "Taylor", and "Rodeo Clowns"

George
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 30 Jan 2010, 05:16 pm
Sounds like we're on the same page George. The songs you listed are a couple of the "biggies" in my mind, among others.
The albums I've been listening to are:
- Brushfire Fairytales
- In Between Dreams
- On and On (really like that one)

Looks like it's time to return my mp3 "loaner" and buy the CDs.  :wink:
Thanks George.

Bob
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: nicksgem10s on 30 Jan 2010, 05:30 pm
Hi Bob, about Jack Johnson...

I am reposting my comments from an earlier thread

http://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=63505.0

I am a big Jack Johnson fan and had the pleasure of seeing him live a couple of summers ago and Donovan Frankenreiter opened for him.

My wife took me to that show as a birthday present.  We had a blast.  I am also now a big Donovan Frankenreiter fan.

I have all of his recordings and the first 3 on vinyl also.

I like that Sleep Through The Static was recorded off the grid on solar power and I believe they used analog equipment in the process.   

I think his first three albums were significantly better music wise than the last two.  I really like the recording quality on this latest one.  The music on this last one has grown on me but it is not close to his best work, Brushfire Fairytales.

Just my opinion.

-Nick
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Big Red Machine on 30 Jan 2010, 05:34 pm
Completely agree Nick.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 30 Jan 2010, 06:04 pm
Cool, thanks for the great information Nick!  :thumb:

Bob
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: lonewolfny42 on 30 Jan 2010, 06:45 pm
Hello Again,

Stuck at home, so why not listen!

Chris Rea. "Road To Hell"

http://www.amazon.com/Road-Hell-Chris-Rea/dp/B000002JOF/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1264865024&sr=8-3

A ten out of a ten.

Golly Gee Batman this is really a very good disc.

So much detail or 'fabric' in the music / songs.

Its really a very special treat, the songs, the material, the words...so good.

This is another recommendation from the speaker "master" Chris aka Mr. Wolf!!!  :D

All the best!

Alex
 :eyebrows:

Glad you like it Alex.....now your on the Road To Hell... (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4UYrUeCH6u0)... :jester:

Here's a good bio on Chris Rea....Link... (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chris_Rea)....he's been on a road to hell with his medical condition... :(

Enjoy the DVD.... :thumb:

               Chris
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: oneinthepipe on 31 Jan 2010, 07:38 am
Alex,

Life For Rent and No Angel or both well recorded. 

Safe Trip Home's first track is wonderful, great bass and separation.  I hope you enjoy Pipe.


Got the CD today.  I love the music, and the album is very well recorded.

Thanks for the recommendation.

Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: funkmonkey on 31 Jan 2010, 10:03 am
Alex...

Two more oldies but goodies....if you toes aren't tapping, then your dead... :cry: :lol:

First...Bill Withers....you've heard the tunes, here they are all in one spot... 8)

http://www.amazon.com/Lean-Me-Best-Bill-Withers/dp/B00004THKR/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1264825994&sr=1-1

"Songwriter/singer/guitarist Bill Withers is best remembered for the classic "Lean on Me" and his other million-selling singles "Ain't No Sunshine" and "Use Me," but he has a sizable cache of great songs to his credit."

"The singer's warm vocals and wise lyrics have held up splendidly through the years, making him a likely candidate for periodic rediscovery. This anthology stands as the title of choice for the next wave of soul fans Withers wins over."


I have this disc and I agree, It's a great one.  Great voice, great instrumentation, very soulful recordings.   Good suggestion.

Alright, you guys will probably laugh, and at the risk of losing all musical credibility, but just last night I was listening to some random tunes and one came up that really took me by surprise...   :oops: from the Saturday Night Fever soundtrackBee Gee's - You Should Be Dancing.  I'll be damned for sayin' so, but it really sounded good through my HT3s.  Lot's going on in the recording, good dynamic range, and just plain old fun to listen to.  This is coming from a guy that grew up with WRIF (Baby!) [some of you Detroiters will get that, and know exactly what I mean].  Back in the late 80's I worked in a Detroit area record store, and was still very much of the mind that Disco sucked, when one day local news anchor Bill Bonds came strolling into the store and threw a fit because we didn't have a cassette tape of the Saturday Night Fever soundtrack in stock...   Man, we had a good laugh about that after he had left the store, and joked about it for weeks after.  Now, Here I am, telling you guys how good it sounds.  Go figure.  (honk, honk)  :wink:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: evan1 on 31 Jan 2010, 11:39 am
The Funkmonkey gets funky  :lol:


(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=26108)
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: funkmonkey on 31 Jan 2010, 08:29 pm
Just for the record (pun intended), there is a distinction between disco and funk.  James Brown, Cymande, Funkadelic, Eddie Hazel, Headhunters, Kool & the Gang (pre-1976), The Meters, War...  (and more currently) Galactic, MMW, Garage Mahal, Groove Collective, Dirty Dozen Brass Band...   are all incredible artists that can bring the FUNK.  The actual Disco stuff is more like Bee Gees, Donna Summer...  with strings, multiple overdubs, over-produced, over-played...  well, you know.  But that Bee Gee's track sure did sound good the other day.   :D

okay...  a couple more then, just so you guys don't give me too hard of a time:

Erykah Badu - Baduizm
(http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_xZahGphXgyU/SFwLEbBXP4I/AAAAAAAAGFo/WbO5NWgZNew/s400/BADU+Erykah+1997+BADUIZM+(SPECIAL+EDITION+2CD+2007).jpg)
http://www.amazon.com/Baduizm-Erykah-Badu/dp/B000005AYM (http://www.amazon.com/Baduizm-Erykah-Badu/dp/B000005AYM)

excellent disc...  I linked to, and own, the Special Edition because it has a second CD with a couple extra tracks that I think are worth while, but you can pick up the regular release for about $6 used in good condition.  I used the first two tracks during my speaker auditions Rimshot and On & OnRimshot has some very deep bass which is the reason I was using it, but it's a pretty short song and most of the time I would just let it play well into the second song.  This album is really one of my all time favorites.


Something that is recorded well, has got a groove and is an all around good demo is from one of my long time favorite bands:
Medeski, Martin, & Wood (MMW for short) - Combustication
(http://www.wishyouwerethere.com.au/pictures/albumcoverMedeskiMartinWood-Combustication.jpg)
http://www.amazon.com/Combustication-Medeski-Martin-Wood/dp/B00000AFSZ (http://www.amazon.com/Combustication-Medeski-Martin-Wood/dp/B00000AFSZ)
One of their finest releases.  If you are new to this band this may be a good place to start.  The second track, Just Like I'd Pictured It, sounded excellent when it came up a few days ago.

Although I haven't really been contributing to this thread, until just now.  I've put some of my favorites out there in other, like minded, threads around the net.  I don't want to feel like I am repeating myself too much.  But I have been reading along, and picked up a few titles mentioned in this thread, so thanks to everybody for the recommendations.

Cheers, enjoy

Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: K Shep on 1 Feb 2010, 12:17 am
Laurie Anderson - Life on a String
http://www.amazon.com/Life-String-Laurie-Anderson/dp/B000050K9A/ref=sr_1_6?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1264983291&sr=1-6

She is a trip but, this is tame and very well recorded.  I really enjoy this album.

(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41RRB3CK53L._SS400_.jpg)

Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: K Shep on 1 Feb 2010, 12:20 am
I just figured out how to post a photo of the cover art...that helps.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 1 Feb 2010, 01:37 am
That's very nice Shep. Now, you too, can be sued for copyright infringement.  :wink:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: oneinthepipe on 1 Feb 2010, 01:55 am
Laurie Anderson - Life on a String

OK, I ordered it from the marketplace.  $0.49 plus $2.99 shipping.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: oneinthepipe on 1 Feb 2010, 01:59 am
Erykah Badu - Baduizm

excellent disc...  Rimshot has some very deep bass which is the reason I was using it, but it's a pretty short song and most of the time I would just let it play well into the second song.  This album is really one of my all time favorites.

Baduzium is an excellent disc. 
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Art_Chicago on 1 Feb 2010, 03:59 am
I just figured out how to post a photo of the cover art...that helps.
K Shep, would you mind to share your experience?
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: fishinbob on 1 Feb 2010, 07:22 pm
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=26190) 

I keep going back to this disc when I wish to hear my Salks at their very best.
Sonically it is at the top of the heap for demo purposes and the performance is top notch.
Track 3 of the Fandango at +2db will leave me slack- jawed every time :lol:


http://www.amazon.com/Boccherini-Fandango-Sinfonie-Musica-Notturna/dp/B000E42MPS/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1265049845&sr=1-2
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Art_Chicago on 1 Feb 2010, 07:27 pm
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=26190) 

I keep going back to this disc when I wish to hear my Salks at their very best.
Sonically it is at the top of the heap for demo purposes and the performance is top notch.
Track 3 of the Fandango at +2db will leave me slack- jawed every time :lol:


http://www.amazon.com/Boccherini-Fandango-Sinfonie-Musica-Notturna/dp/B000E42MPS/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1265049845&sr=1-2
:thumb:
It has been my favorite for last year or so. Most discs by Savall at Alia Vox are exellent recordings
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 1 Feb 2010, 11:42 pm
Hello K Shep...

I actually mentioned Laurie Anderson back in Sept:

http://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=63936.msg673085#msg673085

While it was not my favorite, it is demo quality for me...the bass content was absolutley amazing. I sent Jim Salk a note telling him I have not heard this type of guttoral sound from my SongTowers it shocked and amazed me....

Thanks to all the new postings!!

Lots coming in the mail, so much to listen to, so little time!!

All the best
Alex
 :eyebrows:

Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: K Shep on 2 Feb 2010, 01:08 am
Hello K Shep...

I actually mentioned Laurie Anderson back in Sept

I apologize for the duplicate.  Great thing about my computer front end is I am able to listen to Amazon samples through my system.  It isn't the best quality but it helps make a buying decision.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: K Shep on 2 Feb 2010, 01:34 am
K Shep, would you mind to share your experience?

PM sent.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 2 Feb 2010, 03:26 am
Hey K Shep...

No apology needed,  it was just a friendly "hey been there done that"...with this thread getting as large as it is its hard to keep up with it all....please keep the recommendations coming!!

I was just listening to some cuts from some demo discs a friend sent me and they are wonderful..I will have to do some research to figure out what the cds would be etc...I will post in the next few days or so.

I also listened to Michael Buble's "Crazy Love" with my wonderful wife, this is special for me to get her to listen to the stereo in my "man room"  :eyebrows:

She really likes this singer and I was impressed with the dynamics and quality of recording...its a demo candidate for sure.

Back at ya!
Alex
 :wink:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: charmerci on 2 Feb 2010, 10:30 am
Great thing about my computer front end is I am able to listen to Amazon samples through my system.  It isn't the best quality but it helps make a buying decision.

Forget samples. Go to www.musicme.com - you can hear whole albums. It is a French site but even without knowing the language, you can navigate it. (Probably the only useful word you'll need is 'titres' which is titles.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Vulcan00 on 3 Feb 2010, 12:40 am

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=26251)

http://www.amazon.com/Riding-King-Eric-Clapton-B/dp/B00004THAY/ref=sr_1_32?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1265155371&sr=8-32

I was going through some of my older cd's to see how they sounded on my HT2-TLS and came accross this Eric Clapton disc featuring B B King.  Most of the cuts are good. I would really like for others to listen to No. 8 "Worried Life Blues", which is my favorite.  For those who have played around with the guitar or others that have a ear for guitar will reconize/ hear the tone difference between Clapton's Fender and King's Gretchen and their styles. The Salks just do this wonderfully.

Now this of course is blues so it may not be everyones cupoftea.Of note the Bass Player is Nathan East of the Famed Jazz group of FourPlay another of my favorite music makers.

Let me know what ya think.
Harrison
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 3 Feb 2010, 02:01 am
I'll second the Clapton/King "Ridin' with the King".
Good stuff.

Bob
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: ncblue on 3 Feb 2010, 03:29 am
B.B. plays a Gibson 335.
Nat
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 3 Feb 2010, 03:36 am
Hello Again...

I was listening to Mino Cinelu:

http://www.amazon.com/Mino-Cinelu/dp/B000031WXD/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1265167639&sr=8-1

This is really good...Track 6 Outstanding Horizons, is absolutely shocking!!
This CD is 'Ear Candy' as one reviewer put it..

A must have for demo'ing and just listening to LOUD!  :eyebrows:

I also really liked Jimmy Smith's Dot Com Blues:

http://www.amazon.com/Dot-Com-Blues-Jimmy-Smith/dp/B000050J47/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1265168153&sr=1-2

Another gem!!

All the best
Alex
 :D :D

Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: lonewolfny42 on 3 Feb 2010, 05:48 am
Alex....

Yes....that Mino Cinelu Cd is very good....and Track 6 >"Oncoming Horizons"< is a track on the 2006 Rave Cd...powerful stuff...careful with the volume... :o
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: rlee8394 on 3 Feb 2010, 08:37 pm
Nat,

Actually, Lucille is actually based on a custom-built ES-355. See here:

http://www2.gibson.com/Products/Electric-Guitars/ES/Gibson-Custom/BB-King-Lucille.aspx

Ron
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 4 Feb 2010, 01:56 am
Hello!

I have three new cd's from Keiko Matsui.

The first is Cherry Blossom. Its a 24 bit HDCD disc.

Track 8 "Footsteps" is really good. It has real 'bite'.

Keiko Matsui's "stuff" can be very delicate, lots of deep and underlying things going on .... to the more mundane pop jazzy types of the likes of good ole Kenny G!!  :D

If your in the mood, this is good stuff and laid back.

Hearing this material on really good speakers makes it really an exploratory adventure here...well worth the listen..play it loud and smile!

Let you know about the other discs later!

All the best
Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: K Shep on 4 Feb 2010, 02:36 am
I am currently listening to this:

Corrine Bailey Rae - Corrine Bailey Rae
http://www.amazon.com/Corinne-Bailey-Rae/dp/B000HBK3MM/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1265250926&sr=1-2

Good stuff!
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: JerryM on 4 Feb 2010, 02:41 am
Hey Alex,  :thumb:

You're right - Keiko gets it.

Do whatever necessary to get a copy of The Jazz Channel Presents: Keiko Matsui  BET on Jazz. It can be found on CD.

Listen to the last song, Blues Jam. :thumb:   The rest of it is pretty sweet, too.

Have fun,
Jerry
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: TJC712 on 4 Feb 2010, 04:33 am
Haven't been on here much recently, but I see there's been some more fine recommendations. Don't know about everyone else here, but this economy is really killing me... slowed down my music purchases for sure. But anyway, kinda moving in a different direction from Keiko, was listening to Sia's Color The Small One earlier and found it quite interesting; made me stop and listen a bit. Will have to listen a bit more to really get a grasp. But was wondering if anyone here is familiar with her stuff?   TC
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: ncblue on 4 Feb 2010, 05:16 am

rlee8394,
Nice catch. I knew it was in the same Gibson "family". B.B. could probably make any guitar sing though!
Nat
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: oneinthepipe on 4 Feb 2010, 05:35 am
I am currently listening to this:

Corrine Bailey Rae - Corrine Bailey Rae
http://www.amazon.com/Corinne-Bailey-Rae/dp/B000HBK3MM/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1265250926&sr=1-2

Good stuff!

I have her self-titled debut album and The Sea, which was released last week.  I like the debut album much better.  However, there is a scratchy sound on the beginning of track 4, Till It Happens To You, which I think was added to sound like a "record" on a "record player".  I can't remember if that effect is present on other tracks, but the special effects prevent this from being an Outstanding Demo CD, IMO.  Beautiful music, nonetheless. 

Sia has some good albums.  I have them all.  Some People Have Real Problems is very good.

If you like female singers and singer/songwriters, check out Rachael Yamagata's Live at the Loft (good demo), Keren Ann's Not Going Anywhere, Priscilla Ahn's A Good Day, Shelby Lynne's Just a Little Lovin' (little mastering and has a little distortion in the recording of the vocals in one track), Mia Doi Todd's GEA, and anything from my favorite, the brilliant Martha Wainwright (her self-titled album is not very well-recorded, IMO, but her earlier EPs are fairly well-recorded).

There are many other contemporary female singers that I like that might have been mentioned in earlier posts, such as Kelly Sweet, Sonya Kitchell, Vienna Teng, Rachael Loshak (Mint is good), Meiko, KT Tunstall, Regina Spektor, Bird York, Erin Bode, Kate Havnevik, Leslie Feist, and Imogen Heap.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: oneinthepipe on 4 Feb 2010, 05:39 am
B. B. played other guitars besides the Gibsons.  I watched B.B. play in several clubs in Memphis in the mid-80's, and I remember him playing a Gretsch double-cutaway on one occasion. 
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: K Shep on 4 Feb 2010, 05:40 am
Pipe, don't bust your nut all on one post  :) save some recommendations for later.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: oneinthepipe on 4 Feb 2010, 05:44 am
Pipe, don't bust your nut all on one post  :) save some recommendations for later.

I type very quickly.  No broken shells under my chair.

I can't vouch for the recording quality of those artists' albums.  i just like the music.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: K Shep on 4 Feb 2010, 05:49 am
Pipe, have you tried Adele - 19?
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: oneinthepipe on 4 Feb 2010, 05:50 am
Beth Orton's Central Reservation is very nice.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: oneinthepipe on 4 Feb 2010, 05:55 am
Pipe, have you tried Adele - 19?

Yes, I have Adele's album.  Do you like Duffy?   If you like younger singers, you might like Ingrid Michaelson and Anna Nalick; very pop stuff, in the Colbie Caillat genre, maybe.

Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: oneinthepipe on 4 Feb 2010, 05:57 am
A Girl Called Eddy.  Great stuff. 

Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: K Shep on 4 Feb 2010, 06:01 am
Female Vocal with a twist.

Tracy Thorn - Out of the Woods
http://www.amazon.com/Out-Woods-Tracey-Thorn/dp/B000KJTCS2/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1265262603&sr=1-1

See is the other half of the band "Everything but the Girl" you gotta try this.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: oneinthepipe on 4 Feb 2010, 06:04 am
Female Vocal with a twist.

Tracy Thorn - Out of the Woods
http://www.amazon.com/Out-Woods-Tracey-Thorn/dp/B000KJTCS2/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1265262603&sr=1-1

See is the other half of the band "Everything but the Girl" you gotta try this.

Ordered. Thanks.

Check out Bat for Lashes.

Also, you might like St. Vincent.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: K Shep on 4 Feb 2010, 06:09 am
Anna Nalick and A Girl called Eddy.  Both sound good. 

I listen to the Amazon samples upstairs in my listening room through my Mac > Ayre DAC to my system.  Doesn't sound as good as the ripped CD but good enough to make a purchase.

Thanks
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: oneinthepipe on 4 Feb 2010, 06:18 am
That's what I did with Tracey Thorn.  Then, I found a copy from an Amazon Fulfillment seller on the Marketplace for $6.93 with Amazon Prime second-day delivery.  Amazon Prime is a good deal for anyone that frequently purchases from Amazon; Tracey Thorn's album was my third Amazon purchase in 24 hours.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Vulcan00 on 5 Feb 2010, 11:40 am
Two new cds came in today Rene olstetead & Kelly Sweet which you guys recommended.

Really like Rene.

Thanks
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: oneinthepipe on 5 Feb 2010, 04:19 pm
Kelly Sweet took some time to grow on me.  After a while, I began to focus on her wonderful voice, however, rather than the musical genre.  Dream On and Crush are my favorite tracks on the CD.  I think that her cover of Dream On is great.

FedEx just delivered Tracey Thorn's Out of the Woods.  Will listen when I get home.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Kinger on 5 Feb 2010, 04:22 pm
Kelly Sweet is definitely on my list of future albums to purchase.  Like what I heard in the Amazon preview.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: TrungT on 6 Feb 2010, 11:19 am
Plumb
Please check out:
http://www.amazon.com/Chaotic-Resolve-Plumb/dp/B000AGTQG8/ref=ntt_mus_ep_wlb_dpt
All Plumb CD are good and none of them alike.
 :eyebrows:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: TJC712 on 8 Feb 2010, 05:11 am
For the old guys... from the mothball archives... listened to the remastered version tonight of Rough Mix by Peter Townsend/Ronnie Lane (cir. 1976/77?). I enjoyed it; sounded pretty good. A couple of real good tracks on there.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 13 Feb 2010, 04:50 pm
Hello,

Try Natalie Cole's "Ask A Woman Who Knows"....this is a really nice CD that shows off this female singers voice and talents for sure!

http://www.amazon.com/Ask-Woman-Knows-Natalie-Cole/dp/B0000646GK/ref=ntt_mus_ep_wlb_dpt

All the best
Alex
 :eyebrows:

Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: K Shep on 13 Feb 2010, 08:06 pm
Try Natalie Cole's "Ask A Woman Who Knows"....

I just placed an order on Amazon $0.01 + shipping.

Thank you
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: vintagebob on 13 Feb 2010, 08:31 pm
I just placed an order on Amazon $0.01 + shipping.

Thank you

Thanks K Shep, snagged one too.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 14 Feb 2010, 03:28 pm
Hello!

Here is another really great cd:

Kenny Rankin's "A Song For You"


http://www.amazon.com/Song-You-Kenny-Rankin/dp/B000068359/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1266161200&sr=1-5

But its not .01 cents on Amazon...just a wee bit more!

Enjoy!

All the Best
Alex
 :eyebrows:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: TJC712 on 14 Feb 2010, 06:51 pm
Wynton Marsalis-Standard Time (Vol. 3)    Great recording filled with a number of outstanding tracks featuring some fine playing.

Samples - http://www.amazon.com/Standard-Time-Vol-3-Resolution-Romance/dp/B00000273Y/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1266173262&sr=1-3
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 15 Feb 2010, 01:52 am
Wynton Marsalis-Standard Time (Vol. 3)

Yea, what he said.
I've got volumes #2 and #3. Both great.

Bob
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: lonewolfny42 on 15 Feb 2010, 04:57 am
Alex...
Quote
...a really nice CD that shows off this female singers voice and talents for sure!

Here's another....Alison Krauss - "A Hundred Miles or More: A Collection". :wink:

http://www.amazon.com/Hundred-Miles-More-Collection/dp/B000ND91SG/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1266209632&sr=1-1
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Vulcan00 on 15 Feb 2010, 02:09 pm
Would someone tell me what the $.01 cent sale is. i buy from amazon and looked for it but still dont know.
Thank you
Harrison
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: SwedeSound on 15 Feb 2010, 02:35 pm
I think what these penny deals are referring to are used CD's. Most Amazon CDs also have a link to "also available from $X.XX" from these sellers... And then you'll see a list of CDs in various conditions for various prices. In some cases, for as little as a penny. You pay $2.98 for shipping and handling, but that's still a good deal, and I've bought MANY CDs from private sellers that way. If I'm wrong, somebody point me to the new cd's for a penny.  :D
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: K Shep on 15 Feb 2010, 02:58 pm
I think what these penny deals are referring to are used CD's. Most Amazon CDs also have a link to "also available from $X.XX" from these sellers... And then you'll see a list of CDs in various conditions for various prices. In some cases, for as little as a penny. You pay $2.98 for shipping and handling, but that's still a good deal, and I've bought MANY CDs from private sellers that way. If I'm wrong, somebody point me to the new cd's for a penny.  :D

Swede is correct.  You may purchase a used CD for $0.01 + $2.98 shipping.  I recently purchased this used Beastie Boys CD for one cent, the Natalie Cole CD price is now $0.17.  Demand will raise the price on Amazon.

http://www.amazon.com/Hello-Nasty-Beastie-Boys/dp/B000007TE8/ref=sr_1_6?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1266245645&sr=1-6
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Vulcan00 on 15 Feb 2010, 03:32 pm
Thanks Swede and K Shep,
I have purchased used CDs on Amazon but have never seen the $0.01 price. I will look for sure. By the way of the many Cds I purchased online I have yet to be disapointed untill last week. I ordered a Lyle Lovet >Josua ( something) and recieved the DTS surround sound version. Being surround sound was ok but there was no 2 channel .  However something was wrong with the disc  skipped. I let the seller know and they said to trash the cd and they would refund the money.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: K Shep on 15 Feb 2010, 07:31 pm
I have purchased used CDs on Amazon but have never seen the $0.01 price.

Vulcan,

Click on the link above.  There you will find a CD priced at 0.01.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: oneinthepipe on 16 Feb 2010, 01:42 am
I have only had two problems with used CDs from Amazon marketplace.  One time, a CD skipped but played fine after being cleaned.  The other time, there wasn't a CD in the case.  I received an empty case, and the seller refunded my money.

Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 19 Feb 2010, 12:27 am
Another really great CD:

Al Jarreau's "All I Got".

http://www.amazon.com/All-I-Got-Al-Jarreau/dp/B000069KJ6/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1266538993&sr=8-2

This wonderful cd can be had for 94 cents + Shipping and handling!!

Enjoy!

All the best
Alex
 :eyebrows:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: TJC712 on 19 Feb 2010, 01:57 pm
Alex,

Good call on that Natalie Cole cd. Quality selection of tunes, smooth vocals backed by some top flight players, well mixed... all adds up to a quality listen. Thanks, very much enjoyed listening to this!  Tim
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: K Shep on 19 Feb 2010, 02:30 pm
Alex,

Good call on that Natalie Cole cd. Quality selection of tunes, smooth vocals backed by some top flight players, well mixed... all adds up to a quality listen. Thanks, very much enjoyed listening to this!  Tim

+1.

Thank you Alex.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 19 Feb 2010, 02:31 pm
Kool!!

Glad you liked it!!

Alex
 :eyebrows:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 22 Feb 2010, 04:03 am
A little off track but I must mention this experience:

I really like Chris Rea and discovered him via this thread. I bought a CD and really liked it.

Recently I bought the Road To Hell Farewell Tour DVD and its an almost 2 hour experience that is really awesome.

Sorry to go a little astray from the 2 ch outstanding theme!!  :wink:

But if you like Chris Rea...go get this, listen, watch and enjoy!!

All the best!

Alex
 :eyebrows:
Note: I have a stack of CD's to review!!! Yahoo more later this week.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: TJHUB on 26 Feb 2010, 01:14 am
Hello Again...

I was listening to Mino Cinelu:

http://www.amazon.com/Mino-Cinelu/dp/B000031WXD/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1265167639&sr=8-1

This is really good...Track 6 Outstanding Horizons, is absolutely shocking!!
This CD is 'Ear Candy' as one reviewer put it..

A must have for demo'ing and just listening to LOUD!  :eyebrows:


All the best
Alex
 :D :D

I just received my Mino Cinelu CD today and WOW!  COOL STUFF!

I have no idea what they're singing about, but the quality and dynamics are amazing.  It's a real pleasure to listen to.

I also picked up Peter Gabriel's "UP" which I'm also enjoying very much.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: taoggniklat on 26 Feb 2010, 02:01 am
I just received my Mino Cinelu CD today and WOW!  COOL STUFF!

I have no idea what they're singing about, but the quality and dynamics are amazing.  It's a real pleasure to listen to.

I also picked up Peter Gabriel's "UP" which I'm also enjoying very much.

Just ordered a copy myself

Along with David Foster and Friends bluray
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: K Shep on 26 Feb 2010, 02:43 am
I just received my Mino Cinelu CD today and WOW!  COOL STUFF!

I just listened to the sample tracks on Amazon.  Order placed!
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Ronm1 on 28 Feb 2010, 12:54 pm
The Hunter - Jennifer Warnes
Blues Union - Ronnie Earl
A Deeper Blue - Bruce Katz Band
Paganini for Two - Shaham/Sollcher
Midnight Blue - Kenny BurrellRVG
Rossini: Sonate per Archi 1-6 -NBK Exrleben
200 Miles - Cowboy Junkies
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Rich5616 on 28 Feb 2010, 05:26 pm
Hi everyone,
I purchased the Natalie Cole cd mentioned not aware of an sacd version.
Worth a possible upgrade ?
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: taoggniklat on 2 Mar 2010, 05:18 am
My Natalie Cole  disc arrived today.....its been a long day so it is a perfect end to the day. Thanks for the suggestion
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: divisionbell77 on 2 Mar 2010, 02:09 pm
the xx: xx http://www.amazon.com/XX-xx/dp/B002DESIE6

The entire CD sounds great, highlights are Crystalised, Heart Skipped a Beat, Shelter and Infinity.

Again, the entire CD is great, and I might as just list every song off of it.

A group of 4 20 year old Londoners.  Amazing they sound this good at 20.

Not sure if anyone has given this band a try, but they are starting to explode.  They were on a commercial during the Olympics, and even now Perez Hilton has jumped on board: http://perezhilton.com/2010-03-01-listen-to-this-25

Really good CD, highly recommend.  Not one person I have pointed towards this CD has not liked it.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: TJC712 on 3 Mar 2010, 02:38 am
Going back to 1959 (year I was born); Songs I like To Sing by Helen Humes backed by Marty Paich's band. Both singer and band really swing on these cuts, audio very good (kudos to rythm section), a very, very good (albeit not commonly recognized) jazz recording.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Art_Chicago on 3 Mar 2010, 03:35 am
http://www.amazon.com/Property-Gordon-Goodwins-Phat-Band/dp/B0000CABHC/ref=cm_cr_pr_pb_t

Big Phat Band XXL - an amazing dynamic range! the sound stage is like on Miles and Gurtu -- unlimited
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: TJC712 on 3 Mar 2010, 04:21 am
Samples sound great ("Broad" comes to mind!). I just ordered it on Amazon. Thanks for the recco!  Tim

http://www.amazon.com/Property-Gordon-Goodwins-Phat-Band/dp/B0000CABHC/ref=cm_cr_pr_pb_t

Big Phat Band XXL - an amazing dynamic range! the sound stage is like on Miles and Gurtu -- unlimited
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: lonewolfny42 on 3 Mar 2010, 07:38 am
You might also check out this one from Gordon Goodwin...

http://www.amazon.com/Swingin-Fences-Gordon-Goodwins-Phat/dp/B0006SSP7G/ref=ntt_mus_ep_wlb_dpt

That first track "Sing Sang Sung" is on the 2007 NYAR disc... :wink:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: taoggniklat on 3 Mar 2010, 09:58 pm
Baduzium is an excellent disc. 

This just arrived in the mail. So far I have to agree this an excellent disc
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: taoggniklat on 4 Mar 2010, 08:10 am
I took some time tonight to format the demo list spreadsheet. I uploaded it to the Salk Owners group. Take a look at it and let me know if it is not working. I used Excel07 but saved it as a 2003 format.

I tried to correct the errors where I found them (ie spellings, etc). If I incorrectly identified an album, track or artist please feel free to correct it.

Enjoy!
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: lonewolfny42 on 6 Mar 2010, 06:00 am
Alex...

An "oldie but goodie" (1989)... instrumental - Jazz Latin sound, well recorded on the Reference Recordings label....one I think you will enjoy... :thumb:

(plus....used on Amazon is a bargain) :wink:

Jim Brock - "Tropic Affair" (http://www.amazon.com/Tropic-Affair-Jim-Brock/dp/B000001580)
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 8 Mar 2010, 01:57 am
Hey Chris,

Thanks for the recommendation, unfortunatley I got a pink slip at work and am hard at 'work' trying to stayed employed!!  :cry:

As soon as my situation stabilizes I will be more attentive!!

All the best
Alex
 :eyebrows:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: lonewolfny42 on 8 Mar 2010, 06:58 am
Hey Chris,

Thanks for the recommendation, unfortunatley I got a pink slip at work and am hard at 'work' trying to stayed employed!!  :cry:

Good luck with your search Alex.... :thumb:

Let me see if I can help you out with some music.... :wink:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: taoggniklat on 9 Mar 2010, 03:36 pm
I just received my Mino Cinelu CD today and WOW!  COOL STUFF!

I have no idea what they're singing about, but the quality and dynamics are amazing.  It's a real pleasure to listen to.

I also picked up Peter Gabriel's "UP" which I'm also enjoying very much.

My Mino Cenula came yesterday and all I can say is awesome. Even on my modest setup (ie salkless) the sound was amazing.

Very good suggestion.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: funkmonkey on 9 Mar 2010, 11:04 pm
My Mino Cenula came yesterday and all I can say is awesome. Even on my modest setup (ie salkless) the sound was amazing.

Very good suggestion.

agreed...  it even sounds great in my truck.

Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: K Shep on 10 Mar 2010, 12:46 am
... unfortunatley I got a pink slip at work and am hard at 'work' trying to stayed employed!! 

Sorry to hear.

Good luck to you Alex.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: oneinthepipe on 10 Mar 2010, 02:05 am
I got a pink slip at work and am hard at 'work' trying to stayed employed!!  :cry:

As soon as my situation stabilizes I will be more attentive!!

All the best
Alex
 :eyebrows:

Sorry to hear that, Alex.   Hang in there.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: mort on 11 Mar 2010, 03:33 pm
Sting: Feilds of dreams. Great imaging and explosive dynamics.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 14 Mar 2010, 11:38 pm
Mort,

Thanks for the STING recommndation, I will look into this as soon as I find employent!!  :D

Thanks for the kind words guys...we are in the hunt for sure!

See ya all soon!

All the best
Alex!
 :eyebrows: :eyebrows:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: S Clark on 15 Mar 2010, 01:50 am
Sting: Feilds of dreams. Great imaging and explosive dynamics.
It is very good, but second to his "Brand New Day" cd.  Maybe even third to "Mercury Falling".  Sting just does a good job with most of his recordings.

Another cd that I recommend it Patty Larkin's "Regrooving the Dream".  It's almost as well done as her "Angel's Running" that has been recommended earlier.

Scott
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: funkmonkey on 15 Mar 2010, 04:32 am
Not sure if it's been mentioned yet, but one disc that sounds good every time a track comes up on random is Kruder & Dorfmeister, The K&D Sessions™.  Lush soundscapes & mellow beats... aural candy.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: K Shep on 15 Mar 2010, 04:21 pm
Not sure if it's been mentioned yet, but one disc that sounds good every time a track comes up on random is Kruder & Dorfmeister, The K&D Sessions™.  Lush soundscapes & mellow beats... aural candy.

Kruder & Dorfmeister: K&D Session
http://www.amazon.com/K-D-Sessions-Kruder-Dorfmeister/dp/B00000G257/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1248555773&sr=1-1

K&D is one of my favorites!
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: sanlanman on 16 Mar 2010, 02:33 am
Adydula, Hang in there man. I lost my good paying job back in October and am still looking.
This thread has been the source of some good music finds and you played the major part in it.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: funkmonkey on 16 Mar 2010, 05:11 am
K&D is one of my favorites!

okay, +1 then  :thumb:

Has any one else suggested Thievery Corporation?  If you are into K&D I'm sure you know and like them as well...  if not you should check them out.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: divisionbell77 on 16 Mar 2010, 01:38 pm
Ok, if you like Thievery Corporation and/or K&D, check out Les Hommes album Les Hommes and the EP Mood is Modal.  Also check out Nicola Conte's album Jet Sounds, and the band Koop's albums Koop Islands and Waltz for Koop.

If you like Zero 7(you should know them if you know TC or K&D), check out The XX.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 17 Mar 2010, 01:17 am
Hello,

During my hiatus trying to find employment I have not had the time to just sit around and listen to good music... :(

But last night I just had to take a break and I listened to this:

Sting's 10 Summoner's Tales:

http://www.amazon.com/Ten-Summoners-Tales-Sting/dp/B000005IL1/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1268788233&sr=8-2

I have had this cd for several weeks and it was a real treat to be a enjoy music again! This enhanced cd is very well recorded and plays so nice on my SongTowers.

Ok back to the job search!!

All the best
Alex
 :eyebrows:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: ctouhey on 19 Mar 2010, 01:39 am
+1 for anything Sting.  I've got most of the releases and have seen him live (post Police) several tiimes.  I have the Mobile Fidelity Sound Labs Original Master Recording of The Dream of the Blue Turtles as well as the dts release of Brand New Day which I purchased about 10 years ago or so.  Good stuff.

But, having just received my HT3s, I want to mention Walter Hyatt.  Most of you will never have heard of him, but he was a wonderful musician/composer.  Living in Texas I was able to see him a few times before his death, and it was amazing live.  He died in the 1996 crash of the ValuJet in the Florida Everglades.  Left behind a wife and son; I went to the tribute concert in Austin.  Very moving.

Anyway, I put on King Tears with the HT3s, and realized this fits into the demo category.  So very well recorded, great dynamic range, good and varied material.  The on-line databases (when you burn) classify this as Country, but I classify it between Jazz and Laid Back.  At least many of the cord progressions are Jazz.

I looked to see if it was still available, and Amazon has new and used.  New is out of the question - $50 - $100.  But they have $5.00 used copies. (Or PM me.)

Amazon Link:
http://www.amazon.com/King-Tears-Walter-Hyatt/dp/B000002P4T/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1268961535&sr=1-1

Chris
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: TJC712 on 22 Mar 2010, 11:56 pm
+1 for anything Sting.  I've got most of the releases and have seen him live (post Police) several tiimes.  I have the Mobile Fidelity Sound Labs Original Master Recording of The Dream of the Blue Turtles as well as the dts release of Brand New Day which I purchased about 10 years ago or so.  Good stuff.

But, having just received my HT3s, I want to mention Walter Hyatt.  Most of you will never have heard of him, but he was a wonderful musician/composer.  Living in Texas I was able to see him a few times before his death, and it was amazing live.  He died in the 1996 crash of the ValuJet in the Florida Everglades.  Left behind a wife and son; I went to the tribute concert in Austin.  Very moving.

Sting always a good listen for all the right reasons. I have to add that I really like this Walter Hyatt CD. Very good recco.

Anyway, I put on King Tears with the HT3s, and realized this fits into the demo category.  So very well recorded, great dynamic range, good and varied material.  The on-line databases (when you burn) classify this as Country, but I classify it between Jazz and Laid Back.  At least many of the cord progressions are Jazz.

I looked to see if it was still available, and Amazon has new and used.  New is out of the question - $50 - $100.  But they have $5.00 used copies. (Or PM me.)

Amazon Link:
http://www.amazon.com/King-Tears-Walter-Hyatt/dp/B000002P4T/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1268961535&sr=1-1

Chris
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: TJC712 on 23 Mar 2010, 12:00 am
+1 for anything Sting.  I've got most of the releases and have seen him live (post Police) several tiimes.  I have the Mobile Fidelity Sound Labs Original Master Recording of The Dream of the Blue Turtles as well as the dts release of Brand New Day which I purchased about 10 years ago or so.  Good stuff.

But, having just received my HT3s, I want to mention Walter Hyatt.  Most of you will never have heard of him, but he was a wonderful musician/composer.  Living in Texas I was able to see him a few times before his death, and it was amazing live.  He died in the 1996 crash of the ValuJet in the Florida Everglades.  Left behind a wife and son; I went to the tribute concert in Austin.  Very moving.

Anyway, I put on King Tears with the HT3s, and realized this fits into the demo category.  So very well recorded, great dynamic range, good and varied material.  The on-line databases (when you burn) classify this as Country, but I classify it between Jazz and Laid Back.  At least many of the cord progressions are Jazz.

I looked to see if it was still available, and Amazon has new and used.  New is out of the question - $50 - $100.  But they have $5.00 used copies. (Or PM me.)

Amazon Link:
http://www.amazon.com/King-Tears-Walter-Hyatt/dp/B000002P4T/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1268961535&sr=1-1

Chris

Oops! My bad. As I buried in my last attempt...   Sting is always a good listen for all the right reasons. This Walter Hyatt CD is quite good. Thank you for the suggestion!
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: OgOgilby on 28 Mar 2010, 04:07 pm
Hello,

During my hiatus trying to find employment I have not had the time to just sit around and listen to good music... :(

But last night I just had to take a break and I listened to this:

Sting's 10 Summoner's Tales:

http://www.amazon.com/Ten-Summoners-Tales-Sting/dp/B000005IL1/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1268788233&sr=8-2

I have had this cd for several weeks and it was a real treat to be a enjoy music again! This enhanced cd is very well recorded and plays so nice on my SongTowers.

Ok back to the job search!!

All the best
Alex
 :eyebrows:

Good call on Summoner's Tales Alex! I have had it for a long time but hadn't listened to it with my current setup (I was tired of the "hits" on it). Wow, it sounds so much better than I remembered it.

That caused me to dig out Sting's "The Soul Cages" just to try it out on the Salks. Wow, a giant sound stage that sounded like surround sound at times. Never noticed that with my old setup. Similar to the sound stage on David Gilmour's "On an Island".
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 29 Mar 2010, 09:10 pm
OgOgilby,

Yes this is a really nice CD to listen to, I never really liked Sting when he first came out, but it sure has grown on me in my ripe old age of '60'  :D

I have a new job!! Unfortunately its at reduced salary but at least I have a job and healtcare benefits to cover my wife's illness...!! Thanks to the guy upstairs!!   :D

I got a really NICE care package from Chris, aka lonewolfny42...and I have some listening to do!! Thanks so much!!

Hope to get around to posting in a few days!!

Hey have you noticed that this is the most viewed & posted thread on the Salk Circle?!?! This is awesome, I am so glad that all of you out there have taken the time to share your Outstanding CD selections over the last year or so...keep them coming!!

All the best
Alex
 :eyebrows:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: lonewolfny42 on 30 Mar 2010, 03:40 am
Alex....

Quote
I have a new job!! Unfortunately its at reduced salary but at least I have a job and healthcare benefits to cover my wife's illness...!! Thanks to the guy upstairs!!

That's the best news of all.....good luck!  :beer:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 30 Mar 2010, 05:04 pm
Hello!

Not since the days of my old Magnapan's have I heard such wild and crazy music....especially the xylophone and tympani!

The SongTowers do such a wonderful job with this type of music.... :wink:

This CD is what I would call an 'Outstanding Demo CD'.

You may not like this type of music, its not the Beatles or Jazz!!

But a demo cd it is: The Best of Martin Dennys Exotica!!!!

http://www.amazon.com/Best-Martin-Dennys-Exotica/dp/B000E6ELHI/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1269968155&sr=1-2


Its really different and really neat to listen to...Give it a try, it may sound all the same but there is so much going in these various cuts its amazing.

It made me laugh and smile  a bunch!!

Thanks  Chris!

All the best
Alex
 :eyebrows:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: lonewolfny42 on 30 Mar 2010, 05:31 pm
 ....It is fun and interesting Alex.... :wink:  :lol:

Martin Denny audio interview... (http://minusbaby.vox.com/library/audio/6a00c2251c04e5604a00d4144af12c3c7f.html)

Martin Denny info.... (http://www.spaceagepop.com/denny.htm)

Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 30 Mar 2010, 11:29 pm
On the Martin Dennys Exotica.....listen to the conga drums on track #10, "Caravan"...play this LOUD and smile alot!!

Its really neat!!

Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 30 Mar 2010, 11:36 pm
Ok this is 'to me' and OMG recording....

Its INTENSE and I did not recognize most of the tracks except for Sunshine of Your Love...

No its not Clapton and Cream  :D

Its another 'lonewolfny42' selection:

Jimi Hendrix's "Valleys of Neptune" the version I listened to had the 2 extra tracks...

My ears are 'sore' I listened loud and long...oh well it was well worth it.

Normally when I listen to the old stuff (1969) I expect mediocre recordings etc..but this cd is pleasantly AWESOME. I usually look for the A side songs etc, and to me most of these are not A-Side songs but Hendrix's playing and talent are just freaking (oops) amazing!!

To be able to go back this far in time and relive/recreate these experiences makes this a Demo CD for me!!

Rock On 'Jimi'!!
 8)

All the best
Alex
 :eyebrows:

Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 1 Apr 2010, 02:22 am
Ok heres something really different..especially from listening to Jimi Hendrix!

Joshua Bell's "At Home With Friends"....

http://www.amazon.com/At-Home-Friends-Joshua-Bell/dp/B002LMSWSC/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1270087990&sr=8-1

Relaxing, Haunting at Times, Melodic, Changing, can you say 'Violins, Regina Spektor, Josh Grogin, Frank Moreno, Sting, Chris Botti, Kristin Chenoweth and more!!

The common thread is the violin, but the overall content is varied to say the least, you will not be 'bored'. Give this one a listen, and if your in the mood you will smile alot....dont judge the whole by listening to only the first track...its that different all the way thru. Lots of surprises!

Its well done, sounds great...My favorites are Para Ti, My Funny Valentine, and the almost one minute piano introduction on I'll Take Manhatten,

Again Thanks to Chris!

All the best
Alex
 :eyebrows:

Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Vulcan00 on 2 Apr 2010, 03:10 pm
When Fourplay has a new release I usually buy it, as I did with their new CD “Energy”. This Cd ranks imo as up there with Fourplay’s best.  I later found it also comes as a Hybrid SACD so being the super nut than I am I ordered the SACD version. I got the CD last week have been listening to the 2-channel format for a week now. The sound Quality is top rate. This morning I noticed that this hybrid CD also has a 5.1 multichannel format, so I thought I would give it a try even though I have found my tastes has been almost solely 2 channel lately. This is one of the finest multichannel recording and mixes I have heard.

So those of you that like new jazz should give this one a listen. Those that have multichannel SACD players really should listen to this it just great.

The cut” Prelude for lovers” is my suggestion for Demo quality. It features Fourplay with vocals from Esperanza Spalding, simply good!



(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=28501)

http://www.amazon.com/Energy-Fourplay/dp/B001D94L48/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1270219237&sr=1-2
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 4 Apr 2010, 03:55 am
Hey Vulcan00,

Thanks for the recommendation!

I will have to get a hold of your selection!

All the best
Alex
 :eyebrows:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 4 Apr 2010, 10:46 pm
Hello,

Heres another Jazz Classic...nothing fancy just really great stuff, wonderful recording..

Jack McDuff's "Down Home Style;:

http://www.amazon.com/Down-Home-Style-Jack-McDuff/dp/B000005H7W/ref=sr_1_12?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1270421082&sr=1-12

Memphis in June is Sweet ...and So is Groovin!

Enjoy!!

All the best and thank Chis!

Alex
 :eyebrows:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 8 Apr 2010, 11:42 pm
Hello Fans!

Where is everyone??

I just listened to:  Al Koopers's "Rekooperation"

http://www.amazon.com/Rekooperation-Al-Kooper/dp/B000000FOQ/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1270769779&sr=1-1

This is a really, really great CD. It has to be on my all time best top 10 list for sure.

There are so many of the tracks that could easily be on a SALK demo cd etc.

These guys are just so good.

Wonderful recording....this one should make you guys and gals that have ribbon tweeters get hot flashes all over!!! :lol: 8) :lol:

Get it Quick for a little as $6.00 at the A.

Play it LOUD and smile alot!

All the best
and thanks Chris!!

Alex
 :eyebrows: :eyebrows:



Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Art_Chicago on 9 Apr 2010, 01:59 am
Hello Fans!

Where is everyone??


I guess it is a springbreak
Cheers
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Mr_Superstar on 9 Apr 2010, 02:57 am
I purchased "The Great Cold Distance" by Katatonia, which came with a 5.1 DVD-Audio Disc.

This is the first multi-channel audio I've listened too (other than the DVD concerts of Pink Floyd & Led Zeppelin). It is AMAZING. What a different experience.

The only issue is that it's really only a 4.1 master. There is no center-channel information. Doesn't matter though, with the SongTower's, you'd think the center was playing anyway.

Also, this DVD made me a believer that DACs can sound different.

I have my Oppo 980H connected to my Marantz 7002 using HDMI, Coax & 5.1 analog audio outputs. I can play the DVD-Audio over HDMI or the 5.1 analog outputs (can't use coax because of DRM).

In any case, I REALLY prefer the sound over the analog outputs. For some reason it just seems more balanced.

In any case, if you like metal, I'd recommend you checking out this CD/DVD combo.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 9 Apr 2010, 01:30 pm
I'm still here and lurking as well.
Just haven't heard anything good enough to list.

Bob
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 9 Apr 2010, 05:25 pm
Cool!

Good to at least know you guys and gals are out their 'lurking'!! LOL

I have been thru a really stressful cycle of the job loss, finding another one and not really feeling that focused on listening to music when you are the bread-winner in the family!

Than God I have a new job, and benefits so we can carry one for a few more years...

Enough of this , getting over spring 'flu' here as well but have finally found some time to listen, and the joy is still there, the SongTowers still amaze me, and I am constantly reminded that things could be worse!!


So keep your recommendations trickling in...

All the best!
Alex
 :eyebrows:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: K Shep on 9 Apr 2010, 08:27 pm
Hello Fans!

Where is everyone??

I'm here too.  I just picked up a few excellent albums and wanted to share but I'm having trouble finding the link to the master list and how would one access it.  Alex would you please post how to access that master list?

Kirk

Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 10 Apr 2010, 07:50 pm
Hello K Shep...

http://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=63936.msg714079#msg714079

Oneinthepipe created a group on Google that you can join and download the master file to date.

http://groups.google.com/group/salk-owners

On the first post in this thread there are links to PART1, PART2 and PART3 of all the CD's as of 12/29/2009.

I need to do a PART 4 and get the list updated!!

Hope this helps.

All the best
Alex
 :eyebrows:

Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: eclein on 10 Apr 2010, 08:05 pm
Lee Ritenour "Smoke and Mirrors", he is one of the few cats out in LA that really knows how to tweak his sound. I had the honor of playing several sessions with him, check it out..its easily in my top five best demo CD's. :thumb:
 Sorry--not a SALK guy YET!!! saving to be one though.....
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 11 Apr 2010, 12:22 pm
eclien,

So Kool!

You actually played with Lee Ritenour, yes this is a honor...

I actually like his playing and discovered him via the GRP label in the 90's.

I have the following in my collection:

On The Line
Color Rit
Harlequin
Portrait
Earth Run
Festival

I have not listen'd to these in years, so thanks for the reminder and recommendation, I will go back a see if they are of demo quality and post in the near future.

I do not have the one you recommended, Smoke and Mirrors, but will have to look into it for sure.

Nice meeting you!

All the best
Alex
 :eyebrows:


Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: K Shep on 12 Apr 2010, 04:54 am
Thanks for your help Alex...saved to my hard drive now  8)

A friend turned me on to this:

Daivd Elias - Crossing
http://www.amazon.com/Crossing-Multichannel-Hybrid-David-Elias/dp/B000ALMTXK/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1271047837&sr=1-1
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 14 Apr 2010, 12:52 am
Hello,

International Guitar Night II.

http://www.amazon.com/International-Guitar-Night-II-DGary/dp/B000VWYUU8/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1271206118&sr=8-2

This is a guitar afficiando's dream...this is really a best of the best.

The tonality, the talent, the awesome display of total control of their instruments...

Enjoy this one.

Thanks Chris once again!

All the best
Alex
 :eyebrows: :eyebrows:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: lonewolfny42 on 14 Apr 2010, 05:57 am
Quote
International Guitar Night II...

I give all the credit to AC member Russell Dawkins... (http://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?action=profile;u=37838)...a fine job with that album.

Here's a little more Mr. Dawkins... (http://www.6moons.com/industryfeatures/armenia/armenia.html).. :thumb:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Atlplasma on 14 Apr 2010, 11:58 am
A public radio feature on Bill Withers prompted me to buy his Greatest Hits cd. The recording is very clean and makes for an enjoyable listening session.

http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_ss_i_1_6?url=search-alias%3Dpopular&field-keywords=bill+withers+greatest+hits&x=0&y=0&sprefix=bill+w

Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 18 Apr 2010, 10:05 pm
Thanks Atlplasma for the recommendation on Bill Withers, I certaintly enjoyed him playing !

Nice to meet you!!

All the best..

Alex

 :eyebrows:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Atlplasma on 19 Apr 2010, 01:12 pm
You're welcome. I've been really nostalgic for the 1960s lately--although some recordings (like The Best of Wilson Pickett) sound awful. Pickett's cd, in particular, sounds like it was recorded at the bottom of a well.

Steve
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: S Clark on 20 Apr 2010, 06:00 pm
Manhattan Jazz Quintet-  "My Funny Valentine"
This group hasn't gotten much coverage here at AC, but this recording and performance is excellent.  Wonderful dynamics and imaging. These are mostly Julliard type studio guys (you may remember Lew Zoloff from his Blood Sweat and Tears days).   I'll be looking to pick up more of their cds.

Hmmmm, the image doesn't want to paste.  Oh well, here is the link.
http://www.amazon.com/Funny-Valentine-Manhattan-Jazz-Quintet/dp/B0002RNB34/ref=sr_1_9?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1271786334&sr=1-9


(http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/images/B0002RNB34/sr=1-9/qid=1271786334/ref=dp_image_0?ie=UTF8&n=5174&s=music&qid=1271786334&sr=1-9)
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 22 Apr 2010, 01:21 am
S Clark,

Thanks for your recommendation and nice meeting you!

I have about 15 or so CD's in the quque to listen to and report.

I will look intothe Manhattan Jass Quintet..

Chris have you listened to these guys?

All the best
Alex
 :eyebrows:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: lonewolfny42 on 22 Apr 2010, 04:25 am
"I will look into the Manhattan Jazz Quintet..

Chris have you listened to these guys?"



Alex....

Good group....top players...what's not to like.
Hard to give you "samples"....since they record for a Japanese label....but You Tube is your friend...some live and recorded material....

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HXLcS7yOjhg

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IbsUQSpho_0

And some history....

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Manhattan_Jazz_Quintet
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: polarbare on 28 Apr 2010, 04:09 pm
Right now I have a few CD's that have been spending a lot of time in the player

Cat Power - Jukebox
Holly Cole - Temptation
Dido - Safe trip home
Ry Cooder - Crossroads soundtrack

Not all the songs are recorded fantastic, by my Salks just seem to open them up.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: K Shep on 28 Apr 2010, 04:23 pm
Right now I have a few CD's that have been spending a lot of time in the player

Cat Power - Jukebox
Holly Cole - Temptation
Dido - Safe trip home
Ry Cooder - Crossroads soundtrack

Not all the songs are recorded fantastic, by my Salks just seem to open them up.

Safe Trip Home makes the rounds in my system too, the low end on track one is nice!
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: mathgeek97 on 28 Apr 2010, 04:48 pm
Right now I have a few CD's that have been spending a lot of time in the player

Cat Power - Jukebox
Holly Cole - Temptation
Dido - Safe trip home
Ry Cooder - Crossroads soundtrack

Not all the songs are recorded fantastic, by my Salks just seem to open them up.

Cat Power - "You Are Free" is frequently played on my Salks as of late.  Definitely check it out if you want some good indie rock, singer/songwriter music.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 28 Apr 2010, 07:12 pm
Mathgeek97, KShep..

Thanks for the recommendations, I have the Dido, Safe Trip home. I am not familiar with
Cat Power, I will check it out for sure.

I have a stack of cd's to review and hope to get thru them soon!

All the best
and Great Listening!

Alex

 :eyebrows:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Ronm1 on 28 Apr 2010, 07:34 pm
Out of this mood - Lyambiko is a good spin, the trio is excellent, plus imho its recorded very, very well.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 29 Apr 2010, 01:04 am
Ok,

I just finished listening to:

http://www.amazon.com/Roadrunning-Mark-Knopfler-Emmylou-Harris/dp/B000F0UV0E/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1272502375&sr=8-2-spell

Mark Knopfler and Emmylou Harris "All the Roadrunning"

Track 3, 'This is Us" (Play this LOUD)
Track 10, 'Beyond My Wildest Dreams'

These are my favorites on this CD, but the overall CD and its content is very, very nicely done. I am not a country fan big time, but I really enjoyed this CD.

Well recorded and well done..CW, Rock etc..

Try it you'll  like it!

All the best and thanks to Chris!
Alex

Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: scp2 on 29 Apr 2010, 11:47 am
Dido - Safe trip home


I am going to order this...there are two versions standard and deluxe...anyone know the diffrences?
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 29 Apr 2010, 02:01 pm
Scp2..

for the DIDO Safe Trip Home...

From the Amazon description:

"On the Deluxe version of the album there 3 more tracks that all are great additions"

I dont know if the recording is any different technically.

Alex
 :eyebrows:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Ronm1 on 29 Apr 2010, 02:06 pm


Mark Knopfler and Emmylou Harris "All the Roadrunning"

Try it you'll  like it!


Already have it, like it too, though I haven't listen'd in awhile.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: polarbare on 29 Apr 2010, 03:54 pm
Cat Power - "You Are Free" is frequently played on my Salks as of late.  Definitely check it out if you want some good indie rock, singer/songwriter music.

Actually picked that up yesterday from the used CD store (along with "The Greatest" and a bunch of other stuff).
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 5 May 2010, 12:49 am
Hi!

Just finished listening to: Pat Metheny's Solo CD "New Chautauqua"


http://www.amazon.com/New-Chautauqua-Pat-Metheny/dp/B0000261O4/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1273020039&sr=8-1

Wow, this is really nice.

I really enjoyed it, I think you need to be in the mood as with certain music that you may not be used to or familiar with.

This is a vintage 1979 performance, from what I read its a rare SOLO compilation from Pat Methany.

Awesome!

Thanks Chris

All the best
Alex

 :eyebrows:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 5 May 2010, 01:31 am
Hello Again!

I just finished listening to the N.Y Audio Rave - Reference Tracks - 2009

I do not have all the cd's so I can't comment on the overall quality of the cd's that these
songs are on. But the samples on this disc are certaintly of 'demo' reference quality for
sure.

So here are my favorites and maybe those of you that have the complete cd may want to add some
remarks as to the overall quality of the disc itself.

1. Black Coffee Peggy Lee  - WOW this is nice.
http://www.amazon.com/Black-Coffee-Peggy-Lee/dp/B0002XNMCS/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1273020606&sr=1-1

2. Bolivia - Brian Bromberg "Holy Cow, this is freaking awesome!!! :>)

http://www.amazon.com/Wood-II-Brian-Bromberg/dp/B000EHQ7JW/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1273021149&sr=1-1

3. 200 More Miles - Cowboy Junkies - I have both of the vds and highly recommend them both:

http://www.amazon.com/Trinity-Session-Cowboy-Junkies/dp/B000002WCL/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1273021213&sr=1-1

http://www.amazon.com/Trinity-Revisited-DVD-Cowboy-Junkies/dp/B0011XFOGU/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1273021213&sr=1-3

4. Race : In   by the Battles, Never heard of them until now.  Another WOW, have no idea about the rest of the disc.

http://www.amazon.com/Mirrored-Battles/dp/B000OLHGBQ/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1273021806&sr=1-1

5. Blackbird - The Beatles. Very nice, the remastered version to me is just as good as it will ever get

http://www.amazon.com/White-Album-Remastered-Beatles/dp/tracks/B0025KVLU6/ref=dp_tracks_all_2#disc_2

6. Golden Rust - Robert Miles & Trilock Gurtu ...Another WOW be careful playing this LOUD :>)

http://www.amazon.com/Miles_Gurtu-Robert-Miles/dp/B0001AVZ5S/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1273022124&sr=1-1

7. Follow - Richie Havens...I have this and it AWESOME

http://www.amazon.com/Mixed-Bag-Richie-Havens/dp/B000001FOM/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1273022220&sr=1-1

8. While My Guitar Gently Weeps by Jake Shimabukuro..I dont usually like remakes and people that take my childhood heros "The Beatles" and try to re-invent their stuff....I will make an exception on this one! Excellent talent here and awesome sound.

http://www.amazon.com/Gently-Weeps-Jake-Shimabukuro/dp/B000HIP44M/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1273022434&sr=1-1

9. Growing Up by Peter Gabriel ...another WOW and Awesome etc!!

http://www.amazon.com/Growing-Up-Peter-Gabriel/dp/B00008XFBA/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1273022524&sr=1-3

10. My Skin by Natalie Merchant -  What to say its GOOD!

http://www.amazon.com/Ophelia-Natalie-Merchant/dp/B000006OAM/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1273022626&sr=1-1

I did not include all the tracks but this is a really good sampling and I am sure it will lead to many other recommendations over time!

All the best to lonewolfny42!!

Alex

 :eyebrows: :eyebrows:

Note: Plug for the SongTowers...with such a wide range of music the SongTowers handled them all very, very well!! you go Jim!
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: lonewolfny42 on 5 May 2010, 03:11 am
Alex....

One track that I'm surprised you did not mention....“You Haven’t Done Nothin’ “ by Jen Chapin....that was played many times at RMAF '09....it was a hit there....but the rest of her album is just...so-so.

http://www.amazon.com/Revisions-Stevie-Wonder-Jen-Chapin/dp/B002A4Q62K/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1273028974&sr=1-1
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Art_Chicago on 5 May 2010, 03:22 am
N.Y Audio Rave reference CD

Is it available in any form?

Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 7 May 2010, 02:17 am
Art_Chicago...

Send me a PM.

Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 13 May 2010, 03:24 pm
Hello!

Been really busy with life in general but did manage to get my new toy up and running, a Logitech Squeezebox Touch and I was looking for CD's that I have not yet listened to...here a nice one I came across last night testing the new interface:

Dido's "Life For Rent"

http://www.amazon.com/Life-Rent-Dido/dp/B000089RVR/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1273763988&sr=8-5

All the best and more to come!

Alex

 :eyebrows:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 17 May 2010, 09:38 pm
Hello!

Absolutely Stunning:

Eva Cassidy "Live at Blues Alley"

http://www.amazon.com/Live-Blues-Alley-Eva-Cassidy/dp/B000009PO2/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1274132017&sr=8-1

This is a 10 out of a 10.

She is no longer with us but what a voice and what talent...

Autumn Leaves is to die for.....Blue Skies...oh my..

Get this one NOW!!

All the best and thanks Chris!!

Alex
 :eyebrows: :eyebrows:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Rocket on 18 May 2010, 01:07 pm
Hi Alex,

I haven't read the entire thread but as a suggestion can we have the sound quality of the music listed?  I just don't like poor quality recordings on salk sound speakers.

It helps me a lot because I buy so many dud cd's that it isn't funny.  I generally use amazon to import my cd's from US to Australia and any help is appreciated.

Regards

Rod
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 18 May 2010, 01:53 pm
Rocket,

Hello nice to meet you!

The whole idea for recommendations from the start of the thread was and still is to identify those cd's that are really great, and really have good sound quality.  Demo quality etc.

I too like many of us have purchased many 'dud' cd's...that just have poor recording, sound dull and lack lustre etc..

For the most part most of the cd's that have been identified in this thread are of demo quality...but please be aware many of them may not be your personal musical taste. I have said in many posts that the content may not be  ' my cup of tea' or ' i am not a fan of country music' etc...but none the less this recording is exceptional etc.

To set a standard and apply a number etc would be hard to do ..but comments from posters on the sound quality is always welcome.

Take a look at the first thread and the links to the lists, you can see many recommendations and go back and read the comments etc, many of which speak to the sound qualitiy or certain selections on the cd that someone considers exceptional.

If you purchased the cd's listed in these links I would say most of them are really great sound quality, and they would make a wonderful start of a great collection.

 :eyebrows:
All the best
Alex

Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: K Shep on 18 May 2010, 04:41 pm
I haven't read the entire thread but as a suggestion can we have the sound quality of the music listed? 

Rocket,
adydula explained it perfectly above.  I would like to add that all of the recommendations I've made here are what I consider very well recorded.  I have purchased about 10 recommendations from the list here too and they have all been excellent. 
A rating system would be difficult.  Just like it would for speakers or electronics.  What I will say is IMO you can't go wrong picking up any of the many CD's that fall in genre of music you enjoy.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: lonewolfny42 on 18 May 2010, 09:04 pm
Quote
All the best and thanks Chris!!
Your welcome as always Alex.... :thumb:

Try the Allison Krauss....and Sara K. recordings... :wink:

(Hope the new job is going well... :D)
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 18 May 2010, 11:11 pm
Hey Chris,

Funny you should mention those. I just finished listening to Sara K and Chris Jones.

http://www.amazon.com/Are-We-There-Yet-Sara/dp/B000CA7VQY/ref=sr_1_11?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1274223997&sr=1-11

Just when you think you have heard it all, there are no more really great demo cds'..then Chris pulls another winner out of the bag.

Just a voice and guitar....what magic...and the recording LIVE is really very, very well done.

I did not have a clue who Sara K was...and I am glad I got to listen to this CD.

Its superb...my favorite was and still is her singing 'Vincent'...

Demo Quality ...FOR SURE...sound quality excellent.

Go get it ..!!

All the best

Alex!

 :eyebrows: :eyebrows:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 19 May 2010, 01:30 pm
Hello Again!

There have been many mentions in this thread about Allison Krauss. So this isnt new news but I have not listened to this particular CD until late last night:

A Hundred Miles or More: A Collection

http://www.amazon.com/Hundred-Miles-More-Collection/dp/B000ND91SG/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1274275563&sr=8-1

Its quite a collection of wonderful sounds...Allisons voice is really a gift and I never get tired of listening to it.

The piano opening on Get Me Through December is wonderful...


There are several cuts that could ealisy fit on Jim's Demo Cds'..

Enjoy

All the best
Alex
 :eyebrows:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 23 May 2010, 04:19 pm
Dave Chesky's "Club de Sol"

http://www.amazon.com/Club-Sol-David-Chesky/dp/B000003GEZ/ref=sr_1_fkmr0_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1274631498&sr=8-1-fkmr0


Wow another really great demo cd.

Thanks Chris..and where are YOU all !!

Come on guys/gals there has to be more great CD's out there!!

 :eyebrows:

Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: S Clark on 23 May 2010, 05:22 pm
Another Manhattan Jazz Quintet- you guys have got to look into this group- but wait until I've picked up a collection of their work off ebay  :D.

(http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2354/2300929881_883ba825d2.jpg?v=0)


Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 24 May 2010, 01:50 am
S Clark!

WOW now thats a big cover art shot!!  :D
Thanks for the recommendation!

I was listening to James Taylor's "October Road".

http://allmusic.com/cg/amg.dll?p=amg&sql=10:aifexqqaldje

WONDERFUL, WONDERFUL, Absolutely WONDERFUL.

The recording is really well done, the overall timbre is lucious!

What a really nice listen...I could listen to this over and over and continue to be amazed
how well this CD sounds. So many really neat sounds and little sonic surprises.

The SongTowers really excell in this type of music, its just freaking amazing how well this CD and the SongTowers play so well together!

Hope you enjoy this cd as much as I did and will do!!

All the best
Alex

 :eyebrows: :eyebrows:

PS: Yes thanks to Chis again!!
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: lonewolfny42 on 24 May 2010, 05:42 am
Alex....
In the Jazz vein....check out the Brock and Garson cd's... enjoy....:wink:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 28 May 2010, 10:31 pm
Happy Memorial  Day!

Jim Brock's "Tropic Affair"

http://www.amazon.com/Tropic-Affair-Jim-Brock/dp/B000001580/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1275085694&sr=8-5

Amazing material, wide dynamic range, be careful with the volume, I played it loud and
smiled a lot!!

Try this one you will like it...demo material for sure!

All the best
Alex
 :eyebrows: :eyebrows:
(thanks Chris!)...
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Kinger on 29 May 2010, 11:54 am
Just gave Tropic Affair a preview on Amazon Alex.  Man that sounds pretty good!
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: jimdgoulding on 29 May 2010, 12:26 pm
Think the Mapleshade label should be mentioned here if it hasn't been already- www.mapleshaderecords.com and click on About Us for an intro to how they get the incredibly live sound and transparency they do. 
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 29 May 2010, 12:44 pm
Hello Kinger,

Jim Brock also has this one: Letters - From -The - Equator

http://www.amazon.com/Letters-From-The-Equator/dp/B000QQTMC0/ref=sr_1_11?ie=UTF8&s=dmusic&qid=1275136821&sr=8-11

I actually like this one better, but both are VERY good...kind of reminds me of Larry Carlton when the guitar stuff occurs and a lot like Spyrogyra with more brass ie trumpets etc.

Dyanmic range in many of the tunes is really WIDE.

Glad you like the selection it will make u smile!

Jim, I will look into the Mapleshade label, never heard of them, any particular selections that are your favorite?

All the best
Alex
 :eyebrows:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: jimdgoulding on 29 May 2010, 01:20 pm
Sure thing, Alex.  Sound Roots by Andy KcKee and NEXT is some avant/funk/jazz that has outrageously clean and wide dynamics and an in room presence that'll have you looking around for a waitress!   Listen loud.  Good looking room, man. 
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 30 May 2010, 06:22 pm
Hello!

Gospel Music...well...some of the greatest music is rooted in gospel..ie Ray Charles, Sam Cooke etc...

With that this selection of Ben Harper and The Blind Boys of Alabama " There Will Be A Light" is awesome..

http://www.amazon.com/There-Light-Harper-Blind-Alabama/dp/B0002MPPVK/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1275243414&sr=8-1

I found myself really getting caught up in the energy of a lot of the selections.

Genuine emotion and Demo quality for sure!

All the best and thanks Chris!

Alex
 :eyebrows:

Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: lonewolfny42 on 30 May 2010, 06:33 pm
Think the Mapleshade label should be mentioned here if it hasn't been already- www.mapleshaderecords.com and click on About Us for an intro to how they get the incredibly live sound and transparency they do.

I always liked this one from Clifford Jordan... :thumb:

"Live At Ethell's...." (http://www.mapleshaderecords.com/cds/56292.php)

Quote
incredibly live sound and transparency
Yep..... :dance:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 1 Jun 2010, 02:24 am
Hello Again!!

Well this was a real surprise, and I am so glad the great music of demo quality does not seem to be running out!!

Johnny Cash: American - IV - Man Comes Around.

http://www.amazon.com/American-IV-Man-Comes-Around/dp/B00006L7XQ/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1275358407&sr=1-3

This is a superb recording and awesome.

The guitar sound in this recoding is as close to perfect than I have ever heard.
It sounds so good, what a treat, Johnny Cash plucking a steel stringed guitar that sounds so real and lifelike, it fills my listening room and my jaw dropped on the floor several times.

You can hear and sense the depth of the soundstage...what a sonic treat!.

What a strong recording, and what an American Icon...fabulous.

Oh and by he way I am not really a country fan..but I do appreciate the person and what he does on this cd.

I could listen to this over and over and never get tired listening.


Did I say the guitar sounds really, really nice!!
 :eyebrows:

All the best
Alex


PS: Chris this one is really awesome!
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: lonewolfny42 on 1 Jun 2010, 02:30 am
Quote
PS: Chris this one is really awesome!

It really is Alex...glad you enjoyed it ! :thumb:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: HAITIMAN on 8 Jun 2010, 02:17 pm
Warm, cozy, and intimate.
You gotta hear "Route 66"
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=31334)
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 9 Jun 2010, 12:26 am
HAITIMAN!!

So cool, thanks for the recommendation!

Route 66...

Thanks
All the Best
Alex
 :eyebrows:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: HAITIMAN on 9 Jun 2010, 12:46 am
Get your kicks....
"Why is it that a well-recorded sultry female voice singing classic songs with sparse instrumentation seems to stir something within the souls of audiophiles everywhere? Darned if I know. All I can say is that I’m as big a sucker for that kind of recording as the next guy. So, as I was strolling the crowded halls at the Montreal audio show this past spring, I was drawn into the room where this disc, A Tribute To Julie London by Canadian singer Doreen Smith, was playing. Ah, now this was more like it! (Of course, the fact that the electronics were by Nagra and the speakers by Sonus Faber didn’t hurt either.)

I’m familiar with Julie London (mostly as an actress, though), but the singer, Doreen Smith, and label, Fidelio, were new to me. But -- pause here while I give away the ending -- if the rest of the Fidelio catalog is anywhere near as good as this disc, I’m going to be the poorer for it. This is one fine album, both musically and sonically.

Most of the songs are recorded with only Smith’s voice, an acoustic bass and either an electric or acoustic guitar, joined occasionally by an alto sax and percussion. Ms. Smith has one of the most sensual voices I’ve heard in a long time -- and, as for the sound, well, I’ll get into that in more detail later, but it’s right up there with the best I’ve heard. So all the parts seem to be here. But do they all fit together and make a complete album? Let’s see.

We all have our fair share of albums that feature female vocalists doing songs in this vein, so why should this disc excite attention? Because there is a great deal of love and respect shown here by Ms. Smith for London’s work. And because Ms. Smith has a way with these songs, as well as a vocal style that will grab you right from the get-go and make you cry when this disc ends. When she opens this album singing "That Old Feeling," she’ll give you that old feeling, easily.

Julie London covered all of the songs recorded here during her ten-year, 31-album career except for one, "Route 66," which was written by her late husband, Bobby Troup. Yet, when Ms. Smith reaches that song (it’s number eight on the hit parade), you'll find it hard to believe that London never sang it -- it fits in so well here both stylistically as well as vocally. And the cover of London’s biggest hit, "Cry Me A River," will have you scurrying to your local used-vinyl emporium looking for any of Julie’s albums. (Ha ha, I already got there -- you're too late!)

As for the sound of A Tribute …? Superb, top rate, one of the best I’ve heard, very natural, yada, yada, yada. What’s that? You want more of a description? OK, but beware, superlatives are about to roll.

Let’s start with the vocals. They’re up-front and very three-dimensional -- so much so that, as you listen, Ms. Smith will be joining you, singing to you alone. (What do you mean, you listen with others? What are you reading this part for? You’re no true audiophile!) You can hear her breathe and feel the way her voice caresses the mike as she forms the words. Fidelio only used two custom-made microphones for this recording, one hung above the room and one for Ms. Smith.

The bass is deep, appropriately wooden, and plucky. You’ll be able to follow the bassist as he plucks each string; you can practically hear the rosin flaking off the horsehair as he draws his bow across. The guitars are easy to follow, and you’ll be able to identify each of the three different ones used (two electric and one acoustic). Transients are excellent. There is air aplenty around both the instruments and Ms. Smith, giving the sense of the performance inhabiting a real space. My only complaint is that there isn’t much in the way of ambience here. The acoustic is rather dry. I know that may sound contradictory, based on what I just wrote above, but if you listen, you’ll hear what I’m talking about. But that’s a pretty minor one problem, given the overall quality of the recording.

This is a demo-quality disc. It’s also a wonderfully musical disc. It’s two, two, two discs in one; and how rare is that, brother audiophiles? I’d love to hear this on vinyl (hint, hint, nudge, nudge). Fidelio has a winner here. A Tribute To Julie London offers excellent vocals and superb sonics, both being about as good as CD gets. You’ll want this disc for its sound alone, but you'll listen to it over and over for its musical content. And isn’t that what this hobby’s supposed to be all about?

John Crossett
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Rich5616 on 9 Jun 2010, 04:12 pm
Can anyone offer advise where I can purchase the
Doreen Smith cd. Amazon does not list it.
 Thanks.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: HAITIMAN on 9 Jun 2010, 05:09 pm
www.fidelioaudio.com
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Rich5616 on 9 Jun 2010, 05:15 pm
Thanks HAITIMAN !
 Ordered and waiting with bated breath.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: martyo on 9 Jun 2010, 05:37 pm
Thanks HAITIMAN !
 Ordered and waiting with bated breath.

How did you do that? I was there an hour ago and they were out of stock. After reading your post I went back and they are still out of stock. Am I missing something? :scratch:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: writeface on 10 Jun 2010, 12:08 am
I have the same problem. It is out of stock! However, this label is a great find for me. I am loving the samples. Will order many titles soon.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: lonewolfny42 on 10 Jun 2010, 12:25 am
You might check here...

http://www.canadacd.ca/en/browse/?productNumber=FACD006&browse=1&page=1



Another...Not currently in store....allow 1 to 2 weeks to ship....

http://www.gellatlymusic.com/webstore/view.php?iid=8530
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: martyo on 10 Jun 2010, 02:46 pm
You might check here...

http://www.canadacd.ca/en/browse/?productNumber=FACD006&browse=1&page=1



Another...Not currently in store....allow 1 to 2 weeks to ship....

http://www.gellatlymusic.com/webstore/view.php?iid=8530

Thanks Chris, canadacd worked just fine. :thumb:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: writeface on 10 Jun 2010, 05:10 pm
You might check here...

http://www.canadacd.ca/en/browse/?productNumber=FACD006&browse=1&page=1



Another...Not currently in store....allow 1 to 2 weeks to ship....

http://www.gellatlymusic.com/webstore/view.php?iid=8530

Thank you. I ordered it from Canada CD.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: lonewolfny42 on 11 Jun 2010, 06:15 am
Your welcome Marty and writeface  ...glad I could help. :thumb:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Nuance on 14 Jun 2010, 12:33 am
Gents,

I am looking for very well recorded piano pieces.  I am talking bring you to your knees, make you weep like a little girl because its so beautiful piano pieces.  Any recommendations?

Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Atlplasma on 14 Jun 2010, 12:45 am
I'm very fond of this cd of Beethoven Sonatas by Emil Gilels:

http://www.amazon.com/Beethoven-Path%C3%A9tique-Mondschein-Ludwig-van/dp/B000001G4E/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1276476138&sr=8-4

It is a very intimate recording, at least to my ears.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Napalm on 14 Jun 2010, 12:58 am
Gents,

I am looking for very well recorded piano pieces.  I am talking bring you to your knees, make you weep like a little girl because its so beautiful piano pieces.  Any recommendations?

2 great performances of Chopin's Nocturnes:

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=31562)

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=31563)

Nap.  :thumb:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Nuance on 15 Jun 2010, 02:08 pm
Great - thank you both.  Keep 'em coming folks!
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 15 Jun 2010, 11:48 pm
Ok Nuance, what are you up to??

Trying to find some really good piano stuff eh...are you trying to convince the wife you need to upgrade to a pair of
HT2 TL's!!  :D

A Hundred Miles or More: A Collection

http://www.amazon.com/Hundred-Miles-More-Collection/dp/B000ND91SG/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1274275563&sr=8-1

Its quite a collection of wonderful sounds...Allisons voice is really a gift and I never get tired of listening to it.

The piano opening on Get Me Through December is wonderful...

Alex

Note: Dave Grusin's Mountain Dance is pretty good, I will go back and re-listen..
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Nuance on 19 Jun 2010, 04:07 am
Ok Nuance, what are you up to??

Trying to find some really good piano stuff eh...are you trying to convince the wife you need to upgrade to a pair of
HT2 TL's!!  :D

Maybe.  :oops: :lol:

Thanks for the recommendations, Alex.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 19 Jun 2010, 05:30 pm
Darol Anger's "Heritage"

http://www.amazon.com/Heritage-Darol-Anger/dp/B0007IO6EQ/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1276968424&sr=1-1

Another great recommendation from Chris!  8)

Wonderful sounds, very well recorded...good ole American Roots music with vocalists  that include: Mary- Chapin Carpenter, John Gorka, Willie Nelson, Tim O'Brien, Jane Siberry, Mavis Staples and Dar Williams

May not be everyones cup of tea, but several cuts could easily be on Jim Salk's demo cds for sure

All the Best and thanks again Mr. "Wolf"

Alex
 :eyebrows:

Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: lonewolfny42 on 22 Jun 2010, 05:43 am
Alex....

Darol Anger's "Heritage"

AC member Deadfish/Bill turned me on to that Cd....it is very good...and as noted....many good players. Enjoy.... :thumb:

                   Chris
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 24 Jun 2010, 10:04 pm
Nuance,

This is for YOU.

I forgot all about it, its a piano classic.

George Winston's 'December'

http://www.amazon.com/December-George-Winston/dp/B000000NFI/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1277416713&sr=1-2-spell

There is a 20th anniversary enhanced edition as well, mine is the original...can be had for 1 cent + shipping!

Just finished listening to it, quite loud on the volume on my Onkyp 805.
Its recorded at a low level, but crank it up...no hiss etc.

If you have the patience and want to hear GREAT piano solos, with rich harmonics and tonal quality to die for...this will make a grown man cry.

Yes its moody, but its real awesome.

Joy is wonderful as well as the Variations on the Kanon by Pachelbel ....my 2 favorites.

Real piano, played wonderfully....just piano nothing else.!!

Enjoy
Alex
 :eyebrows:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 24 Jun 2010, 10:12 pm
Smooth Jazz, but a really timeless classic from the great Lee Ritenour:

"Color Rit"

http://www.amazon.com/Color-Rit-Lee-Ritenour/dp/B0000001QN/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1277417177&sr=1-1

Another 20+ yr old recording.

Awesome recording from the past, upbeat, staccato like guitar riffs, play it loud and listen to all the wonderful musical things going on!!

This is a demo cd for sure!

Enjoy
Alex
All the Best
 :eyebrows:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 6 Jul 2010, 06:15 pm
Hello All!

Looking  for some older stuff that is really good as far as recording quality etc.

In particular Judy Collins?

Anyone have any of her CD's that are 'demo' quality??

All the best
Alex
 :eyebrows:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Atlplasma on 6 Jul 2010, 07:28 pm
Not Judy, but I really like this remastered recording of Joan Baez singing folk tunes.

http://www.amazon.com/Joan-Baez/dp/B00005MKGM/ref=sr_1_6?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1278444475&sr=1-6
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 7 Jul 2010, 12:36 am
Thanks Atlpasma!

I will look into this one for sure.

There are several remastered of Judy Collins but I hope someone will cahime in and give us a clue as to their recording quality.

Alex
 :D
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 7 Jul 2010, 02:43 am
HAITIMAN,

Just ordered the Julie London tribute!

Thanks
Alex
 :eyebrows:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 10 Jul 2010, 01:57 am
Just listened to : Jake Shimabukuro's Gently Weeps!!!

http://www.amazon.com/Gently-Weeps-Jake-Shimabukuro/dp/B000HIP44M/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1278726754&sr=8-1-spell

This is a 5 star CD, Demo Quality extrordinaire!!

One of the great jazz/rock ukulele players ever!! Its so nice and surprising. Slow, fast, wham, bang. excellent quality...WONDERFUL recording.

Its a must have for your DEMO collection!

All the best

Alex
 :eyebrows:

Thanks Chris!!
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: HAITIMAN on 10 Jul 2010, 02:28 am
HAITIMAN,

Just ordered the Julie London tribute!

Thanks
Alex
 :eyebrows:
AMan!

What do you think of "Route 66"?
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 10 Jul 2010, 01:45 pm
HAITMAN,

It hasnt arrived yet, but I will definitely let you know!!

Smiling!

Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: lonewolfny42 on 10 Jul 2010, 04:20 pm
Alex....

Here's Jake Shimabukuro live.... :thumb:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=puSkP3uym5k
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 10 Jul 2010, 05:59 pm
Chris this Jake guy is really TALENTED....WOW!

So young and so good...I ordered his live CD yesterday.

I have no earthly idea how people like this can play so well...its really like magic!!

Glad we got to hear and see this one for sure!!

All the best
Alex
 :eyebrows: :eyebrows: :eyebrows:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 11 Jul 2010, 02:41 am
Hi,

Been a really great day for listening. I have a potential Salk Owner stop by from Northern Virginia to listen to the SalkSongtowers...We went thru one of Jims demo discs, RMAF 2006 and BobM's demo disk....and a few others, Truly a great set of music, many reported throughout this thread.

But I just got done listening to Diana Krall's "All For You" and it was heavenly....another sonic treat...for sure.

http://www.amazon.com/All-You-Dedication-King-Cole/dp/B000003N89/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1278870823&sr=8-1

Hope all is well in the world with you all!

All the best
Alex

 :eyebrows:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: taoggniklat on 15 Jul 2010, 04:54 am
Just listened to : Jake Shimabukuro's Gently Weeps!!!

http://www.amazon.com/Gently-Weeps-Jake-Shimabukuro/dp/B000HIP44M/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1278726754&sr=8-1-spell

This is a 5 star CD, Demo Quality extrordinaire!!

One of the great jazz/rock ukulele players ever!! Its so nice and surprising. Slow, fast, wham, bang. excellent quality...WONDERFUL recording.

Its a must have for your DEMO collection!

All the best

Alex
 :eyebrows:

Thanks Chris!!

Thanks for the suggestion. Ordered myself one!
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: nyc_paramedic on 20 Jul 2010, 09:10 pm
Artist: Nina Nastasia

Album: Dogs

Engineer: Steve Albini

From Wikipedia:

Dogs is the first album by American singer-songwriter Nina Nastasia. It was originally released in 2000 by Socialist Records and re-released in 2004 by Touch and Go Records.

John Peel has described the album as "astonishing".


Also,

Engineer Steve Albini has described it as one of the albums he is the most proud of, as well as one of his personal favorites:

    "In the process of making a record, you hear it so many times that the charms of even the best of them can wear off through over-exposure. On rare occasions, records I've worked on have withstood this scrutiny and ended up being personal favorites. Nina Nastasia's 'Dogs' is a record so simultaneously unassuming and grandiose that I can't really describe it, except in terms that would make it (and me) sound silly. Of the couple thousand records I've been involved with, this is one of my favourites, and one that I'm proud to be associated with."



My favorites are A Love Song and Smiley

The kick drum and musical saw on  A Love Song make for some serious goosebump music listening.



(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=32963)

Amazon link: http://www.amazon.com/DOGS-Vinyl-NINA-NASTASIA/dp/B00023B1HG/ref=sr_1_12?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1279660113&sr=8-12



Enjoy.

P.S. If this CD tickles your fancy then please check out her other album, The Blackened Air, also engineered by Steve Albini.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Nuance on 21 Jul 2010, 02:41 am
Nuance,

This is for YOU.

I forgot all about it, its a piano classic.

George Winston's 'December'

http://www.amazon.com/December-George-Winston/dp/B000000NFI/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1277416713&sr=1-2-spell

There is a 20th anniversary enhanced edition as well, mine is the original...can be had for 1 cent + shipping!

Just finished listening to it, quite loud on the volume on my Onkyp 805.
Its recorded at a low level, but crank it up...no hiss etc.

If you have the patience and want to hear GREAT piano solos, with rich harmonics and tonal quality to die for...this will make a grown man cry.

Yes its moody, but its real awesome.

Joy is wonderful as well as the Variations on the Kanon by Pachelbel ....my 2 favorites.

Real piano, played wonderfully....just piano nothing else.!!

Enjoy
Alex
 :eyebrows:


Booya - thank you!
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Art_Chicago on 21 Jul 2010, 02:50 am
Artist: Nina Nastasia

Album: Dogs

Engineer: Steve Albini

From Wikipedia:

Dogs is the first album by American singer-songwriter Nina Nastasia. It was originally released in 2000 by Socialist Records and re-released in 2004 by Touch and Go Records.

John Peel has described the album as "astonishing".


Also,

Engineer Steve Albini has described it as one of the albums he is the most proud of, as well as one of his personal favorites:

    "In the process of making a record, you hear it so many times that the charms of even the best of them can wear off through over-exposure. On rare occasions, records I've worked on have withstood this scrutiny and ended up being personal favorites. Nina Nastasia's 'Dogs' is a record so simultaneously unassuming and grandiose that I can't really describe it, except in terms that would make it (and me) sound silly. Of the couple thousand records I've been involved with, this is one of my favourites, and one that I'm proud to be associated with."



My favorites are A Love Song and Smiley

The kick drum and musical saw on  A Love Song make for some serious goosebump music listening.



(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=32963)

Amazon link: http://www.amazon.com/DOGS-Vinyl-NINA-NASTASIA/dp/B00023B1HG/ref=sr_1_12?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1279660113&sr=8-12



Enjoy.

P.S. If this CD tickles your fancy then please check out her other album, The Blackened Air, also engineered by Steve Albini.

maan, you sound convincing! just ordered the cd from amazon!  :thumb:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 21 Jul 2010, 12:59 pm
Only $4.24 at the A!

Dogs that is..

Alex
 :eyebrows:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: nyc_paramedic on 21 Jul 2010, 01:26 pm
maan, you sound convincing! just ordered the cd from amazon!  :thumb:

Thanks. Let us know how you like it.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 22 Jul 2010, 02:09 am
I posted my experience with Jake Shimabukuro a few pages back.

I was so enthralled with his brilliant talent making a ukulele sing like a magic instrument.

Well I got the Live CD and its nothing short of brilliant and very, very well recorded.

The prelude to Lets Dance is just the best there is. Period.
Go get it and be prepared to be amazed!

http://www.amazon.com/Live-Jake-Shimabukuro/dp/B001TD1XVC/ref=ntt_mus_ep_dpp_2

All the best
Alex

 :eyebrows:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: lonewolfny42 on 22 Jul 2010, 03:27 am
Quote
I was so enthralled with his brilliant talent making a ukulele sing like a magic instrument.

Yes Alex....it's pretty cool...a ukulele.....only guy I knew who played one was Arthur Godfrey (http://www.ukulele.org/?Inductees:2000-2001:Arthur_Godfrey)!!!  :lol:
Jake ROCKS !!!!  :rock:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 22 Jul 2010, 11:37 am
Gee Chris!!

Arthur Godfrey!!

Your showing your age here!!!  :eyebrows:

.....and I know him too!!

Time moves on...

Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 24 Jul 2010, 01:45 am
Ctouhey!

I just listened to the Walter Hyatt CD, KING TEARS.

I cant thank you enough for this recommendation. It is superb!

I sometimes just skip around on a new cd previewing, but I listened to the entire CD
start to finish it was that good.

Its so sad to learn that this talented person is no longer with us in this world.
He certaintly had a great voice and talent.

I got some new hardware and it was fun to listen to this new selection on the new preamp and amp..

Get it while you can!

http://www.amazon.com/King-Tears-Walter-Hyatt/dp/B000002P4T/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1279935848&sr=1-5

All the best
Alex :eyebrows:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 24 Jul 2010, 01:53 am
HAITIMAN...

I finally got the Doreen Smith Cd "In the Still of the Night A Tribute to Julie London" and yes I listened to "Route 66" ..

And it was really very well done, I listened to it several times....awesome.

This cd is a demo disc for sure...it took a long time to get it from Canada, I called the site and it showed up the next day!!

Thanks much for the recommendation!!
Awesome..

All the best
Alex

 :eyebrows:

http://www.fidelioaudio.com/prod/production_show.php?id=12
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: martyo on 24 Jul 2010, 04:22 pm
First heard a cut on WDCB our local jazz+ station and missed who the artists were. Last week they were in the studio. Very good recording and excellent music. A few of the cuts will be demos with that UltraValve/Insight/Songtower set IMO since they are over here. :eyebrows: 8)
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=33080)
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: ctouhey on 24 Jul 2010, 04:36 pm
Ctouhey!

I just listened to the Walter Hyatt CD, KING TEARS.

I cant thank you enough for this recommendation. It is superb!

I sometimes just skip around on a new cd previewing, but I listened to the entire CD
start to finish it was that good.

Its so sad to learn that this talented person is no longer with us in this world.
He certaintly had a great voice and talent.

I got some new hardware and it was fun to listen to this new selection on the new preamp and amp..

Get it while you can!

http://www.amazon.com/King-Tears-Walter-Hyatt/dp/B000002P4T/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1279935848&sr=1-5

All the best
Alex :eyebrows:

Glad you enjoyed it, Alex!

I saw Walter with the late Champ Hood at the Mucky Duck here in Houston not long before the accident.  The performance was simply stunning and the crowd was absolutely silent during the songs.

After the crash, there was a sold-out tribute/fund-raiser for his family held in Austin, and I went up there for the show with Rusty and Teresa (who own the Mucky Duck).  There were some incredible performances and very moving tributes.

Chris
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: HAITIMAN on 24 Jul 2010, 05:16 pm
HAITIMAN...

I finally got the Doreen Smith Cd "In the Still of the Night A Tribute to Julie London" and yes I listened to "Route 66" ..

And it was really very well done, I listened to it several times....awesome.

This cd is a demo disc for sure...it took a long time to get it from Canada, I called the site and it showed up the next day!!

Thanks much for the recommendation!!
Awesome..

All the best
Alex

 :eyebrows:

http://www.fidelioaudio.com/prod/production_show.php?id=12
Thanks. It has a unique ambience, for sure. Very live.

Best,
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Art_Chicago on 27 Jul 2010, 01:17 am
Thanks. Let us know how you like it.
Man, it is a great CD all around. Better than Norah in any way! the sq is great
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Art_Chicago on 27 Jul 2010, 01:21 am
First heard a cut on WDCB our local jazz+ station and missed who the artists were. Last week they were in the studio. Very good recording and excellent music. A few of the cuts will be demos with that UltraValve/Insight/Songtower set IMO since they are over here. :eyebrows: 8)
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=33080)

Martyo,
I saw them last August at the College of Dupage Jazz Fest and bought the CD right away. I agree about the sound quality and the music. I think even lonewolfy liked it  :D
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Ryanz on 27 Jul 2010, 03:17 am

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=31493)

Fantastic recording!
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Ryanz on 27 Jul 2010, 03:28 am
Gents,

I am looking for very well recorded piano pieces.  I am talking bring you to your knees, make you weep like a little girl because its so beautiful piano pieces.  Any recommendations?

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=33207)



Seriously. I bought this based off Naps recommendation, I was blown away! Check it out, it's exactly what you're looking for. Thanks again Nap. I listen to it daily.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: lonewolfny42 on 27 Jul 2010, 05:05 am
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=33207)



Seriously. I bought this based off Naps recommendation, I was blown away! Check it out, it's exactly what you're looking for. Thanks again Nap. I listen to it daily.

Link.... (http://www.amazon.com/Chopin-Nocturnes-Frederic/dp/B0013816GA/ref=sr_1_fkmr0_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1280206768&sr=1-3-fkmr0)  :thumb:


(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51PyKg%2BPZqL._SS500_.jpg)
Quote
Martyo,
I saw them last August at the College of Dupage Jazz Fest and bought the CD right away. I agree about the sound quality and the music. I think even lonewolfy liked it

I did....good stuff.... :thumb:

Link.... (http://www.amazon.com/Andreas-Kapsalis-Goran-Ivanovic-Guitar/dp/B001UXJKHK/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1280206905&sr=1-1)
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: nyc_paramedic on 27 Jul 2010, 10:55 pm
Man, it is a great CD all around. Better than Norah in any way! the sq is great

You want another one? You ever here of Eleni Mandell? Album is Miracle of Five.

Wikipedia: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eleni_Mandell


(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=33230)


Amazon link: http://www.amazon.com/Miracle-Five-Eleni-Mandell/dp/B000JRYO8S/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1280271086&sr=8-1

You can't go wrong for $1.79 on the A's used market place.

The sound stage stretches from wall to wall on my HT-2 TL's. On the song My Twin, at approximately 2:22, there are two horns that come in. The one to the left, a clarinet IIRC, will make the hairs on thhe back of your neck stand up in attention!

Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Big Red Machine on 27 Jul 2010, 11:10 pm
My latest, HEMI 10, CD:

#CURTRACK 5
#EXTM3U
#EXTINF:279,Sadhana
G:\Music\Sounds of Wood & Steel 10 Steve Stevens Sadhana.flac
#EXTINF:297,Sweet In The Mornin' (Voicestra)
G:\Music\Bobby McFerrin Medicine Music 06.Sweet In The Mornin' (Voicestra).flac
#EXTINF:248,Bad Man Walking
G:\Music\Gov't Mule Deja Voodoo 01.Bad Man Walking.flac
#EXTINF:240,Smile
G:\Music\Marilyn Scott Nightcap 02.Smile.flac
#EXTINF:152,I try
G:\Music\Deeper than gravity Ben Taylor 02 I try.flac
#EXTINF:170,There'll Come A Time
G:\Music\The Royal Garden Trio The Royal Garden Trio 01.There'll Come A Time.flac
#EXTINF:243,Lennon-McCartney - Eleanor Rigby
G:\Music\Joshua Bell At Home With Friends 09 Lennon-McCartney - Eleanor Rigby.flac
#EXTINF:404,Woosi
G:\Music\Baka Beyond The Meeting Pool 01 Woosi.flac
#EXTINF:313,Don't Stop The Music [Live From The Oak Room]
G:\Music\Jamie Cullum The Pursuit [Deluxe Edition] 16.Don't Stop The Music [Live From The Oak Room].flac
#EXTINF:328,Dirt
G:\Music\Penguin Cafe Orchestra When in Rome... 15 Dirt.flac
#EXTINF:287,Steady On
G:\Music\Point of Grace Steady On... 01 Steady On.flac
#EXTINF:257,Moon Rivers and Such
G:\Music\Kristina Train Spilt Milk 07 Moon Rivers and Such.flac
#EXTINF:203,Reunion
G:\Music\Jim Brock PASAJES 09 Reunion.flac
#EXTINF:254,I'm Yours
G:\Music\The Script The Script 10 I'm Yours.flac
#EXTINF:208,Free To Be Me
G:\Music\Francesca Battistelli My Paper Heart 01 Free To Be Me.flac
#EXTINF:279,Sometime Ago
G:\Music\Bill Evans You Must Believe In Spring 06.Sometime Ago.flac
#EXTINF:181,On A Slow Boat To China
G:\Music\The Royal Garden Trio The Royal Garden Trio 03.On A Slow Boat To China.flac
#EXTINF:188,The 23rd Psalm
G:\Music\Bobby McFerrin Medicine Music 12.The 23rd Psalm.flac
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 29 Jul 2010, 01:34 am
nyc_paramedic!

Got Dogs today and your right the kick drum gave me goosebumps!!

I listened to it with thru my new Ultravalve amp, preamp with some new Blue Jeans Cables LC1's and the experience was absolutely marvelous...such a nice fresh voice!

Thank you for the recommendation!

Alex
 :eyebrows:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Art_Chicago on 29 Jul 2010, 01:37 am
You want another one? You ever here of Eleni Mandell? Album is Miracle of Five.

Wikipedia: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eleni_Mandell


(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=33230)


Amazon link: http://www.amazon.com/Miracle-Five-Eleni-Mandell/dp/B000JRYO8S/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1280271086&sr=8-1

You can't go wrong for $1.79 on the A's used market place.

The sound stage stretches from wall to wall on my HT-2 TL's. On the song My Twin, at approximately 2:22, there are two horns that come in. The one to the left, a clarinet IIRC, will make the hairs on thhe back of your neck stand up in attention!

ordered ... awaiting
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: lonewolfny42 on 30 Jul 2010, 05:29 am
From Russia with love.....Two Siberians - "Out of Nowhere".... :guitar:

(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/61DGNJWRX9L._SS500_.jpg)

I've had this awhile....came out in 2005....good guitar work....good variety of tunes.
Electric guitarist Yuri Matveyev and electric violinist Artyom Yakushenko are virtuosos, and their music-a singular hybrid of rock, folk and jazz propelled by a Russian ethnic pulse-is unlike anything out there.Yes, it’s instrumental music (electric violin and electric guitar), but do not be fooled. Think infectious melodies with burning virtuosic displays. Think impassioned whispers and fiery bursts with a propulsive ethnic pulse. Think world pop instrumental. Or just consider the opinion of Maty Fernandez of MTV: “These two guys do what it takes Dave Matthews five guys to do.”

Check it out.... :thumb:

http://www.amazon.com/Out-Nowhere-Two-Siberians/dp/B0007D4MKE/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1280466770&sr=1-1

Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 30 Jul 2010, 11:58 am
Thanks Chris, on order, one of those 1 cent used deals or $1.40 new...life is good!

Alex
 :D
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Art_Chicago on 31 Jul 2010, 02:04 pm
From Russia with love.....Two Siberians - "Out of Nowhere".... :guitar:

(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/61DGNJWRX9L._SS500_.jpg)

I've had this awhile....came out in 2005....good guitar work....good variety of tunes.
Electric guitarist Yuri Matveyev and electric violinist Artyom Yakushenko are virtuosos, and their music-a singular hybrid of rock, folk and jazz propelled by a Russian ethnic pulse-is unlike anything out there.Yes, it’s instrumental music (electric violin and electric guitar), but do not be fooled. Think infectious melodies with burning virtuosic displays. Think impassioned whispers and fiery bursts with a propulsive ethnic pulse. Think world pop instrumental. Or just consider the opinion of Maty Fernandez of MTV: “These two guys do what it takes Dave Matthews five guys to do.”

Check it out.... :thumb:

http://www.amazon.com/Out-Nowhere-Two-Siberians/dp/B0007D4MKE/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1280466770&sr=1-1

It is a good one, I have been enjoying it for several years now. Lots of russian folk tunes that are tastefully arranged into a world-jazz form  :thumb:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 2 Aug 2010, 12:55 am
Just finished another wonderful moody listening session...I really liked the Walter Hyatt CD that was recommended awhile back and I got his: Some Unfinished Business:
http://www.amazon.com/Some-Unfinished-Business-Walter-Hyatt/dp/B001231472/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1280710169&sr=1-1

I wouldnt call this one a Demo CD, but if you like Walter Hyatt its a good listen.

Also Walter Hyatts, Music Town:
http://www.amazon.com/Music-Town-Walter-Hyatt/dp/B000000EWV/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1280710169&sr=1-3

This one is very well recorded and its real county like and sounds wonderful.
King Tears still is my favorite but I enjoyed these as well.

Finally we got out an oldie but a goodie.
Larry Carltons, Alone-But Never Alone
http://www.amazon.com/Alone-But-Never-Larry-Carlton/dp/B000002O2I/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1280709733&sr=1-1

This is a superb cd that is from 1986 genre, very well rercorded, full on ambiance and all those really neat little things, shimmering in the background. Wonderful acoustic guitar. Larry at his finest. 5 Star. Demo Quality.

I highly recommend this Carlton CD... Its only .99 cents at the A!!! What have you got to loose!!

All the best
Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: nyc_paramedic on 2 Aug 2010, 02:25 am
nyc_paramedic!

Got Dogs today and your right the kick drum gave me goosebumps!!

I listened to it with thru my new Ultravalve amp, preamp with some new Blue Jeans Cables LC1's and the experience was absolutely marvelous...such a nice fresh voice!

Thank you for the recommendation!

I'm glad you liked it. You should also try these girls on for size: The Ditty Bops.

From Wikipedia:http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Ditty_Bops

The Ditty Bops is an American band from Los Angeles, California. Though previously with Warner Brothers, they now self-produce. They are noted for their tight vocal harmonies and playful style. They are headed by Abby DeWald (vocals and acoustic guitar) and Amanda Barrett (vocals, mandolin and dulcimer). Their music is reminiscent of such artists as Joni Mitchell and Simon and Garfunkel, but incorporates a variety of musical styles such as folk, bluegrass, blues, western swing, ragtime and musical theater. Their live shows are often very interactive, and have different themes and theatrical elements complete with props, costumes, skits, and amusing slide shows.

This is the cover of their first album...

(http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/9/97/Dittybopscover.jpg)


At Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Ditty-Bops/dp/B00063MCKW/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1280715747&sr=8-1-spell

The sonics are wonderful. The voices are hair-raising in-your-room. The bass notes are deep, tight (listen to the opening notes of Wake Up), and crisp.

Let us know what you think.

Nick
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: ctouhey on 2 Aug 2010, 03:30 am
That made me think of Manhattan Transfer.  Don't know if anyone has sampled them on the Salks yet.  I only have vinyl and don't have that set up to play (need to repair my old belt drive B&O).  If anyone has sampled them recently (I listend a lot in the 80s), I'd like to know how they sound now.

Chris
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Art_Chicago on 4 Aug 2010, 12:01 am
From Russia with love.....Two Siberians - "Out of Nowhere".... :guitar:

(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/61DGNJWRX9L._SS500_.jpg)

I've had this awhile....came out in 2005....good guitar work....good variety of tunes.
Electric guitarist Yuri Matveyev and electric violinist Artyom Yakushenko are virtuosos, and their music-a singular hybrid of rock, folk and jazz propelled by a Russian ethnic pulse-is unlike anything out there.Yes, it’s instrumental music (electric violin and electric guitar), but do not be fooled. Think infectious melodies with burning virtuosic displays. Think impassioned whispers and fiery bursts with a propulsive ethnic pulse. Think world pop instrumental. Or just consider the opinion of Maty Fernandez of MTV: “These two guys do what it takes Dave Matthews five guys to do.”

Check it out.... :thumb:

http://www.amazon.com/Out-Nowhere-Two-Siberians/dp/B0007D4MKE/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1280466770&sr=1-1

I just gave it another listen, and although I like the energy and music, the recording lacks the transparency and the detail, IMHO. overall pretty good.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Art_Chicago on 7 Aug 2010, 03:27 am
You want another one? You ever here of Eleni Mandell? Album is Miracle of Five.

Wikipedia: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eleni_Mandell


(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=33230)


Amazon link: http://www.amazon.com/Miracle-Five-Eleni-Mandell/dp/B000JRYO8S/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1280271086&sr=8-1

You can't go wrong for $1.79 on the A's used market place.

The sound stage stretches from wall to wall on my HT-2 TL's. On the song My Twin, at approximately 2:22, there are two horns that come in. The one to the left, a clarinet IIRC, will make the hairs on thhe back of your neck stand up in attention!

Hey nyc_paramedic!
This one is a demo CD. Thanks  :thumb:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 9 Aug 2010, 01:56 am
Hi,

I just listened to a 'Test CD #2' from Salk Sound. The selections are really great but I would like to know if anyone has listened to the entire album the selections come from..

Here we go:

1. Susheela Ramam's Salt Rain CD, Selection was Ganpati.
I have no idea who this is etc?
2. Two Siberian's Out of Nowhere. Selection was On The Tundra..
This one has been recently been selected and is excellent.
3. Helene Gimaud, Great Selection, but I dont know what the CD is or the selection?
4. Vibes by Withdrawn, Selection was Keep on Truckin...Excellent
5. Ann Hampton, Callaway Blues In The Night, Selection was Willow Weep For Me
6. Hope Waits, Hope Waits, Selection was Get Behind The Mule. Excellent
7. Robin McKelle, Modern Antique, Selection was Comes Love. Excellent
8. Grayson Chaps, SOngbones, Selection was Junior & The Old African Queen
9. Ani DiFranco, Dilate, Selection was Amazing Grace.
10. Nordic Sound sampler 2007, Selection was Ensembleinmortal Bach
11. Al Di Meola, Kiss My Axe, Selection was Purple Orchids EXCELLENT.
12. Manu Katche, Playground, Selection was Inside Game
13. Melody Gardot, Worrisome Heart, Selection was All That I Need To Love
14. Patrica Barber Live, Selction was Norwegian Wood..THIS IS A 11 out of 10.
Highly Recommended..Audio Orgasm Stuff!!
15. The Tallis Scholars 25 the Anniversary Collection Disc 1

If you have any experience with any of the CDs to comment on the overall sound quality etc please let us know how you like them..

My 2 favorites are the Al Di Meola and Patrica Barber...all I can say is WOW!

All the Best
Alex
 :D :D
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: jaw5279 on 9 Aug 2010, 02:38 am
My 2 favorites are the Al Di Meola and Patrica Barber...all I can say is WOW!


Alex,

If you liked the Al Di Meola cut, I suggest you try his "Elegant Gypsy" album.  It has both electric and acoustic on it and (in my opinion) is very good too. 

John 
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: lonewolfny42 on 9 Aug 2010, 02:44 am
Quote
1. Susheela Ramam's Salt Rain CD, Selection was Ganpati.
I have no idea who this is etc?

Here you go Alex... :thumb:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dy7D_FIkWIY
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Susheela_Raman
http://www.amazon.com/Salt-Rain-Susheela-Raman/dp/B00005BJIG/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1281321877&sr=1-1
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: jsalk on 9 Aug 2010, 11:41 am
Hi,

I just listened to a 'Test CD #2' from Salk Sound. The selections are really great but I would like to know if anyone has listened to the entire album the selections come from..

Looks like a great compilation.  But it wasn't a Salk Sound CD (just so no one requests a copy). 

- Jim
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Big Red Machine on 9 Aug 2010, 12:22 pm
Hi,

I just listened to a 'Test CD #2' from Salk Sound. The selections are really great but I would like to know if anyone has listened to the entire album the selections come from..

Here we go:

1. Susheela Ramam's Salt Rain CD, Selection was Ganpati.
I have no idea who this is etc?
2. Two Siberian's Out of Nowhere. Selection was On The Tundra..
This one has been recently been selected and is excellent.
3. Helene Gimaud, Great Selection, but I dont know what the CD is or the selection?
4. Vibes by Withdrawn, Selection was Keep on Truckin...Excellent
5. Ann Hampton, Callaway Blues In The Night, Selection was Willow Weep For Me
6. Hope Waits, Hope Waits, Selection was Get Behind The Mule. Excellent
7. Robin McKelle, Modern Antique, Selection was Comes Love. Excellent
8. Grayson Chaps, SOngbones, Selection was Junior & The Old African Queen
9. Ani DiFranco, Dilate, Selection was Amazing Grace.
10. Nordic Sound sampler 2007, Selection was Ensembleinmortal Bach
11. Al Di Meola, Kiss My Axe, Selection was Purple Orchids EXCELLENT.
12. Manu Katche, Playground, Selection was Inside Game
13. Melody Gardot, Worrisome Heart, Selection was All That I Need To Love
14. Patrica Barber Live, Selction was Norwegian Wood..THIS IS A 11 out of 10.
Highly Recommended..Audio Orgasm Stuff!!
15. The Tallis Scholars 25 the Anniversary Collection Disc 1

If you have any experience with any of the CDs to comment on the overall sound quality etc please let us know how you like them..

My 2 favorites are the Al Di Meola and Patrica Barber...all I can say is WOW!

All the Best
Alex
 :D :D

I created that collection and it is on my SB Playlists.  Post 933 is my latest CD.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 9 Aug 2010, 12:34 pm
Thanks Red, and Jim....The CD had a label on it "Test CD #2 Salk" so I just assumed it was from Jim.
np...Its a really good compilation.

Alex
 :)
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 17 Aug 2010, 12:54 am
Sitting here listening to FourPlay's "In Between The Sheets" Wondeful recording and Larry Carlton, Bob James, Harvey Mason and Nathan East are just marvelous together, professional musicans in the groove and play so nice!!!!
 :D :D
Wonderous indeed!!

http://www.amazon.com/Between-Sheets-Fourplay/dp/B000002MLC/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1282006362&sr=1-4



Go get it!

All the best
Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Toka on 17 Aug 2010, 03:30 am
Alex,

If you liked the Al Di Meola cut, I suggest you try his "Elegant Gypsy" album.  It has both electric and acoustic on it and (in my opinion) is very good too. 

Yep! Can't go wrong with Al.  8)
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: eclein on 17 Aug 2010, 06:28 am
Roland Olazabel (Tears For Fears)- "Tomcats Outside Screaming"......a fantastic recording and wonderful music, every track is great!!
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 17 Aug 2010, 05:04 pm
Toka,

Thanks for the Al Di Meola recommendation, I do have the Kiss My Axe selection coming, but I will check out the Elegant Gypsy selection for sure!

eclien thanks for the Tears For Fears recommendation I will sample some of the cuts and let you know how it plays for me!! Cool!!

All the best
Alex

NOTE: A FREE SALK HAT for the 1000th post in this thread and maybe one or two more !!!
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: cacophony777 on 17 Aug 2010, 07:59 pm
Here's one of my favorite demo CDs:

Bill Evans - Waltz for Debby (Sunday at the Village Vanguard is also really good)

I have the SACD version, though the regular CD versions are great as well, especially the XRCD version.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Kinger on 17 Aug 2010, 08:35 pm
Thanks for the Fourplay recommendation Alex.  Sounds like what I've been looking for while doing some reading in the evenings or something to just completely relax to after a stressful day.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 17 Aug 2010, 09:43 pm
Kinger,

I used to listen to a lot of the ethereal type of new age jazz when i had a set of maggies to make those 6 ft long ribbons play !!!

The Rippingtons come to mind and thats when I started discovering Lee Ritenour, Larry Carlton, Albert Lee and lots of other oldies now but still goodies.

Its amazing that these guys are still playing and playing their hearts out!

I dont have the Energy cd yet, but its also was a recommendation several weeks back.


Enjoy!
Alex
 :D
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: eclein on 17 Aug 2010, 10:51 pm
+1 Fourplay, any of them, they all sound excellent.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: RadioWonder on 18 Aug 2010, 01:32 am
Yes,thanks... :D
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: jimdgoulding on 18 Aug 2010, 01:50 am
Think everybody ought to have a listen to Sound Roots by Andy McKee and NEXT on Mapleshade.  Uncompressed and real live sounding near the stage avant/funk/jazz.  Er, when you can listen unmistakenly loud, that is.  Unbridled instrumental extention, dynamics and air.  I'm kinda partial to track 2.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: RadioWonder on 18 Aug 2010, 02:09 am
My current favorite acoustic Jazz music... Recorded by Cookie Marenco of Blue Coast Records.

"There's nowhere to hide. Samsara is reminiscent of ECM label jazz recordings - spacious, warm, and intensely honest. A departure from his two previous albums - critically acclaimed Come To Me and Reincarnation, fully produced electric world jazz albums with turntablists, spoken word, strings, horns and lots of studio know-how behind the leader's acoustic guitar. Switching gears on Samsara, Gregory James has come back to the basics with a quartet and very little, if any, studio effects. Raw tracks and real playing. Captured with beautiful 'invisible' production by Cookie Marenco's OTR Studios in the Bay Area."

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0014FIYW6/ref=oss_product (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0014FIYW6/ref=oss_product)
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: jimdgoulding on 18 Aug 2010, 02:23 am
Your link is to nice stuff.  And I've been hearing nice things about the Rogue Records label.  Thanks.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: vintagebob on 18 Aug 2010, 02:49 pm
I didn't see Houston Person, "The Party" on the list.  Track #2, "Blue Velvet", might be a great demo track for the SoundScapes.  The organ hits some very low notes.

http://www.amazon.com/Party-Houston-Person/dp/B000008BZJ/ref=ntt_mus_ep_dpi_lnk
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 19 Aug 2010, 01:31 pm
Al Di Meola's 'Kiss My Axe"
Its been mentioned in the thread before, I just got my copy and was listening to it last night...

Track #2, The Embrace:
It starts off smooth, nothing to write home about then there is a Flim and the BB's moment, several of them where the Drum Whacks are VIOLENT, the SongTowers performed admirably...this is a real suprise 1:48 into this track they start and 2:32 into it again and again...

The Flim and the BB's comment is about the low volume soft passages etc then WHACK a drum hit that makes your eyes pop out...

In this track the first one really catches you 'ear' then the follow-on whancks are at a bit different amplitude, but some are really horrific!! (in a good way..)

Be careful!!....I sent Jim a note and he said the SS's really did well with this!!

All the best

Alex

 :)

Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: lonewolfny42 on 21 Aug 2010, 04:40 am
Alex....

One for the Jazz lovers....you have a copy.... :wink:

Mike Garson - "Oxnard Sessions, Vol.2" (http://www.amazon.com/Oxnard-Sessions-Vol-2/dp/B00000159C)

(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51OeNwlmlFL._SL500_AA300_.jpg)

Great album....well recorded...good tunes....good players....Mike Garson, piano; Eric Marienthal, alto & soprano sax; Brian Bromberg, bass; Ralph Humphry, Bill Mintz, drums, Keith Johnson, eng. ...and a good label ....Reference Recordings.

It was released in 1992. It was later re-released in 2008 by Allegro records as the album 'Jazzhat'

A review....http://www.stereophile.com/recordingofthemonth/693rotm/

I enjoy this Vol. 2 over Vol. 1 ....but both are really good....and worth owning.

Happy listening.... :thumb:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: jsalk on 21 Aug 2010, 12:13 pm
Don't know if this CD was mentioned yet, but I just got it yesterday.

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=34340)


Chet Atkins said Australian-born guitarist Tommy Emmanuel was the greatest finger picker in the world today.  Before he died, Les Paul said he was still learning from Tommy.  Eric Clapton said he was the greatest guitar player he had ever seen.

This is a live double CD with Tommy playing solo (with his bass player "Tom Thumb").  No overdubs, no re-takes, this guy is simply amazing.  If you want to hear a guitar player without equal, check it out.

http://www.amazon.com/Liveone-Tommy-Emmanuel/dp/B000K7UFV2/ref=dp_return_2?ie=UTF8&n=5174&s=music (http://www.amazon.com/Liveone-Tommy-Emmanuel/dp/B000K7UFV2/ref=dp_return_2?ie=UTF8&n=5174&s=music)

- Jim
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 22 Aug 2010, 01:50 am
I really like Chet Atkins and if Chet say this guy is good, well...all I can say its on its way!

Look forward to listening to it!!

Thanks for the recommendation Jim.


Chris,

Yes the Oxnard Sessions is exceptional, and I do appreciate my copy!!

All the best
Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: lonewolfny42 on 22 Aug 2010, 03:44 am
You can't "go wrong" with Tommy Emmanual....a very talented guitarist....almost every Cd of his is golden...as are his videos.

http://www.youtube.com/user/euphemistic?blend=1&ob=4



Speaking of Chet Atkins....Tommy and Chet together....good stuff.... :thumb: :guitar:

(http://www.tradebit.com/usr/mp3-album/pub/9002/514/514518/51451897.jpg)

Chet Atkins with Tommy Emmanuel - "The Day Finger Pickers Took Over the World" (http://www.amazon.com/Finger-Pickers-Took-Over-World/dp/B0012GMVCG/ref=ntt_mus_ep_dpp_4)


**** Jim...track 6 "Ode to Mel Bay"....remember those guitar music books.... :lol:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: decal on 22 Aug 2010, 04:36 am
My demo CD I use has the following cuts......
1.Santana "Singing Winds,Crying Beasts/Black Magic Woman"
2.Willie Nelson "Stardust"
3.Gov't Mule "Thorazine Shuffle"
4.Robin Trower "Bridge Of Sighs"
5.Beatles "Here Comes The Sun"
6.Rolling Stones "Monkey Man"
7.Rickie Lee Jones "Up From The Skies"
8.Widespread Panic "Second Skin"
9.Johnny Cash "Hurt"
10.Allman Brothers "Jessica"
11.Parliment "Mothership Connection(Star Child)"
12.Steely Dan "Deacon Blues"
13.The Band "Ophelia"
14.Z.Z. Top "Sheik"
15.Koko Taylor "Wang Dang Doodle"
Nothing out of the ordinary,just some tunes I really like and know really well.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 22 Aug 2010, 12:53 pm
Oh boy Chet Atkins and Tommy Emmananual! So cool!!!

decal..thanks for your track listing on your demo cd...the Santana cut goes back a long way and brings back many found memories from my 'stereo' history for sure...

I have NO Willie Neslon cds per say, I think I have a few tracks somewhere with him in a duet or on a demo cd somewhere, I really like his 'cranky' voice, think I will look into this in the near future.

Steely Dan. YES!

Amazing, now I have to go exploring again!!

All the best
Alex
 :D :)
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: jsalk on 22 Aug 2010, 01:43 pm

**** Jim...track 6 "Ode to Mel Bay"....remember those guitar music books.... :lol:

Yeah...I probably still have a few of them laying around.  Maybe not.  It's been so long now, they have most likely decomposed.

- Jim
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: lonewolfny42 on 23 Aug 2010, 12:41 am
Quote
**** Jim...track 6 "Ode to Mel Bay"....remember those guitar music books.... :lol:

Yeah...I probably still have a few of them laying around.  Maybe not.  It's been so long now, they have most likely decomposed.

- Jim

Interesting video bio....  here.... (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3NO8XEOlLzQ)

He had a great chord book.... :thumb:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Ronm1 on 23 Aug 2010, 12:48 am


I have NO Willie Neslon cds per say, I think I have a few tracks somewhere with him in a duet or on a demo cd somewhere, I really like his 'cranky' voice, think I will look into this in the near future.


Try Milk Cow Blues I've always been partial to the sonics on that one.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 23 Aug 2010, 02:11 am
Chris I went back and listened to the Oxnard Sessions Vol 2 this evening.

I listened to this before I got the new amp and preamp it was good, its now a 10
out of a 10.

Phenomenal!

Nuance was asking me awhile back for piano music that would make you cry...well
its on this disc for sure...

Play it loud these musicans are just perfect!

All the best
Alex

 :D
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: lonewolfny42 on 23 Aug 2010, 02:15 am
 8) Alex...... Mike's version ...."All Blues" ....just sticks in your head....good stuff !!

Glad you like it. :beer:



Let me add another Mike Garson....a more "acoustic jazz" selection.

Quote
This is a mostly straight-ahead set featuring Mike Garson's piano in a variety of settings. He takes "I Should Care" and "My Romance" unaccompanied; duets with the brilliant flutist Jim Walker (his musical partner in Free Flight) on "My One and Only Love"; plays three songs in a trio with bassist Stanley Clarke and drummer Billy Mintz; and leads a quintet comprised of guitarist Peter Sprague, bassist Jim Lacefield, drummer Mintz, and either altoist Gary Herbig or flutist Walker through three of his tricky but likable originals. An excellent all-around set, one of Mike Garson's best. ~ Scott Yanow (All Music)


(http://g-ecx.images-amazon.com/images/G/01/ciu/e1/11/243b224128a0e60ff41d8010.L.jpg)

Mike Garson - "Serendipity" (http://www.amazon.com/Serendipity-Mike-Garson/dp/B000001577/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1282531220&sr=1-4)


More good stuff you will like Alex !!! :beer:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: TJC712 on 23 Aug 2010, 03:54 am
Serendipity has some big time playing on it besides being a Johnson Reference Recording. This is an excellent choice for numerous reasons!
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: johzel on 23 Aug 2010, 01:28 pm

(http://)

Don't know if this CD was mentioned yet or not.  I always play cut #5, "Dances With Wood" when auditioning speakers.  This certainly challenges a speaker's ability to quickly and accurately reproduce the kick bass like lower end.

The Global Drum Project is produced by former Grateful Dead drummer, Mickey Hart, and is an amazing piece of music. 
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: johzel on 23 Aug 2010, 02:40 pm
Thanks to Mr. Salk and a very generous customer in my neck of the woods I'm looking forward to auditioning my very first pair of Salk speakers - the HT2-TL's this Thursday.  While I suspect we'll use the owner's music (including his Salk CD(s)) the following will be in the car with me:

Diana Panton – “If the Moon Turns Green”
Jason Mraz – “We Sing, We Dance, We Steal Things”
The Global Drum Project
Leo Kottke – “6 and 12 String Guitar”
Natalie Cole – “Stardust”
Nils Logren – “Acoustic Live”
Alison Krauss and Union Station – “New Favorite”
Diana Krall – “Love Scenes”
Stevie Wonder – “Songs in the Key of Life”
Michelle Shocked – “Soul of My Soul”
K.D. Lang – “Recollection”
Sarah McLachlan – “Remixed”
Aaron Neville – “Bring in Home – Soul Classics”
Robert Plant/Allison Krauss – “Raising Sand”
Mark Knopfler – “Sailing to Philadelphia”
Yo-Yo Ma – “Classic Yo-Yo”
Melody Gardot – “My One and Only Thrill”
Jorma Kaukonen – “Blue Country Heart”
Michael Buble – “Crazy Love”
George Duke – “Duke”
Bob James and Earl Klugh – “One on One”
Spyro Gyra – “Got The Magie”
Jennifer Warnes – “Famous Blue Raincoat”

Now if this gentleman had a turntable I could take my first ever reference piece of music with me.  For those of you who are old like me this is a LP I used to take with me to shoppes in the early 1970's when I first became interested in audio equipment - wonder whatever happened to good old Gino Vannelli  :scratch::

(http://)
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: newzooreview on 23 Aug 2010, 05:33 pm
I've been meaning to add these for a while, so now that we're pushing for 1000 posts I figured it would be a good time.  :thumb:

The two live concert recordings of David Lindley and Hani Naser are a real treat. They are mainly from high-quality audience tapes or soundboard recordings, and the quality ranges from excellent to very excellent. The music is simply superb--bouyant, lyrical, humorous in parts and dark in others. The bass is excellent and really shows off the clean and articulate mid-bass that my HT1-TLs offer. The subtleties of fingers against guitar and sitar (?) are also portrayed very naturally in the recordings and in the Salks.

The first of the set is "Live in Tokyo" and the second "Playing Even Better" It looks like the first one is temporarily out of stock on the David Lindley site, but the second is just as good as the first and a fine starting point.

http://www.davidlindley.com/cgi-bin/dlshop.cgi#


(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=34490)
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: ctouhey on 23 Aug 2010, 06:30 pm
[snip]
The two live concert recordings of David Lindley and Hani Naser are a real treat. [snip]

I saw David and Hani live shortly after this was released:

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=34491)

The CD is pretty good, but nothing compares with the live show...

Chris
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: charmerci on 24 Aug 2010, 06:37 am
If you can put up with a bit of tape hiss - this is an amazing album of older mainstream trio jazz. (Don't be scared off by its older recording date - quality-wise.

Poll Winners 3 - Barney Kessel, Ray Brown, Shelley Manne
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: vintagebob on 27 Aug 2010, 08:16 pm
Following Jim's Tommy Emmanuel selection...

Could anyone recommend one of Martin Taylor's collections (i.e. Demo Quality)?


NOTE:  It looks like "Artistry" is available in SACD.  Maybe I'll give that a try.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: lonewolfny42 on 28 Aug 2010, 05:50 am
Following Jim's Tommy Emmanuel selection...

Could anyone recommend one of Martin Taylor's collections (i.e. Demo Quality)?


NOTE:  It looks like "Artistry" is available in SACD.  Maybe I'll give that a try.

You might try this Cd....Link.... (http://www.allmusic.com/cg/amg.dll?p=amg&sql=10:apfoxq9rldte)

Another guitarist to check out....Bireli Lagrene... (http://www.allmusic.com/cg/amg.dll?p=amg&sql=11:difexqt5ldte)  :wink:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: lonewolfny42 on 30 Aug 2010, 05:16 am
Another nice recording....instrumental....a bit new age....but well recorded on the Tropo label...2006.

Quote
The music that acoustic guitarist Alex De Grassi, electric bassist Michael Manring and tabla player Christopher Garcia perform is often beyond categorization or even simple description. Like Oregon, they are open to a wide variety of idioms, making every sound count and utilizing space quite effectively. The blend between their instruments makes it sound as if they are of one mind, yet their melodic world/folk music is open to spontaneity. In addition to eight group originals (four by Garcia), they perform "The Water Is Wide" and a surprising version of the Rolling Stones' "Paint It Black." De Man Ia  (given its name by taking two or three letters from each of the musicians' last names) is a set of intriguing music that grows in interest with each listen. There is much to discover.

             (http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/31ar8qG5jqL._SL500_AA300_.jpg)

                  Alex De Grassi - "De Man Ia" (http://www.amazon.com/Man-Ia-Alex-Grassi/dp/B000K2V7CI/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1283144624&sr=1-1)
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 31 Aug 2010, 02:29 am
Jim,

Been gone a few days on vacation....got a ear infection in my right ear, getting a little better, I got the Tommy Emmanual Live CD only could listen to the first 2 tracks on CD1 until my ear starting to hurt..

but what I did hear is AMAZING, WOW what a guitar player...marvelous!!

Thanks for this one Jim!

Alex
 :D
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Art_Chicago on 31 Aug 2010, 03:09 am
http://www.crimsonjazztrio.com/

For those who like King Crimson and jazz, these CD's are simply amazing! :thumb:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Art_Chicago on 1 Sep 2010, 01:19 am
http://www.crimsonjazztrio.com/

For those who like King Crimson and jazz, these CD's are simply amazing! :thumb:

well, it sounds even better tonight.

http://www.amazon.com/King-Crimson-Songbook-Jazz-Trio/dp/B000B865DM
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: lonewolfny42 on 4 Sep 2010, 09:09 pm
Do you like vocals....how about dazzling harmonies and multiple progressions....and eight years in the making. :D

This CD has passion, commitment to excellence, and pure musical joy.

How about from a ten-time Grammy winner .... 8)

His name....Bobby McFerrin....

The album....."VOCAbuLarieS" (http://www.amazon.com/VOCAbuLarieS-Bobby-Mcferrin/dp/B00303WR3M/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1283633302&sr=1-1)


(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/6140P81deZL._SS400_.jpg)

More samples... (http://www.deccarecords-us.com/artist/releases/release.aspx?pid=63962&aid=20280)  and    online review... (http://www.audaud.com/article.php?ArticleID=7157)
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: TJC712 on 8 Sep 2010, 11:31 pm
Hey folks... sorry I haven't been contributing much lately... busy fighting my way through this horrible economy of ours. I'm sure you all know what I'm talking about! Anyway, I'm listening to Gary Burton & Friends - Departure. Nice line-up (Burton-vibraphone, John Scofield-guitar, Peter Erskine-drums, Fred Hersch-piano, John Patitucci-bass), nice arrangements of some good tunes, great sound, such a good listen! If you like jazz, its well worth the dime.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: zybar on 9 Sep 2010, 12:11 am
(http://www.indierockfan.net/pics/Boult_ThePlanets.jpg)

Holst's "The Planets" is one of my favorite recordings and I own half a dozen different versions with various conductors, but this hi-rez version is far superior to all of the others I own (including other hi-rez versions).  You don't need to be a classical music fan to appreciate the artistry and beauty of this recording.

Jim, I am 100% confident that this piece would wow your visitors at RMAF.  Best of all, you can download it from High Definition Tape Transfers for only $14.00!! 

George


Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: jimdgoulding on 9 Sep 2010, 01:16 am
Do you like vocals....how about dazzling harmonies and multiple progressions....and eight years in the making. :D

This CD has passion, commitment to excellence, and pure musical joy.

How about from a ten-time Grammy winner .... 8)

His name....Bobby McFerrin....

The album....."VOCAbuLarieS" (http://www.amazon.com/VOCAbuLarieS-Bobby-Mcferrin/dp/B00303WR3M/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1283633302&sr=1-1)


(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/6140P81deZL._SS400_.jpg)

More samples... (http://www.deccarecords-us.com/artist/releases/release.aspx?pid=63962&aid=20280)  and    online review... (http://www.audaud.com/article.php?ArticleID=7157)
Wolfsama-  Damn son, why don't ya tell us how you really feel?  I'm buyin what you're selling, ole bean. 
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 9 Sep 2010, 01:17 am
Hi Guys and Gals!

Been away photographing a wedding in the mountains of North Carolina plus fighting a loss of hearing in my right ear, going to a ENT specialist tomorrow to hopefully get fixed!
Listening to music is one of my greatest pleasures but it has been sidetracked due to this ear infection thing!

Chris thanks for the Vocabularies recommendation! I will have to get a copy of this one for sure.

TJC712, I really understand the fighting your way thru this wonderful economy for sure, I lost my job in April and am now making a whole lot less than I was but I am very thankful to be working...its better than the alternative. Hang in there and thanks for the Gary Burton recommendation.

Zybar! Holst The Planets!! Yes! Its good!


All the best

Alex!!

 :D
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: intamin22 on 9 Sep 2010, 01:24 am

(http://www.pinpointmusic.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/06/the-black-keys-brothers1-300x298.jpg)

Just posted this in the what are you listening to now thread, but it's good quality stuff.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: vintagebob on 9 Sep 2010, 05:10 am
The Martin Taylor "Tapestry" SACD Hybrid turned out to be EXCELLENT.  It is a Linn recording with unreal soundstage.

(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51dGfF%2B2q-L._SS400_.jpg)
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: lonewolfny42 on 9 Sep 2010, 05:40 am
The Martin Taylor "Tapestry" SACD Hybrid turned out to be EXCELLENT.  It is a Linn recording with unreal soundstage.

(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51dGfF%2B2q-L._SS400_.jpg)

Samples... (http://www.amazon.com/gp/recsradio/radio/B0001XQ7VM/ref=pd_krex_listen_dp_img?ie=UTF8&refTagSuffix=dp_img)  :thumb:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Saturn94 on 9 Sep 2010, 03:18 pm
For percussion fans, this recording by Safri Duo sounded really interesting;

http://www.amazon.com/Episode-II-Safri-Duo/dp/B00005KKA5/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1284045360&sr=8-2
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: sarge_in on 13 Sep 2010, 02:34 am
We happened to drive to Santa Barbara yesterday, and as we were roaming the streets there was this band playing some lively music outside Borders. We stopped and started listening - it was Zimbabwean music being played on marimbas and other instruments along with vocals that of course I did not understand. Suffice to say before long the street was packed with people listening to the music and dancing right there on the streets. Ended up buying the CD right away. It's called Mas and the band was called Masanga.

http://www.amazon.com/Mas/dp/B002CC4O5G/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=dmusic&qid=1284344533&sr=8-1
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: jsalk on 13 Sep 2010, 08:54 pm
(http://www.indierockfan.net/pics/Boult_ThePlanets.jpg)

Holst's "The Planets" is one of my favorite recordings and I own half a dozen different versions with various conductors, but this hi-rez version is far superior to all of the others I own (including other hi-rez versions).  You don't need to be a classical music fan to appreciate the artistry and beauty of this recording.

Jim, I am 100% confident that this piece would wow your visitors at RMAF.  Best of all, you can download it from High Definition Tape Transfers for only $14.00!! 

George

George -

Thanks for the tip.  I'll get on it!

- Jim
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: intamin22 on 15 Sep 2010, 01:06 am
(http://www.mp3boo.com/cover-album/mgmt.jpg)

This a good recording with sounds spread out all across the soundstage with lots of spatial cues. It's pretty cool. Songs I particularly enjoy are "Time to Pretend," "Electric Feel," "Kids," and "4th Dimensional Transition."
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: coke on 15 Sep 2010, 01:44 am
I've been enjoying this blu-ray

http://www.amazon.com/Chris-Botti-Boston-Blu-ray/dp/B001R60ESE/ref=sr_1_10?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1284514982&sr=8-10

This song is a lot of fun to listen to, especially at loud volumes  :thumb:  (sounds horrible on youtube though)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jq9D-BtMZgk
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: cacophony777 on 15 Sep 2010, 01:47 am
Here are some of my favorite albums, all of which sound phenomenal.
The Bill Evans I especially like because it's both pleasant background music as well as very interesting/innovative (always discovering new aspects).

Bill Evans - Waltz for Debby
(http://www.sa-cd.net/covers/396.jpg)

Bill Evans - Sunday at the Village Vanguard
(http://www.sa-cd.net/covers/394.jpg)

Dave Brubeck Quartet - Time Out
(http://www.sa-cd.net/covers/1841.jpg)

Janine Jansen - The Four Seasons
(http://www.sa-cd.net/covers/2569.jpg)

Puccini: Madame Butterfly - Leinsdorf
(http://www.sa-cd.net/covers/4016.jpg)

Vivaldi: La Stravaganza - Podger/Arte Dei Suonatori
(http://www.sa-cd.net/covers/336rev1.jpg)
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: eclein on 15 Sep 2010, 01:48 am
This album by Enigma is good for tweaking a system ...

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=35760)
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Big Red Machine on 15 Sep 2010, 01:49 am
Mahler: Symphony No. 3 [Hybrid SACD]
Gustav Mahler, et al

Decent recording.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: noshortcuts on 15 Sep 2010, 02:51 am
Wow! I've followed this thread a bunch but don't see a "search" to make sure these haven't been given before. I hope they have because they are awesome. I hope they haven't, to get you to give them a listen!

Ray Charles Genius Loves Company. Great sound! Vocals to leave you with goose bumps.
Bob Marley, Legend. Fun bass beat, fantastic vocals and percussion, ... great recording quality.
Minnesota Orchestra Showcase, Eiji Oue: Minnesota Orchestra. A little known gem? - I probably learned about it here.
Erykah Badu, Baduizm: Give your system a fun workout! Big bass beat. Fantastic and dynamic female vocals.
Stan Getz, Stan Getz & Oscar Peterson Trio  Wow, wow, wow (for the trio).

I'm pretty sure that all the rest on my list have been listed here.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 15 Sep 2010, 01:44 pm
cacophony777!!

 :banana piano: :beer: :violin: :drums: :guitar: :rock: :bounce: :thankyou: :hyper: :dance: :weights: :jester: :wine:

CONGRATULATIONS FOR BEING THE 1000th POSTER with a great set of recommendations!!

YOU HAVE WON A SALK HAT!!!

Please PM Jim and he will get the SALK HAT to you!!

Thanks to all the people that have over time contributed to this thread!!

Its brought much pleasure to many of us for sure!!

Again Congrats as we climb towards  50,000 views!!

 :banana piano: :beer: :violin: :drums: :guitar: :thankyou: :wine: :jester: :weights: :dance: :hyper:


Note to noshortcuts, there are links on the first page to lists of the many demo cds. its a bit dated and I am working on an update and will post soon. Most of what you listed are in the thread somewhere!! But thanks much anyway!! Keep the coming!

All the best
Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: fishinbob on 15 Sep 2010, 03:38 pm
Mahler: Symphony No. 3 [Hybrid SACD]
Gustav Mahler, et al

Decent recording.

A glowing recommendation no doubt. :wink: Which one?
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: fishinbob on 15 Sep 2010, 03:59 pm
I was thinking about suggesting this in the Blu-ray demo but think that it's somewhat lacking in the LFE dept  :shake:
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=35782)
The best of many recent Blu-ray concert aquistions. My wife even commented about the quality of the sound, and believe me that doesen't happen all too often.

 Bob
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: cacophony777 on 15 Sep 2010, 05:39 pm
cacophony777!!

 :banana piano: :beer: :violin: :drums: :guitar: :rock: :bounce: :thankyou: :hyper: :dance: :weights: :jester: :wine:

Woo hoo, I've been needing a hat!  :green:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 15 Sep 2010, 07:09 pm
Just for the record,

fishinbob recommended the:

Vivaldi: La Stravaganza - Podger/Arte Dei Suonatori

Way back on page 25 of this large thread!!

And for some reason I missed it in compiling my list...

I will update and am working on installment 3 and hope to have it up soon.

All the best
Alex
 :D
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: noshortcuts on 16 Sep 2010, 05:04 am
Note to noshortcuts, there are links on the first page to lists of the many demo cds. its a bit dated and I am working on an update and will post soon. Most of what you listed are in the thread somewhere!! But thanks much anyway!! Keep the coming!

All the best
Alex
[/quote]

Cool. Glad to find the lists. I see dozens that I agree with and so many more to try out. Still, I only see two of my 5 listed (Genius Loves Company and Eiji Oue). Might want to check out the others.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 16 Sep 2010, 11:59 am
noshortcuts!!

Absolutely!! Keep them coming!!

Not all of the selections are everyones 'cup of tea' but thats fine!!

I have widened my musical perspective via many of the recommendations.

We look for the best of the best, the great recordings that are recorded well, great imaging, etc...

Those 'WOW' cds that you just cant wait to share with your audiophile friends and even those that are audiophiles!!

Thanks again for the latest round of selections!!

All the best
Alex
 :D
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 16 Sep 2010, 05:20 pm
Yahoo!!

Another milestone, we passed the 1000th post this past week and now we have hit the 50,000 views mark!!!

Ok congrats to all!!

2000 posts, and 100,000 views..we are on are way!

Alex
 :D

Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: fishinbob on 16 Sep 2010, 05:23 pm
Big sound and fine performances. An excellent demo for multi-channel music. This disc usually sits near the top of the pile. :thumb:
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=35825)
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Saturn94 on 19 Sep 2010, 09:47 pm
Big sound and fine performances. An excellent demo for multi-channel music. This disc usually sits near the top of the pile. :thumb:
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=35825)

Is this multichannel?  I found it on Amazon but there is no indication on the cover or descripton that it is multichannel (as apposed to 2 channel).
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: fishinbob on 20 Sep 2010, 04:54 am
Is this multichannel?  I found it on Amazon but there is no indication on the cover or descripton that it is multichannel (as apposed to 2 channel).
Yup :thumb:
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=35979)
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: lonewolfny42 on 20 Sep 2010, 04:54 am
Is this multichannel?  I found it on Amazon but there is no indication on the cover or descripton that it is multichannel (as apposed to 2 channel).

Hybrid Disc (SACD Surround / SACD Stereo / CD Stereo)

http://www.bis.se/index.php?albumLook%5B%5D=BIS-SACD-1591&op=albumMulti&Submit2=Show&sokImages=
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Saturn94 on 20 Sep 2010, 01:53 pm
Thanks! :)
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: funkmonkey on 21 Sep 2010, 04:11 am
Okay this may not be ideal "demo" material, and I may be a little behind in discovering this one but it's probably my favorite CD I picked up in the last year:
Steven Marley - Mind Control
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=36023) (http://www.amazon.com/Mind-Control-Stephen-Marley/dp/B000MRP2ZO/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1285041792&sr=1-1)
also available is Mind Control acoustic
Both are excellent

Cheers
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Kinger on 23 Sep 2010, 04:33 pm
Finally couldn't take it anymore and had to try some of these recommended demo CD's out through Amazon's used CD purchase ability.  Picked up the following:

Tommy Emmanuel - Liveone
Erikah Badu - Baduizm
Fourplay - Between the Sheets and their self titled release
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: lonewolfny42 on 25 Sep 2010, 08:29 am
I've been playing this Cd at least once a night ....guy sings pretty good for 70 years old...here's his latest appearance on Letterman....

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7UTf2nXPPhM



Yes....it's Tom Jones.... :lol:

But his newest album is quiet good....This is Tom Jones going back to his roots on an album of gospel, blues, traditional and country songs, wearing his heart on his sleeve, emotionally raw and true.

“We wanted to go back to basics, go back to the source, it was just me singing live with a rhythm section - no overdubbing, no gimmicks, no complicated horn and string arrangements, just get the song down in an entire take, capture the meaning of the song, its spirituality, its life, and capture that moment, right there. And I think that’s what we’ve done...”

I agree....the album  ......."Praise & Blame" (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B003R4Z7EU/ref=s9_simh_bw_p15_d0_i1?pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=center-3&pf_rd_r=1C72FPBE9KYAVEEDBRWV&pf_rd_t=101&pf_rd_p=1247290242&pf_rd_i=5174)

(http://images.huffingtonpost.com/2010-07-27-51v1AbOBnL._SL500_AA300_.jpg)

Check it out...  :beer:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 25 Sep 2010, 03:14 pm
Tom Jones! 70!!

WOW, what a nice performance on the you tube link!

I really liked it..off to the A..!!

Kinger let us know how you like your choices!


All the best !
Alex
 :D
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Atlplasma on 26 Sep 2010, 07:58 pm
I think many people won't like Praise &  Blame on the first listen. I wasn't sure about it myself until playing it through for the third or fourth time.

Something else to consider is Robert Plant's new Band of Joy.


(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=36255)
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: nyc_paramedic on 27 Sep 2010, 10:58 pm
I admit this is not a CD, nor a Blu-Ray disc, but CD quality/high-resolution material. It's from a website called Masters From Their Day, and I believe it's either sponsored or owned by Benchmark (they make DACs and ADCs) Media Systems. They are free downloads in 24bit/88khz and 16bit/44.1khz.

I'm very fond of the first track by Annie and the Beekeepers as it sounds *wonderful* on my HT-2 TLs with my Ayre QB-9 USB DAC in 24/88.

Link:http://www.mastersfromtheirday.com/#audiodownload2

'Tis free, so enjoy!

P.S My HT-2 TL have brought me to a whole other level of emotional involvement with my Ayre QB-9 playing hi-res material.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 28 Sep 2010, 05:17 pm
Hello to Everyone!

Been working on the master list, up to page 43 and hope to finish up this weekend and post the updates.

All the best!
Alex

 :D
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: taoggniklat on 29 Sep 2010, 05:33 pm
Hello to Everyone!

Been working on the master list, up to page 43 and hope to finish up this weekend and post the updates.

All the best!
Alex

 :D

Hi Adyula,

Did you see the file I posted. I have reformatted the original spreadsheet a little bit to clean it up.

Thanks for all your work here in this topic.

Jared
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 29 Sep 2010, 05:52 pm
Hello taoggniklat,

Yes, I was going to ask you to take the updates I have just finished and add them to the spreadsheet you have done so well.

There may be some duplicates in this latest installment.

Its getting to be quite a list for sure!

Ok I am going to try to post what I have to date in a few minutes..

Alex
 :D
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 29 Sep 2010, 06:07 pm
Ok! Finally..this should catch us up to the latest recommendations...my apologies for any mistypes, mispellings and items that I might have missed inadvertently.

Enjoy!
Alex
 :D

Page 32


Rosemary Clooney's "At Long Last"

Oscar Peterson's "We Get Requests"

Oscar Peterson's "Tracks"

Mingus's "Blues and Roots"

Larry Coryell's "Visions In Blue"

Jamie Cullum's "Catching Tales"

Michael Buble's "Michael Buble"

Mcoy Tyner's "Infinity"


PAGE 33


Ray LaMontagne's "Till The Sun Turns Black"

Stan Getz & Charlie Byrd "Jazz Samba"

Quincy Coleman's "Also Known As Mary"

Qunicy Coleman's "Come Closer'

Little Feet's "Waiting for Columbus"

Janis Ian's "Breaking Silence"

Jorma Kaukonen's "River of Time"


PAGE 34


Byron Metcalf's " Wachuma's Wave"

Joan Armatrading's "Joan Armatrading"

Tool's "Lateralus"

Enya "The Memory of Trees"

Dido's "Safe Trip Home"


PAGE 35


Kelly Sweet's "We Are One"

Celtic Women "Essential Collection"

XX's "XX"

Pat Methany "Still Life"

Allen Toussaint's "Bright Mississippi"


PAGE 36


Richie Haven's "Mixed Bag'

Bill Withers "Lean On Me - The Best of

Bill Withers"

Boz Scagg's "Silk"

Chris Rea's 'Road to Hell"

Dido's "Life For Rent"

Dido's "No Angel"


PAGE 37


Bee Fee's "Saturday Night Fever"

Erykah Badu "Baduizm"

Madeski Martin & Wood "Combustication"

Laurie Anderson "Life On A String"

Lugi Boccherini "Fandango-Sinfonie Musica-Nocturna"

Eric Clapton BB-King "Riding"


PAGE 38


Corine Bailey Rae "Corine Bailey Rae"

Beth Orton's "Central Reservation"

Erin Moran "A Girl Called Eddy"

Tracy Thorn "Out Of the Woods"


PAGE 39


Plumb "Chaotic Reserve"

Peter Townsend/Ronnie Lane "Rough Mix"

Natalie Cole "Ask A Woman Who Knows"

Kenny Rankin "A Song For You"

Wynton Marsalis "Standard Time"

Allison Krauss "A Hundred Miles or More:A Collection"

Al Jarreau "All I Got"


PAGE 40


Joe Beard / Ronnie Earl "Blues Union"

Bruce Katz Band "A Deeper Blue"

Shaham/Sollcher "Paganini for Two"

Kenny Burrell "Midnight Blue"

Cowboy Junkies "200 Miles"

XX "XX"

Helen Humes "Songs I Like to Sing"

Gordon Goodwin "Property of Gordon Goodwins Big Phat Band XXL" and :Swingin for the Fences"

Jim Brock "Tropical Affair"


PAGE 41

Sting "Brand New Day" and "Field of Dreams" and "10 Summoners Tales"

Kruder & Dorfmeister "The K&D Sessions"

Les Hommes "Les Hommes"

Nicola Conte "Jet Sounds"

Koop "Koop Islands" and " Waltz for Koop"

Walter Hyatt "King Tears"

Martin Denny "The Best of Martin Denny's Exotica"


PAGE 42


Jimi Hendrix "Valley of Neptune"

Joshua Bell "At Home With Friends"

Fourplay "Energy"

Jack McDuff "Down Home Style"

Al Kooper "Rekooperation"

Katatonia "The Great Cold Distance"

Lee Ritenour "Smoke and Mirrors"

David Elias "Crossing"

"International Guitar Night II"

Bill Withers "Greatest Hits"


PAGE 43


Manhattan Jazz Quintet "My Funny Valentine"

Cat Power "Jukebox' and "You Are Free"

Holly Cole 'Temptation"

Ry Cooder "Crossroads Soundtrack"

Lyambiko "Out Of This Mood"

Markr Knofler & Emmylou Harris "All the Roadrunning"

Pat Metheny "New Chautauqua"


PAGE 44


Dido "Life For Rent"

Eva Cassidy "Live at Blues Alley"

Sara K & Chris Jones "Are We There Yet?"

Allison Krauss "A Hundred Miles or More:A Collection"

Dave Chesky "Club de Sol"

Manhattan Jazz Quintet "Autumn Leaves"

James Taylor "October Road"

Jim Brock "Tropic Affair" and "The Equator"

Andy McKee "Sound Roots" and 'Next"
(Mapleshade Label)

Ben Harper & The Blind Boys of Alabama "There Will Be A Light"

Clifford Jordan Quartet "Live At Ethells"

Johnny Cash "American - IV Man Comes Around"


PAGE 45


Doreen Smith "In the Still of the Night"A tribute to Julie London

Emil Gilels "Beethoven: Sonaten - Pathétique & Mondschein"

Nelson Freire "Chopin The Nocturnes"

Maria Joao Pires "Chopin The Nocturnes'

Darol Anger "Heritage"



PAGE 46


George Winston "December'

Lee Ritenour "Color Rit"

Jake Shimabukuro "Gently Weeps"

Nina Natasia "Dogs"



PAGE 47


Andreas Kapsalis and Goran Ivanovic "Guitar Duo"

Ben Harper "Both Sides of the Gun"

Eleni Mandell "Miracle of Five"

Two Siberians "Out of Nowhere"


PAGE 48


The Ditty Bops "The Ditty"

Al Dimeola "Elegant Gypsy" & "Kiss My Axe"

Fourplay "In Between the Sheets"

Roland Olazabel "tomcats Outside Screaming"

Bill Evans "Waltz for Debbie"

Andy McKee "Sound Roots" and "Next"
(Mapleshade)


PAGE 49


The Gregory James Quartet "Samara"

Houston Perry "The Party"

Mike Garson "Oxnard Sessions Vol 2" and "Serendipity"

Tommy Emmanuel "CGP Live"

Chet Atkins & Tommy Emmanuel "The Day Finger Pickers Took Over The World"

Willie Nelson "Milk Cow Blues"

Mikey Hart "Global Drum Project"

David Lindley & Hani Naser "Official Bootleg #2" and "Live In Tokyo"



PAGE 50

Martin Taylor "Gypsy Journey"

Alex De Grassi "De Man Ia"

Crimson Jazz Trio "King Crimson Songbook"

Bobby McFerrin "VOCAbularies"

Gary Burton & Friends "Departure"

Sir Adrian Boult "Holst The Planets"

The Black Keys "Brothers"

Martin Taylor "Tapestry" SACD

Safri Duo "Epsisode II"

Masanga "Mas"

MGMT "Oracular Spectacular"


PAGE 51


Bill Evans "Sunday at the Village Vanguard"

Janine Jansen "The Four Seasons"

Puccini: Madame Butterfly - Leinsdorf Vivaldi: La Stravaganza - Podger/Arte Dei Suonatori

Enigma "Le Roi Est Mort, Vive Le Roi!"

Mahler: Symphony No. 3 (hybrid SACD)

Gustav Mahler, et al

Bob Marley "Legand"

Edvard Greig "Peer Gynt Suites"

Tom Jones "Praise & Blame"


PAGE 52

Robert Plant "Band of Joy"
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 30 Sep 2010, 01:39 am
Lately life has been a bitof a real pain, with my right ear recovering from a mechanical blockage, still not 100% and not being able to really listen to music the way I like to. Work, family, car problems and all the rest of the things we mortals go thru in life.

So it was a very, very special night when I went upstairs and turned on all the stuff and played several cuts from a bunch of cds...all sounded kind of strange with the imbalance in the ears etc....not good.

I have been playing with all kinds of ways to deliver sound to my SongTowers, experimenting with PC's Flacs, Squeezebox Touch, Asset UnpN DLNA and others.

So I went back to just putting a CD in the Oppo and only having it and the Ultravalve in the music reproduction loop, plus the AVA preamp.

The cd was Erin Moran's "A Girl Called Eddy". Insert disk, hit play and crank it up.

WOW, I was floored even with my crappy not 100% right ear problem. I instantly forgot about all of lifes woes, and was swept away to that magical place we go when you hear really fine material for the first time.

Oneinthepipe recommended this selection back on page 38. I got a used copy from the A and its sat there for many weeks until tonight.

Taken from a review on A: Most of the songs are slow-paced, sensitive and downbeat, with a very 60's feel, which I found uplifting and very warm - an extremely pleasureable experience. Her voice is very easy on the ear and one which makes you want to listen closely, but when it needs to be extended/stretched, it sounds stronger, purer and even better. There are also some really nice, understated string arrangements and some lovely tight playing by her backing band.

This has got to be one of the best recordings I have heard where the female voice is so good its like she is there in the room...just wonderful. Maybe its the reverb etc...but the album grows on  you. Its melodic and hauntingly beautiful...slow, moody and words that speak to many of us in special ways.

I hope some of you get this selection and enjoy it as much as I have!! Just when things are crap, this music made me smile once again!

I can wait to hear this when my ear finally clears up in few weeks!

http://www.amazon.com/Girl-Called-Eddy/dp/B0002IQGBC/ref=sr_1_1?s=gateway&ie=UTF8&qid=1285809440&sr=8-1

All the best
Alex
 :D :D :D

http://www.anti.com/catalog/view/18/A_Girl_Called_Eddy/?notes=true

Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: taoggniklat on 30 Sep 2010, 05:13 pm
Hello taoggniklat,

Yes, I was going to ask you to take the updates I have just finished and add them to the spreadsheet you have done so well.

There may be some duplicates in this latest installment.

Its getting to be quite a list for sure!

Ok I am going to try to post what I have to date in a few minutes..

Alex
 :D

I won't be able to work on it till this weekend. We are in the end of quarter cycle at work and I am too busy with that right now.
Title: Thanks!
Post by: OmahawkSCM on 6 Oct 2010, 08:13 pm
This thread is filled with wonderful suggestions and I thank each and every one of you for them. I took the time to search amazon and found many of them to be shipped "fulfilled by amazon". So, I ordered a few of them to reach the "free shipping if you spend over 25". Here is what is on the way:
daniel lanois - shine
bob james - dancing on the water
mia doi todd - morning music
lyle lovett - joshua judges ruth
cassandra wilson - new moon daughter
virginia rodriguez - sol negro
keb mo - just like you
john lee hooker - chill out

It was under $28 for all of it shipped. Looking forward to listening to all of it.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 6 Oct 2010, 10:11 pm

OmahawkSCM!


So Cool!

Dont tell too many people out there!!

Our secret will be gone!!

Only Kidding!

Glad you stopped in for  a look!

Fanatastic Music here for sure!

All the best
Alex
 :D
Title: Re: Thanks!
Post by: scp2 on 7 Oct 2010, 06:32 pm
This thread is filled with wonderful suggestions and I thank each and every one of you for them. I took the time to search amazon and found many of them to be shipped "fulfilled by amazon". So, I ordered a few of them to reach the "free shipping if you spend over 25". Here is what is on the way:
daniel lanois - shine
bob james - dancing on the water
mia doi todd - morning music
lyle lovett - joshua judges ruth
cassandra wilson - new moon daughter
virginia rodriguez - sol negro
keb mo - just like you
john lee hooker - chill out

It was under $28 for all of it shipped. Looking forward to listening to all of it.

OK I have a dumb question...I too buy a lot from amazon...I buy used as I assume you are to get 8 cd's for $28...am I able to combine these for free shipping if I spend more than $25? I saw someone else mention this and I have tried and can't figure it out.

And yes...most of my purchases come from rec's on this thread!!
Title: Re: Thanks!
Post by: OmahawkSCM on 7 Oct 2010, 10:22 pm
OK I have a dumb question...I too buy a lot from amazon...I buy used as I assume you are to get 8 cd's for $28...am I able to combine these for free shipping if I spend more than $25? I saw someone else mention this and I have tried and can't figure it out.

And yes...most of my purchases come from rec's on this thread!!

Not dumb at all. What you have to do is find cds that are shipped "fulfilled by amazon". These cd's can be used or new. They are vendors that have a relationship setup with amazon so that the orders can be combined with amazon products to take advantage of the "free shipping on orders over $25". It takes me a while to fish out the cd's that take advantage of this, but it is well worth it to me.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: jzexport on 15 Oct 2010, 11:00 am
Hello!

I have three new cd's from Keiko Matsui.

The first is Cherry Blossom. Its a 24 bit HDCD disc.

Track 8 "Footsteps" is really good. It has real 'bite'.

Keiko Matsui's "stuff" can be very delicate, lots of deep and underlying things going on .... to the more mundane pop jazzy types of the likes of good ole Kenny G!!  :D

If your in the mood, this is good stuff and laid back.

Hearing this material on really good speakers makes it really an exploratory adventure here...well worth the listen..play it loud and smile!

Let you know about the other discs later!

All the best
Alex

Thanks for introducing me to Keiko Matsui. Check out When I Close My Eyes from Moyo.

If only I had been aware of her earlier this year I could have seen her live, as she came through Pittsburgh. Hopefully, she'll get back here sooner than it's taking the Pirates to get a .500 record.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 15 Oct 2010, 12:14 pm
jzexport!

Cool, Keiko Matsui is pretty ncie and the Cherry Blossom 24 bit HDCD was a nice surprise for sure.

Glad you enjoyed it!

All the best
Alex
 :D

Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 16 Oct 2010, 12:12 am
jzeport..

I went back and re-listened to "Footsteps" from Keiko Matsui's Cherry Blossom HDCD.

The bass slams in this track are outstanding.

I think this is a real awesome demo cut for sure, Jim Salk could use this for demos at shows and make lots of people smile!
 :D

I also went back and replayed Al Koopers "Re-Kooperation", Track 8, "Honky Tonk" play this loud and SMILE...Awesome, Awesome cd.

All the best
Alex
 :D
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: mort on 20 Oct 2010, 03:24 pm
Can you guide me to the other 31 pages of sugestions. Wich page of the thread is this located on, Thanks Mort.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 20 Oct 2010, 05:51 pm
Hi Mort:

In the first page of this thread there are these (3) links that have all the cd's, had to break them up because of the size. Hope to get them into a spreadsheet and share if I ever get the chance.

Alex
 :D


PART ONE & PART TWO LINK TO LIST of RECOMMENDED CDs in THIS Thread as of 11/12/09:
http://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=63936.msg693819#msg693819

PART THREE LINK TO LIST of RECOMMENDED CDs In THIS Thread as of 12/29/09:
http://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=63936.msg712398#msg712398

PART FOUR LINK TO LIST of RECOMMENDED CDs In THIS Thread as of 9/29/10:
http://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=63936.msg842137#msg842137

Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: mort on 21 Oct 2010, 12:22 am
Thanks I did not even think of going to the first page :duh: Thank you for compiling the data. I think I will purchase one a week!
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 21 Oct 2010, 12:47 am
Mort,

Not all of the cds in the list are too my 'taste' but most are. You can listen to samples on line and choose those you really like etc.

This set of cd's would make an awesome colletction....I have had hundreds of hours of enjoyment for sure!

All the best
Alex
 :D
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: taoggniklat on 21 Oct 2010, 04:42 pm
I apologize I have not been able to work on the spreadsheet. . Life has just been busy.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: taoggniklat on 27 Oct 2010, 02:52 pm
Don't know if this CD was mentioned yet, but I just got it yesterday.

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=34340)


Chet Atkins said Australian-born guitarist Tommy Emmanuel was the greatest finger picker in the world today.  Before he died, Les Paul said he was still learning from Tommy.  Eric Clapton said he was the greatest guitar player he had ever seen.

This is a live double CD with Tommy playing solo (with his bass player "Tom Thumb").  No overdubs, no re-takes, this guy is simply amazing.  If you want to hear a guitar player without equal, check it out.

http://www.amazon.com/Liveone-Tommy-Emmanuel/dp/B000K7UFV2/ref=dp_return_2?ie=UTF8&n=5174&s=music (http://www.amazon.com/Liveone-Tommy-Emmanuel/dp/B000K7UFV2/ref=dp_return_2?ie=UTF8&n=5174&s=music)

- Jim

I just got this one myself, wow this is fantastic. Right up my alley I love acoustic guitar. Thanks for sharing.

Jared
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Ronm1 on 27 Oct 2010, 06:11 pm
Troubadour - Donovan Sacd
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: lonewolfny42 on 27 Oct 2010, 08:56 pm
taoggniklat/Jared....

Check out Tommy Emmanuel's DVDs.....these two are excellent... :guitar:

"Center Stage"... (http://www.amazon.com/Center-Stage-Ac3-Tommy-Emmanuel/dp/B001FB0WBK/ref=pd_sim_m_3)....and ......"Live at Sheldon Concert Hall".... (http://www.amazon.com/Mel-Bay-presents-Tommy-Emmanuel/dp/B0001Y9U9W/ref=pd_cp_d_2)

Here's.....a taste.... (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5Z6eFqu-ppY)  :thumb:

Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Kinger on 27 Oct 2010, 09:00 pm
Just gave a listen to that Tommy Emmanuel CD last night.  Great great sound on that for sure..........
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: taoggniklat on 27 Oct 2010, 09:14 pm
taoggniklat/Jared....

Check out Tommy Emmanuel's DVDs.....these two are excellent... :guitar:

"Center Stage"... (http://www.amazon.com/Center-Stage-Ac3-Tommy-Emmanuel/dp/B001FB0WBK/ref=pd_sim_m_3)....and ......"Live at Sheldon Concert Hall".... (http://www.amazon.com/Mel-Bay-presents-Tommy-Emmanuel/dp/B0001Y9U9W/ref=pd_cp_d_2)

Here's.....a taste.... (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5Z6eFqu-ppY)  :thumb:



Thanks for the recommendation
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 27 Oct 2010, 09:43 pm
Jared,

The Tommy Emmanuels CD's are really nice.

I have several Chet Atkins cds. SAILS comes to mind...not real hard core jazz but a really good listen...

http://www.amazon.com/Sails-Chet-Atkins/dp/B000KQF7BG/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1288215738&sr=1-1

This is 5 star rated stuff....

Alex
 :D
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: lonewolfny42 on 27 Oct 2010, 09:44 pm
Here's a little tune.....from Jake and Tommy... (Jake Shimabukuro, his Cd..."Gently Weeps"... (http://www.amazon.com/Gently-Weeps-Jake-Shimabukuro/dp/B000HIP44M/ref=sr_1_2?s=music&ie=UTF8&qid=1288215706&sr=1-2)...it's on the Demo list)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J5qakFIecBU
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 27 Oct 2010, 11:17 pm
Chris all I can say is 'WOW"!!!

Alex
 :D
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: bigbwb on 28 Oct 2010, 01:42 am
Has anyone heard the tracks off of Santana's new album "Guitar Heaven"?  I really enjoyed the recording quality of Supernatural and like some of the tracks on the new album, so just curious:)

Thanks,
Brandon
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: lonewolfny42 on 28 Oct 2010, 01:50 am
Has anyone heard the tracks off of Santana's new album "Guitar Heaven"?  I really enjoyed the recording quality of Supernatural and like some of the tracks on the new album, so just curious:)

Thanks,
Brandon

Not one of Santana's better efforts..... :shake: ....it's too bad.

http://www.amazon.com/Guitar-Heaven-Greatest-Classics-Time/dp/B003TML0VO/ref=sr_1_1?s=music&ie=UTF8&qid=1288230494&sr=1-1
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 30 Oct 2010, 01:15 am
Oh how nice it is to have my "EARS" back!

Listening has been soooo sweet tonight. I got all my cd's digitized to FLAC on a laptop pc connected via ethernet to my Oppo BD 83 SE to the AVA preamp to the marvelous Ultravalve and I just cant imagine music coming out of my Salk SongTowers could be any better!!

Jim Horn's Neon Nights...Big in your face, loud, sultry sax with a beat that will knock your socks off!! And you can get this for as little as $2.38!!

http://www.amazon.com/Neon-Nights-Jim-Horn/dp/B000008BAN/ref=sr_1_11?ie=UTF8&qid=1288400509&sr=8-11

This guy was one of the most sought after horn players in the 70's and 80's
Check out the list of groups he has played with at:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jim_Horn

From Duane Eddy to the Beach Boys to the Beatles and on and on!

I forgot how good a CD this is, try LIDO LADIES and play it loud sam..

All the best
Alex :D
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: mort on 30 Oct 2010, 01:29 am
I just purchased the Stereophile test cd's. There are some good recordings plus cool interactive listining challanges and test's. The recorders do things like phase shifting in the middle of vocal passages and edits that they dare you to find. Additionaly they record tracks with several different mic's and repete songs so that the person auditioning the song can here the difference between expensive mic's as well as off the shelf affordable ones. Cheers, Mort
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 30 Oct 2010, 10:38 pm
Hi Mort,

Thanks for the input, I never have listened to any "test" cds, only the RMAF, RAVE, Boulder Audio, SALK and a few other demo discs.

Guess I will have to take a look into to some of these!

Alex
 :D
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: lonewolfny42 on 31 Oct 2010, 03:03 am
Chesky also has some good "test" Cd's.....worth picking up... :thumb:

http://www.amazon.com/Chesky-Records-Sampler-Audiophile-Compact/dp/B000003GF3

http://www.amazon.com/Best-Chesky-Classics-Jazz-Audiophile/dp/B000003GFM/ref=pd_sim_m_3

http://www.amazon.com/Ultimate-Demonstration-Disc-Critical-Listening/dp/B00002MXUH/ref=pd_sim_m_3
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 3 Nov 2010, 10:58 pm
Finally got to really listen to the Tommy Emmanuel CD that Jim recommended a few pages back...WOW its awesome!

I looked him up and to my surprise he is on tour all over the world and next Feb he will be playing about 25 miles east from me in Clayton, NC!

And Yes I am going 10 seats back for $25 each for me and my wife!!!

YAHOO!!

Alex
 :D :D :banana piano: :violin: :drums: :guitar: :bounce: :dance: :hyper:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: lonewolfny42 on 4 Nov 2010, 06:12 am
Some good shows there Alex....and the ticket prices are very reasonable ... 8)

http://www.theclaytoncenter.com/schedule.html
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: taoggniklat on 5 Nov 2010, 06:55 pm
My CD's (Joss Stone, Holly Cole and Eleni Mandell) arrived and I am ripping them to FLAC now.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: randybessinger on 5 Nov 2010, 09:42 pm
Tommy Emanuel is not from this planet....he defies human ability.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Kinger on 5 Nov 2010, 10:34 pm
He was in Cincinnati a few weeks back and I missed him :(
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: mort on 7 Nov 2010, 04:01 am
Pearl Jam V.S.  Although Pearl Jam is probably my favorite band I rareley listen to them criticaly. Last night I did and the album was versus WOW! what a cleanly recorded album, really holographic praticularly on W.M.A the drums and congos are F*****G awesome.  The first song GO hits with an intensity rarley found it's extreamly dynamic this continues through Animal and Dissesent. Play it loud and enjoy.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 9 Nov 2010, 07:40 pm
Hi Mort, thanks for the recommendation!!

I have been listening lately but none that really pop out as demo quality levels.

I did re-listen to Holly Coles "It happened One Night:
http://www.amazon.com/Happened-One-Night-Holly-Cole/dp/B000005H6R/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1289331588&sr=8-1

Its a 5 start rated cd and it was AWESOME.

All the best
Alex
 :D
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: S Clark on 11 Nov 2010, 02:01 am
Another Manhattan Jazz Quintet cd.  Man, these guys are good and the recordings range from very good to absolutely incredible.  This one is only slightly incredible.



(http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_7t6LrxfSR0g/SA15GZZwnDI/AAAAAAAAD5Q/3ohrtsL6RQ8/s320/Manhattan+Jazz+Quintet+%28Live!%29.jpg)

Alex, if you haven't picked up a copy of this one yet, and I have listed it here before, it may be the best recorded cd I own.

(http://sudo.3.pro.tok2.com/Quest/cards/M/ManhattanJazzQuintet/MyFunnyValentine.gif)
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 11 Nov 2010, 12:26 pm
S Clark,

Cool, I will get a copy of this one for sure.
Slightly Incredible is pretty darn good!!

All the best
Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: TJC712 on 12 Nov 2010, 11:04 pm
Hey folks... nice to check back in... haven't been around much. Pick up Desert Island Dreamers by The Pizzarelli Boys. Some interesting takes on a wide variety of tunes. High quality stuff across the board.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 13 Nov 2010, 11:59 pm
Hello TJC712

Nice to hear from your again and thanks for the recommendation. I am sitting here listening to the Beatles Remastered, Please Please Me. Not really the demo stuff we are looking for in this threas, but recently I have been going back and re-living my 'youth" and the sound quality of these remastered recording are really good for what they are...for stuff made way back when.

Update: Listened to Walter Hyatt, "King Tears". I know this has been recommended earlier, but for those that dont go back a read pages and pages of posts..if you havent got a copy of this cd, just go get it!! Its a "10" for sure. The bass in this is so fine, and Walter Hyatt has a voice that is sooooo awesome. Sure wish he was still around! You will listen to this one more than once..oh so little time!

All the best
Alex
 :D
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 16 Nov 2010, 12:53 am
Hello,

Tonight was Chet Atkins night, I got three new Chet Atkins cds and lets say I am a Chet Atkins fan and a Beatles fan and of course I think I am a purist and audiophile...where is this leading?

Chet Atkins "Picks on the Beatles" and we also get a journey back into recording history!

Can you say "Dynagroove" LOL

I have always been a fan of the Beatles songs, the simple happy go lucky 2-3 minute ditties that I grew up with...along with Dynaco, Heathkits and the like. When I discoverd Chet Atkins, was playing some really neat soft jazz and the two crossed with instrumentals I was in heaven.

Chet Atkins "Sail" cd is still one of my favorite demo cds.

The Beatles recodings of so long ago arent the best demo type of cd, even the remastered ones which are good are really not as good as many of the CDs in this thread.

This CD came out in March 1966 as LSP-3531 Produced by Chet Atkins and Bob Ferguson. Recorded in RCA's "Nashville Sound" Studio, Nashville, Tn.

Recording Engineer: Bill Vandevort

This was touted as a Dynagroove Record.

From the Label:

"Dynagroove records are the product of RCA Victor's newly developed system of recording which provides a spectacular improvement in the sound quality.

Characteristics:

1. Brilliance and clarity: the original sound in startling definiton.
2. Realistic presence: sound projected in "photographic" perspective"
3. Full-bodied tone: even when you listen at low level.
4. Surface noise virtually eliminated.
5. Inner-groove distortion virtually eliminated.

To solve those old and obstinate problems in disc recoding, highly ingenious computers, "electronic" brains have been introduced to audio for the first time. These remarkable new electronic devices and processes grew out of an intense research project which produces notable advances in virtually every step of the recording science. The final test of any record is in the listening compare the sound of Dynagroove recordings.


"Dynagroove recordings are mastered on RCA master tape." 

Why all this history and lineage, well I have nothing else better to do right now and it lead to this LP being remastered in 1996 by Benny Quinn at Masterfonics Inc, Nashville TN. Produced by Steve Lindsey for MaxAmor productions.  On cd!

If you research RCA Dynagroove on the net you will find out what it was, what it did, good and bad....the neat thing here in 2010, I get to hear a guitar master, Chet Atkins along with Charlie McCoy on Harmonica..frrm 1966 playing my favorite Beatles tunes by a Certified Guitar Player and you get to listen to the technology that was being touted way back then as well.

This is a guitar cd, well played, well interpreted, simple and with Chet Atkins style...it made me smile many times...


http://www.amazon.com/Picks-Beatles-Chet-Atkins/dp/B0012GMVJO/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1289866673&sr=8-1

Hope you like the diatribe and hope you enjoy the trip back in time.

All the best
Alex

 :D :D
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: lonewolfny42 on 16 Nov 2010, 01:09 am
Alex....

Quote
Tonight was Chet Atkins night, I got three new Chet Atkins cds...

Hope you got this one too.... :wink:

Chet Atkins - "Almost Alone" .... (http://www.amazon.com/Almost-Alone-Chet-Atkins/dp/B000002BFU/ref=tmm_other_title_0)
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: pumpkinman on 16 Nov 2010, 01:49 am
Alex....

Hope you got this one too.... :wink:

Chet Atkins - "Almost Alone" .... (http://www.amazon.com/Almost-Alone-Chet-Atkins/dp/B000002BFU/ref=tmm_other_title_0)

Uncle LoneWolf how many recordings did Chet Atkins do !!! 
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: lonewolfny42 on 16 Nov 2010, 01:54 am
Uncle LoneWolf how many recordings did Chet Atkins do !!! 

A lot..... Link... (http://www.allmusic.com/artist/chet-atkins-p1510/discography)  :guitar:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: pumpkinman on 16 Nov 2010, 02:03 am
A lot..... Link... (http://www.allmusic.com/artist/chet-atkins-p1510/discography)  :guitar:

 :notworthy: :notworthy: :notworthy:   Thank You
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 16 Nov 2010, 12:28 pm
I thought I read its was 124 albums in total.

Alex
 :D
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 21 Nov 2010, 01:38 am
Another night of 'EarGasmic" experience's...

I got a copy of Chet Atkins "Almost Alone"

http://www.amazon.com/Almost-Alone-Chet-Atkins/dp/B000002BFU/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1290302077&sr=8-2

Its a HDCD and its really great.

My favorite Chet Atkins CD is "Sails" and I have not listened to it since I got the Ultravalve amp. So after "Almost Alone" I decided to give it a listen. The amp, pre and BD83SE were nice and warmed up.

In it went and I was "floored" Music doesnt have any right to sound this good....Chet Atkins on this CD to me is FLAWLESS. He was such a fantastic guitar player, a perfectionist and in this cd the co-ordination, the putting it all together with all the instruments, the way it is mixed and recorded is a "10".

Track 6 on Sails is called "Laffin at Life" has so many things going on, rythm, drum slams to die for, impecable guitar playing, imaging, instrument sounds, cymbals, things that I have no idea what they are called but make all kinds of shimmering metallic sounds....its fantastic.

From Amazon Review:

One of my favorite CD's of all time. I've given this as gifts and everyone loves it. A perfect CD to watch the sunset to. The first song starts with waves, then seagulls, then beautiful guitar music. The remahttp://www.amazon.com/Sails-Chet-Atkins/dp/B000KQF7BG/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1290303066&sr=1-1inder of the CD continues the relaxed, beautiful mood. Not a country CD, just good music."

Yes its not country but is definitely Chet Atkins signature in spades.

This cd is on my top 10 cds.

And you can buy it for $2.33!!!


http://www.amazon.com/Sails-Chet-Atkins/dp/B000KQF7BG/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1290303066&sr=1-1

All the best
Alex

 :thumb: :thumb:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 3 Dec 2010, 12:38 am
Hello,

I had this 2 CD set lying around for awhile now, I bought it being a fan and liked the easy going tunes these guys sang....but there earlier cds arent really demo quality but this set is done very well and if you want to audition some 'pop' type music this will fill the bill nicely.

Its in the Country Rock genre, The Eagles, Long Road Out of Eden.

http://www.amazon.com/Long-Road-Out-Eden-Eagles/dp/B002Q7JYPC/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1291336189&sr=8-1

Yes this is not Dave Brubeck, George Benson, Mile Davis but its good music, well done and well recorded.

Give it a spin and you might just smile alot!!

All the best
Alex
 :thumb:

Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 29 Dec 2010, 03:26 pm
Hello, its been quiet on this thread, been real busy with life, work etc...I am in the process of remodeling a bathroom, shower, walls, wiring, plumbing, tile work, carpentry etc..Mr Fix It!! 

Been listening to some new stuff, but nothing that I would call 'Outstanding' Demo quality stuff. A bit disappointing.

I did get a copy of the 1994 Eric Claptons "Unplugged" and listened to it last night and its was pretty good.

I also got 2 cd's of Doc Powell, Laid Back and the 97th and Columbus discs.
The 97th and Columbus is really great. I think the "Thank You" track is on one of Jims Demo CD's.

Hope Christmas and the Holidays finds all well...and Happy New Year to all!


All the best
Alex

 :D
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: rodge827 on 29 Dec 2010, 03:56 pm
Tommy Emanuel is not from this planet....he defies human ability.
Yes he is awesome :thumb:, we saw him at the Surflight Theater in Beach Haven, NJ, in Sept. 09.
A great show :D, a must see if you like acoustic guitar.
My wife got me his latest for Christmas, Little By Little, two disks of pure guitar pleasure.
She also got me, Tommy Emmanuel & Frank Vignola-Just Between Fretts...An Awesome ride with two masters playing off each other 8). A must buy.
Also check out the Acoustic Music Resource site. There are many excellent guitarists featured here.

Enjoy,

Rodge


http://www.tommyemmanuel.com/

http://www.acousticmusicresource.com/
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 29 Dec 2010, 04:04 pm
Hey Rodge827...

Will check out the site, cant wait to see Tommy in Feb here in North Carolina!

Alex
 :D
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 5 Jan 2011, 12:51 am
Happy New Year!

I got a new dual cd set "The Very Best of Fleetwood Mac 2-CD"

http://www.amazon.com/Very-Best-Fleetwood-Mac-2CD/dp/B00006JL1Z/ref=sr_1_1?s=music&ie=UTF8&qid=1294187943&sr=1-1

From the slipcase:

The Very Best Of Fleetwood Mac packs 2 CDs with 36 hit singles and popular album tracks spanning 1975-1997. Features the #1 'Dreams' plus the classic hits 'Over My Head,' 'Rhiannon,' 'Go Your Own Way,' 'Don't Stop,' 'You Make Loving Fun,' 'Tusk,' 'Sara,' 'Hold Me,' 'Little Lies,' the live 'Go Insane' from The Dance and 'Silver Springs' currently out of print, and much more. The CD is also enhanced with exclusive footage of Fleetwood Mac making their new 2003 album - their first studio album in 15 years! Plus the vaults - rare live performances, interviews, music videos and more. Only available on this CD. Slipcase. Reprise. 2002.

Its really great to get music that you grew up with remastered very well to enjoy as a demo type cd and be very familiar as well.

The depth of the recordings have been remastered wonderfully, the imaging is superb, things popping in and out all over the soundstage.....I did not like all the cuts as much as some of my favorites, but I forced myself to listen to them am and was rewarded with really neat sonic surprises.

The engineers that re-did this 22 yr span compilation did a wonderful job of making the music sound so good.

The acoustic guitar playing is awesome!

Hope you get to enjoy this one as much as I am!

All the best
Alex

 :D :D
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: putz on 5 Jan 2011, 01:11 am
I'm listening to Fleetwood Mac Greatest Hits as I read your post. Their stuff was really well recorded to begin with so a remaster must sound great. I remember how well the albums sounded when I listened to them on vinyl way back when. Stevie's vocals on Dreams and Rihannon--Sweet.

Happy New Year!

I got a new dual cd set "The Very Best of Fleetwood Mac 2-CD"

http://www.amazon.com/Very-Best-Fleetwood-Mac-2CD/dp/B00006JL1Z/ref=sr_1_1?s=music&ie=UTF8&qid=1294187943&sr=1-1

From the slipcase:

The Very Best Of Fleetwood Mac packs 2 CDs with 36 hit singles and popular album tracks spanning 1975-1997. Features the #1 'Dreams' plus the classic hits 'Over My Head,' 'Rhiannon,' 'Go Your Own Way,' 'Don't Stop,' 'You Make Loving Fun,' 'Tusk,' 'Sara,' 'Hold Me,' 'Little Lies,' the live 'Go Insane' from The Dance and 'Silver Springs' currently out of print, and much more. The CD is also enhanced with exclusive footage of Fleetwood Mac making their new 2003 album - their first studio album in 15 years! Plus the vaults - rare live performances, interviews, music videos and more. Only available on this CD. Slipcase. Reprise. 2002.

Its really great to get music that you grew up with remastered very well to enjoy as a demo type cd and be very familiar as well.

The depth of the recordings have been remastered wonderfully, the imaging is superb, things popping in and out all over the soundstage.....I did not like all the cuts as much as some of my favorites, but I forced myself to listen to them am and was rewarded with really neat sonic surprises.

The engineers that re-did this 22 yr span compilation did a wonderful job of making the music sound so good.

The acoustic guitar playing is awesome!

Hope you get to enjoy this one as much as I am!

All the best
Alex

 :D :D
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 18 Jan 2011, 03:10 pm
Chris,

I got the Chet Atkins 'Almost Alone' and its indeed wonderful.

http://www.amazon.com/Almost-Alone-Chet-Atkins/dp/B000002BFU/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1295363420&sr=1-1

Alex
 :D
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Mitsuman on 18 Jan 2011, 03:40 pm

(http://g-ecx.images-amazon.com/images/G/01/ciu/92/5a/07afc060ada02df9f7788110.L.jpg)

Kinda hard to find, but this CD is so good it will scare you. Recorded in 2-track digital and the dynamics will blow you away.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 18 Jan 2011, 04:07 pm
Hello,

Thanks for the recommendation!

Actually way back in this thread this was mentioned, but its good to bring it up again.
I grew up with these early DDD CD's and Jim Salk has some neat history here that he share earlier about FLIM and company.

The dynamic range is fully explored here, so be careful with your volume on this one, listen at first at a moderate level before you start cranking it up!!! Yahoo!!

It can be found on the A:

http://www.amazon.com/Big-Notes-Flim-Bbs/dp/B000003DCT/ref=sr_1_3?s=music&ie=UTF8&qid=1295366692&sr=1-3

All the best
Alex
 :D
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: TJC712 on 19 Jan 2011, 12:41 am
Happy belated New Years to all. If you enjoy some early 60's, soulful blues, check out Stormy Monday from Lou Rawls. Great vocals from a 21 year old Rawls backed by the tight Les McCann Trio. With all of the later commercial glitz, people sometimes forget what a great voice this dude had. He shows off the goods on this recording. This is him at his best... in my humble opinion.
http://www.amazon.com/Stormy-Monday-Lou-Rawls/dp/B000005HF1/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1295396617&sr=1-1
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 19 Jan 2011, 01:59 am
Happy New Year TJC712!

Thanks for the recommendation, I will try this one for sure. Wonderful voice for sure!

Just got done listening to Gary Herbig's "Friends to Lovers circa 1989. wonderful Sax and very good recording.

http://www.amazon.com/Friends-Lovers-Gary-Herbig/dp/B00000DUYM/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1295402324&sr=1-3

All the best
Alex
 :D
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: lonewolfny42 on 19 Jan 2011, 05:34 am
Chris,

I got the Chet Atkins 'Almost Alone' and its indeed wonderful.

http://www.amazon.com/Almost-Alone-Chet-Atkins/dp/B000002BFU/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1295363420&sr=1-1

Alex
 :D

Good to hear Alex... 8)

How about something a bit different...
I was going through some ECM recordings that I own...almost all their recordings are very well done.

This is from 1976...and it has been reissued...a sort of East meets West Jazz.

Collin Walcott.... (http://www.collinwalcott.com/biography.php) with John Abercrombie, Dave Holland, and Jack DeJohnette.

Collin Walcott defined a corner of improvisation all his own with his unique approach to the sitar and tabla. When the newly-formed Gateway trio of John Abercrombie, Dave Holland and Jack DeJohnette joined him for “Cloud Dance” the results were magical.

The album.... "Cloud Dance" (http://www.amazon.com/Cloud-Dance-Collin-Walcott/dp/B001CITRHQ/ref=sr_1_1?s=music&ie=UTF8&qid=1295407595&sr=1-1) .....Samples... (http://www.amazon.com/Cloud-Dance/dp/B001GPTDTM/ref=tmm_other_title_0?ie=UTF8&qid=1295407595&sr=1-1)

Track two...."Prancing"....a nice duo of bass guitar and tabla....good for checking out you woofers....but the whole album is well done....and a very good late night listen. :thumb:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: metier on 22 Jan 2011, 04:39 pm
Been listening to Gillian Welch Time (The Revelator) this morning, very good recording, and a very sweet voice.

(http://images.uulyrics.com/cover/g/gillian-welch/album-time-the-revelator.jpg)

Metier

Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 23 Jan 2011, 12:56 pm
Thanks metier for the recommendation here is the link at A for some samples:

http://www.amazon.com/Time-Revelator-Gillian-Welch/dp/B00005N8CQ/ref=sr_1_6?ie=UTF8&qid=1295787152&sr=8-6

All the best
Alex
 :D
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: sfox7076 on 27 Jan 2011, 05:57 pm
I think the new Decemberists Album works great to test speakers.  It's a bit folk country, but Gillian Weclh sings on it. 

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004HAG40O/ref=s9_simh_gw_p340_d0_i1?pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=center-2&pf_rd_r=07W0321DB5JVY4EPQ5DR&pf_rd_t=101&pf_rd_p=470938631&pf_rd_i=507846
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 27 Jan 2011, 06:13 pm
sfox 7076,

Tanks for the tip!

Got it coming!

Lookinf forward to experiencing it!!

All the best
Alex

 :D
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: hotmailjbc on 27 Jan 2011, 06:58 pm
my favorite is a cd by bob wasserman called trios. great music and sound. it came out in 1996
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 1 Feb 2011, 08:04 pm
Hotmailjbc,

Thanks for the recommendation!

Here is a link to it:

http://www.amazon.com/Trios-Rob-Wasserman/dp/B000008CIZ/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1296590433&sr=1-2

All the best
Alex
 :D
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Saturn94 on 2 Feb 2011, 09:09 pm
I hadn't seen this mentioned here, but I recently received "2L The Nordic Sound" (it's a sampler of 2L's catalog).  The music is great and the sound quality is up there with the best I've heard.  This "set" includes a music BD and a hybrid SACD.

Highly recommended!
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: lonewolfny42 on 4 Feb 2011, 06:45 am
I hadn't seen this mentioned here, but I recently received "2L The Nordic Sound" (it's a sampler of 2L's catalog).  The music is great and the sound quality is up there with the best I've heard.  This "set" includes a music BD and a hybrid SACD.

Highly recommended!

It is very good.... :thumb:

Amazon MP3 samples.... (http://www.amazon.com/Nordic-Sound-Audiophile-Reference-Recordings/dp/B001NH8I2Q)

2L link.... (http://www.2l.no/)
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: taoggniklat on 2 Mar 2011, 08:13 pm
I think the new Decemberists Album works great to test speakers.  It's a bit folk country, but Gillian Weclh sings on it. 

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004HAG40O/ref=s9_simh_gw_p340_d0_i1?pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=center-2&pf_rd_r=07W0321DB5JVY4EPQ5DR&pf_rd_t=101&pf_rd_p=470938631&pf_rd_i=507846

Hey thanks for this one. I am enjoying it.

Jared
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Saturn94 on 3 Mar 2011, 03:20 am
(http://g-ecx.images-amazon.com/images/G/01/ciu/92/5a/07afc060ada02df9f7788110.L.jpg)

Kinda hard to find, but this CD is so good it will scare you. Recorded in 2-track digital and the dynamics will blow you away.

I thought this looked familiar, so I searched my collection and found that I have FLIM & the BB's "TriCycle" CD on the DMP label.

http://www.amazon.com/Tricycle-Flim-Bbs/dp/B000003DCJ/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1299122285&sr=1-1

I bought this many, many years ago and had forgotten about it.  I'll have to give it a listen on my new Salks and see what I think.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 4 Mar 2011, 03:36 am
Saturn94 the cd has wide dynamics....that is very low hardly audible notes then quickly to the other extreme!! Be careful if you crank up the soft passages watch out the drum whacks will surprise you and maybe a speaker pop!! LOL.

Seriously listen to it at a low to moderate volume to learn where the dynamic transistions are....

Its a really good disc to show off dynamic range for sure.

All the best
Alex
 :D
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Saturn94 on 4 Mar 2011, 04:55 pm
Saturn94 the cd has wide dynamics....that is very low hardly audible notes then quickly to the other extreme!! Be careful if you crank up the soft passages watch out the drum whacks will surprise you and maybe a speaker pop!! LOL.

Seriously listen to it at a low to moderate volume to learn where the dynamic transistions are....

Its a really good disc to show off dynamic range for sure.

All the best
Alex
 :D

TriCycle sounded great.  And you're right, it's quite dynamic.  It can startle you if you're not careful with the volume control. :o
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: ctouhey on 4 Mar 2011, 05:50 pm
I do remember Tricycle.  It was in my initial collection, but I no longer have it.  We were burglarized back in 1984 when I had first started my collection, and they made off with almost 400 CDs.  Some of them I was never able to replace at the time.  I'll have a look for this one.

Chris
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 4 Mar 2011, 11:41 pm
You can get a used copy here:

http://www.amazon.com/gp/offer-listing/B002N3GCD6/ref=dp_olp_used?ie=UTF8&qid=1299282037&sr=8-7&condition=used

Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Art_Chicago on 5 Mar 2011, 02:49 pm

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=43667)


Just recently found out about this great CD.
The sound quality is impeccable imho, recorded live to 2-track analog. Some bluegrass, but mostly acoustic jazz/blues with tango and waltz cuts. Got a used copy under $5.  :thumb:

http://www.amazon.com/Dawgs-Groove-David-Grisman/dp/B000HKDE7O/ref=pd_sim_m_2


Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 5 Mar 2011, 06:27 pm
Thanks Art, copy is on its way!

I saw Tommy Emmanual live last week and was really close to the stage. There are several references to his material a few pages back.

If you havent seen or heard this guy play a guitar you life is NOT complete!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qQhECkexmSI

Great cd: Center Stage:

http://www.amazon.com/Center-Stage-Tommy-Emmanuel/dp/B0016AK3CI/ref=sr_1_1?s=music&ie=UTF8&qid=1299349613&sr=1-1

All the Best!
Alex

 :D :D
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: sanlanman on 21 Mar 2011, 10:26 pm
If you like female jazz vocals, IE: Diana Krall and similar, Listen to this:

Sophie Milman - Take Love Easy.

http://www.amazon.com/Take-Love-Easy-Sophie-Milman/dp/B0026OIBQ8/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1300746306&sr=8-4

I have this disc and I think its great. She has a great set of pipes and is backed up by a tight Jazz group.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 21 Mar 2011, 11:24 pm
Hi sanlanman...you know i really know what your name is all about!!! (smile!).....been doing like stuff for years!! Since packets were invented!

Thanks for the recommendation'

I have a copy on its way!

Alex
 :D
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 31 Mar 2011, 06:04 pm
sanlanman,

Got the Sopie Milman cd and its really nice.

Thanks again for the recommendation!

Alex
 :D
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 7 Apr 2011, 11:39 pm
Ok so where has everyone been lately??

There has to be more great stuff our there!!

Happy Spring to  All!

Alex

 :D
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: karl d on 9 Apr 2011, 02:09 am
Check out:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1l2CcH0vHDc

Sounds heavenly on my new HT1's  8)

Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: taoggniklat on 11 Apr 2011, 07:36 pm
Ok so where has everyone been lately??

There has to be more great stuff our there!!

Happy Spring to  All!

Alex

 :D

Sorry been a bit busy, my wife and I had a baby girl on March 31st.

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v78/taoggniklat/Makena/DSC01127.jpg)
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Saturn94 on 11 Apr 2011, 07:54 pm
Sorry been a bit busy, my wife and I had a baby girl on March 31st.

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v78/taoggniklat/Makena/DSC01127.jpg)

Congratulations!
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 14 Apr 2011, 11:10 pm
Congratulations!

I guess this is a good excuse !!!

All the best!!
Alex
 :D :D
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: jimdgoulding on 15 Apr 2011, 01:20 am
I may have posted this already- it's a long thread- I think everyone should have a Mapleshade CD for the liveness and immediacy.  I mean this is about as straight to your ears via a microphone(s) as a recording can get.  No filtering, no compression, no equalizing, just what's happening in real time.  Visit their website- www.mapleshaderecords.com - for selections or if you're adventurous enough for some avant/funk/jazz, look no futher than Sound Roots by Andy McKee and NEXT.  That's further with an attitude.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 15 Apr 2011, 12:15 pm
Hi, Jim...

Thanks for the reminder about Mapleshade CD's.

I must confess I dont have a one!.

I will take a look...seems like what the early GRP lable was doing with their direct to disc sessions...
Thelma Houston's I've got the Music in Me....

All the best
Alex
 :D
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: jimdgoulding on 15 Apr 2011, 12:43 pm
And the best to you, good sir.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 16 May 2011, 12:53 am
Hello,

I was  listening to some new stuff that really is pretty old but really sounds great!

The group is Special XFX and the CD is called Mystique.

It is an instrumental circa 1990 GRP label.

I saw it available at:

http://www.musicstack.com/album/special+efx/mystique

Wonderful sound, clarity and spaciousness.

Enjoy!

All the best
Alex
 :D  :D
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: dlbeck on 22 May 2011, 01:23 pm
Eva Cassidy's Imagine CD has been mentioned a couple times.  I bought the CD and loved it.  So I picked up the Simply Eva CD.  An amazing CD and the song San Francisco Bay Blues is unreal on the Salks.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 22 May 2011, 08:45 pm
Great glad u like Eva!! She was really awesome...Live at Blues Alley is superb as well...

http://www.amazon.com/Live-Blues-Alley-Eva-Cassidy/dp/B000009PO2/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1306097081&sr=8-1

All the best
Alex
 :D :D :D
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 10 Jun 2011, 11:56 pm
Boy it sure is quiet around here lately!!

This was mentioned months ago, but since I got all my cds digitized and a new HRT asynchronous dac. finding and playing old goodies is easier that spittin in the wind...

Listened to this, it COMES ALIVE and is frankly awesome:
Remasterd with extra tracks...gosh this is a hot one....got to here these tunes LOUD
on a pair of soundscapes!

http://www.amazon.com/Silk-Degrees-Boz-Scaggs/dp/B000HEZF90/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1264826401&sr=1-1

Only $8.39!!! New....go get it, listen and enjoy!!

All the best
Alex
 :D


Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 22 Jul 2011, 02:05 am
Hello to all....well where is everyone??

Just listened to Chris Rea's Road to Hell...yes its a page 36 repeat...

But oh its sooooo good...what a well recorded, mastered disc...wonderful demo cd.

Wake up our there!!!

 :thumb:

All the best
Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: taoggniklat on 22 Jul 2011, 05:33 pm
I may have posted this already- it's a long thread- I think everyone should have a Mapleshade CD for the liveness and immediacy.  I mean this is about as straight to your ears via a microphone(s) as a recording can get.  No filtering, no compression, no equalizing, just what's happening in real time.  Visit their website- www.mapleshaderecords.com - for selections or if you're adventurous enough for some avant/funk/jazz, look no futher than Sound Roots by Andy McKee and NEXT.  That's further with an attitude.

Ordered myself a few...thanks for the suggestion.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: fsimms on 22 Jul 2011, 09:25 pm
Quote
Listened to this, it COMES ALIVE and is frankly awesome:
Remasterd with extra tracks...gosh this is a hot one....got to here these tunes LOUD on a pair of soundscapes!

A SoundScape recommendation!  Kewl!  :thumb:

My old Silk Degrees LP really takes off above 85db on my SoundScapes.  I probably wouldn't have cranked it up without your recomendation. 

I have an old CD of it and it sounds like crap.  I am glad they remastered it.

Bob
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: ArthurDent on 23 Jul 2011, 08:19 am

                   (http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51B9kwcmKcL._SL500_AA300_.jpg)

                    http://www.amazon.com/gp/recsradio/radio/B00002MZ4L/ref=pd_krex_listen_dp_img?ie=UTF8&refTagSuffix=dp_img

                    Don't know if all his recordings are as dynamic & clean as this, but the bass on this is rivaled only on Jim's demo disc. Musically, aside from rock, classical, & country, this pretty much covers all the bases. Blues, big band swing, gospel, jazz, cajun, bluegrass and more. imo the two versions of Rosewood are worth the cost alone.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 23 Jul 2011, 01:37 pm
Hello Mr Dent!

Thanks for the recommendation...I will check it out for sure.....

All the best
Alex
 :thumb:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: fishinbob on 26 Jul 2011, 11:23 pm
Got nothin' but this BUMP.  :D



"Baroque Music for Brass and Organ"
Adele "Adele 19"
Aimee Mann "Live At St. Anns Wharehouse"
Aimee Mann "Magnolia Sundtrack" (One)
Akiko Suwanai "Poeme"
Alanis Morrisette "Jagged Little Pill"  This is the ACOUSTIC VERSION (Enhanced).
Ali Farka Toure & Tuomani Diabatie "In the Heart of the Moon"
Alie In chains "Unplugged Live'
Allison Kraus "Union Station Live"
Allison Krauss "New Favorite", "So Long So Wrong"
Bad Company "Bad Company" (Seagull, Hell..)
Basia "Best of Basis"
Beck "Mutations"
Beethoven Symphony No. 6 ("Pastorale") SACD, Bruno Walter cond. Columbia Symphony Orchestra
Bela Fleck & The Flecktones "UFO","Tofu"
Ben Harper "Fight For Your Mind" (Gold To Me)
Ben Harper "Fight For Your Mind" (Gold To Me, God Fearing Man)
Ben Harper 'White Lies for Dark Times", "There Will Be A Light", "Live From Mars"
Ben Vaughn "Designs in Music" (Too Happy"
Benny Goodman - 'Benny Goodman and Friends'
Bernadette Peters "I'll Be Your Baby Tonight" (Blackbird)
Bill Berry - 'For Duke'
Bill Mays Trio - 'Live at the Jazz Standard'
Bizet - Carmon Fantasie Anne-Sophie-Mutter, Vienner Phil - James Levine
Bliss "Quiet Letters", "Afterlife"
Blood Sweat & Tears "Blood Sweat & Tears" (God Bless the Child)
Blossom Dearie  "Blossum Dearie" (They Say Its Spring, Manhattan)
Blue Rodeo "Five Days In July"
Bob James - 'Dancing on the Water'
Bob James "Ivory Coast", "Double Vision"
Bobby McFerrin "Freedom is a Voice"
Boz Scaggs "Harbor Lights"
Bozzio, Levin, Stevens "Blacl Light Syndrome" (Duende)
Brandford Marsalis "I Heard You Twice The First Time"
Brian Bromberg "Wood", "WoodII"
Brian Wilson Surf's Up!
Carmen McRae - 'The Great American Songbook'
Cassandra Wilson "New Moon Daughter", "Blue Till Dawn'
Charlie HAden & Antonio Forcione "Heartplay"
Charlie Haden & John Taylor "Nightfall"
Chet Atkins "Sails"
Chris Issac 'Best of Chris Issac"
Chrisette Michele "I Am" (Your Joy)
Chucho Valdes "Live at the Village Vanguard","Bele Bele en La Habana"
Clark Terry "Live-Village Gate"
Clifford Jordan - 'Live at Ethell's'
Copland "Fanfare For the Comman Man" Louis Lane, and Atlanta Symphony Orchestra on Telarc
Count Basie "88 Basie Street" XRCD version
Count Basie "One O'Clock Jump"
Cowboy Junkies "Trinity Sessions"
Damien Rice "Live at Fingerprints Warts and All"
Dave & Don Grusin 'Sticks and Stones", "Migration"
Dave Brubeck "Time Out'
Dave Grusin "Discovered Again"
Dave Grusin 'Homage to Duke"
Dave Matthews Band Before These Crowded Streets (Crush)
David Benoit "Waiting for Spring" - Jazz (Some Other Sunset. My Romance)
David Finckel & Wu Han "Greig, Schumann & Chopin Music for Piano and Cello"
David Gray "White Ladder"
David Sandborn "Upfront"
Dead Can Dance "Boxed Set"
Dead Can Dance "'Toward the Within"
Dean Peer "Think" (Its All Good)
Diana Krall - 'The Girl in the Other Room'
Diana Krall "Live In Paris" (Lets Fall In Love)
Diana Krall "Love Scenes" (My Love Is)
Diana Krall 'The Very Best of Diana Krall"
Dire Straits "Brothers In Arms" XRCD
Don Cherry & Ed Blackwell "El Corazon"
Donald Fagen "Morph The Cat", "Kamakiriad"
Donald Fagen "Nightfly" Walk Between the Raindrops, The Goodbye Look, Ruby Baby
Duke Ellington "Masterpieces by Ellington"
Eberhard Weber "Endless Days"
Elanor McEvoy "Yola" (Isn't It A Little Late?)
Ella Fitzgerald - 'Clap Hands Here Comes Charlie'
Emiliana Torrini "Me and Armini"
Enigma "Love Sensuality Devotion: The Greatest Hits'
Eric Bibb "A Ship Called Home"
Eric Claptons "Back Home"
Esperanza Spalding "Esperanza CD" (Precious)
Eva Cassidy "Songbird" , "Live at Blues Alley"
Eva Cassidy "Time After Time", "Imagine'
Flim and The BB's "TriCycle", "Big Notes", "Tunnel"
Fred Hersch Trio - 'The Fred Hersch Trio Plays'
Getz & Byrd "Jazz Samba"
Getz/Gilberto (SACD) (The Girl From Ipanema)
Gladiator Soundtrack (The Battle)
Harry Allen "I Won't Dance" "Meets the John Pizzafelli Trio"
Holly Cole "It Happened One Night"
Holly Cole "The Best of Holly Cole"
Holly Cole's "Romantically Helpless" (One Trick Pony)
Hope Waits - 'Hope Waits'
Horace Silver "Song For My Father"
Hot Club of San Francisco "Yerba Buena Bounce"
Hugh Masekala "Hope"
Hugh Masekela "Burmester Reference III CD" (Stimela)
Ian Hunter "Artful Dodger'
Igor Stravinski "The Right of Spring"
Jacob Fred Jazz Odyssey 'Walking With Giants"
James Carter - 'Chasin' The Gypsy'
James Newton Howard "James Newtom Howard and Friends" - Jazz
Jane Monheit - 'Come Dream With Me'
Jazz at the Pawnshop - Various Artists
Jenna Mammina "Meant To Be', "Inner Smile"
Jennifer Warnes " The Hunter'
Jennifer Warnes "Famous Blue Raincoat"
Jethro Tull "Stand Up"
Jimmie Lee Robinson "All My Life" 
Joe Henderson "So Near, So Far (Musings for Miles"
Joe Jackson - any
Joe Satriani "The Electric Joe Satriani: An Anthology" (Rubina)
Johannes Brahms:Serenades Op.11 & Op.16 Gewandhaus Orchester Leipzig
Johannes Linstead "Guitarra Del Feugo"
John Coltrane "A Love Supreme"
John Horner "Glory Soundtrack"
John Lee Hooker "Chill Out"
John Mellencamp "Trouble No More"
Johnny Cash - 'American Recordings'
Jorma Kaukonen "Blue Country Heart"
Josh Groban "Closer"
Joshua Redman Quartet - 'Live at the Village Vanguard'
Joss Stone "Soul Sessions"
Keb' Mo' "Suitcase"
Kendra Shank - 'Afterglow'
Kim Pensyl "Sketches 1", 'Sketches 2", "Sketches 3"
Kirk Whalum "For You"
Kitaro-Cirque "Ingenieux"- New Age Electronic
Kraftwerk "Minimum-Maximum"
Kruder & Dorfmeister " K&D Session"
Larry Fuller Trio "Easy Walker"
Laurie Anderson "Life On A String"
Lenard Cohen "Ten New Songs"
Lenny Kravitz "Its Time For A Love Revolution" (This moment Is All There Is)
Leon Russell "Leon Russell" (A Song For You) A DCC gold disc mastered by Steve Hoffman
Linda Ronstadt "Round Midnight" Nelson Riddle Songs, 2 cd set
Linda Ronstadt & Nelson Riddle - 'What's New'
Little Carlie and the Night Cats "Disturbing the Peace"
Lyle Lovette "Joshua Judges Ruth"
Lyle Lovette "Step Inside This House"
Lyod Cole and the Commotions "Are You Ready To Be Heartbroken"
Madeleine Peyroux "Careless Love"
Madeline Peyroux "Bare Bones"
Manu Katche "Neighboorhood"
Mars - Dean Peter...
Massive Attack "Mezzanine"
McLaughlin, DiMeola, DeLucia "Friday Night Live in San Francisco"
Mephisto & Co., Reference Recording 82CD, Eiji Oue cond. Minnesota Orchestra.
Methany/Mehldau "Ring of Life"
Michael Garson "Serendipity"
Michael Stearns "The Lost World"
Mike Oldfield "Tubular Bells"
Miles Davis "Kind of Blue"
Miles Davis "The Complete Jack Johnson Sessions"
Mino Cinelu "Mino Cinelu" (Oncoming Horizons)
Misty River "Live at the Backstage Gate"
Moorcheeba "Big Calm"
Morphine "Cure for Pain" (Buena)
Mozart Alfred Brendel, Sir Charles Mackerras "Piano Concertos'
Muddy Water 'FOlk Singer"
Natalie Merchant's "Tigerlily" (Carnival,The Letter)
Neil Young "Live At Massey Hall 1971"
Nils Lofgren "Acoustic Live" (Keith Don't Go)
Nora Jones "Come Away With Me" (Cold, Cold Heart)
Oscar Peterson - 'Live at the Blue Note'
Oscar Peterson "Tracks'
Ottmar Liebert "Luna Negra"
Patricia Barber "A Fortnight in France"
Paul Simon "Graceland"
Paul Simon "Still Crazy After All These Years"
Peggy Lee "Black Coffee" (Black Coffee)
Peter Wolf "Sleepless"
Phil Roy "The Great Longing", "Grouchyfriendly"
Pink Floyd "Dark Sinde of the Moon" Dream Theater mix
Preston Reed "Instrument Landing"
Quincy Coleman "Come Closer" (Want Me Back)
Ray Brown "Some of My Best Friends Are Singers"
Ray Brown "Summer Wind "Live at the Loa"
Ray Brown- "Walk On"
Ray Brown/Laurindo Almeida - 'Moonlight Serenade'
Ray Charles "Genius Loves Company"
Rebecca Pidgeon "The Raven"
Rebecca Pidgeon "The Raven" (Spanish Harlem) (24/96 version)
Regina Spektor "Begin To Hope"
Rene Olstead "Skylark" (Nothing But the Blame"
Rhythm Devils "The Apocalypse Now Sessions" (Napalm for Breakfast)
Richard Elliott "Take It To the Skies"
Richard Souther "Cross Currents" New Age (Mary's Question and transition into High Tide)
Rickie Lee Jones - 'Pop Pop'
Rimsky-Korsakov "Dance of the Tumblers" Eiji Oue/Minnesota Orch
Rob Wasserman "Trios", "Duets" , "Space Island"
Robert Miles & Trilok Gurtu "Miles Gurtu"
Robert Plant / Allison Krauss "Raising Sand"
Roberta Flack "Quiet Fire" (Get Up Moses)
Rodger Waters "Amused To Death"
Rodrigo y Gabriela "Rodrigo y Gabriela"
Roland Kirk "Domino" (Domino,remastered)
Rolling Stones "Let It Bleed" SHM-CD
Ronan Hardiman "Anthem", "Solas"
Ronny Jordan "A Brighter Day"
Rosa Passos 'Romance"
Roy Gaines - 'I Got the T-Bone Walker Blues'
Roy Hargrove "Moment to Momnet, "Ear Food"
Royksopp "Melody A.M."
Rusted Root "When I Woke" (Cat Turned Blue, Laugh As The Sun)
Ry Cooder "Buena Vista Social Club"
Ry Cooder "Paradise and Lunch"
Sarah McLachlan "Surfacing" (Angel)
Seal "Best 1991-2004" 2 CD Set
Shawn Colvin "Steady On"
Sheryl Crowe "The Best of Sheryl Crowe"
Shirley Horn "Hers to Life" (Return to Paradise)
SMV "Thunder"
Sonny Rollins "Saxophone Colossus"
Soul Coughing "Irrestible Bliss"
Spyrogyra "Off the Deep End"
Stanley Turrentine "Stan the Man" SHM-CD
Steely Dan "Aja"
Steely Dan "The Royal Scam" (Kid Charlemagne)
Steely Dan "Two Against Nature"
Steve Bach "More Than A Dream"
Steve Davis Project
Steve Turre "TNT","Sanctified Shells","In the Spur of the Moment"
Sting "Mercury Falling" (I Was Brought to my Senses)
Strauss: Don Juan" HDCD Eiji Oue
Stravinsky "Firebird Suite" Eiji Oue Minnesota Orch
Taj Mahal "Shoutin in Key", "Senor Blues"
Tangerine Dream "Force Majeure", "Richochet", "Stratosfear", "Attic Thoughts"
Tears For Fears "The Hurting" Mercury Reissue
The Bad Plus "These Are the Vistas" (Keep the Bugs Off Your Glass And The Bears Off Your Ass)
The Benny Green Trio - "Testifyin'" 'Live at the Village Vanguard
The Count Basie Orchestra - 'Live at EL Morocco'
The Flock "Dinosaur Swamps"
The Ray Brown Trio - 'Live at Kuumbwa'
The Who "Tommy" Mobile Fidelity Version
Thelma Houston "I've Got the Music In Me"
Three Mo'Tenors
Tommy Emmanuel - "Center Stage"
Tony Bennett "There's a Small Hotel" (Rogers and Hart Songbook)
Tony Corbiscello "Real Time" (As If We Never Said Goodbye)...  Big Band (Top shelf trumpet playing)
Tracy Thorn "Out of the Woods"
Trittico, Reference Recording 52CD, Frederick Fennel cond. Dallas Wind Ensemble
Uberzone "Ideology"
Uncle Tupelo
Victor Feldman - 'Audiophile'
Vienna Tang "Waking Hour"
Virgil Thompson "The Plow That Broke the Plains and The River"
Vivaldi: La Stravaganza - Podger/Arte Dei Suonatori
Weather Report "Sportin' Life" (Confians)
Wilco's "Being There" (Sunken Treasure)
Willie Nelson and Wynton Marsalis "Two Men With the Blues" (concert) 
Wynton Marsalis "Standard Time Volume 2"
Wynton Marsalis "The Magic Hour" (Feeling of Jazz)
Wynton Marsalis Septet - 'Live at the Village Vanguard'
Yasushi Akutagawa "Ellora Symphony, Trinita Sinfonica & Rhapsody"
Yello "Baby"
ZZ Top "Tres Hombres" (La Grange)


And there it is thru page 52 ending with Robert Plant and my girl AK :thumb:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 27 Jul 2011, 12:14 pm
hey fishnbob!!

So nice of you to remind us all of the great stuff we all have listed thru the past year etc....

I got a new "Feist" cd but havent listened to it yet...

back to work!

All the best
Alex
 :D
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: fishinbob on 27 Jul 2011, 09:46 pm
Somehow these were missed :oops: My apologies.

"International Guitar Night II"(Mapleshade Label)
Al Dimeola "Elegant Gypsy" & "Kiss My Axe"
Al Jarreau "All I Got"
Al Kooper "Rekooperation"
Alex De Grassi "De Man la"
Allen Toussaint's "Bright Mississippi"
Allison Krauss "A Hundred Miles or More:A Collection"
Andreas Kapsalis and Goran Ivanovic "Guitar Duo"
Andy McKee "Sound Roots" and "Next"
Bee Fee's "Saturday Night Fever"
Ben Harper "Both Sides of the Gun"
Ben Harper & The Blind Boys of Alabama "There Will Be A Light"
Beth Orton's "Central Reservation"
Bill Evans "Sunday at the Village Vanguard"
Bill Evans "Waltz for Debbie"
Bill Withers "Greatest Hits"
Bill Withers "Lean On Me - The Best of Bill Withers"
Bob Marley "Legand"
Bobby McFerrin "VOCAbularies"
Boz Scagg's "Silk"
Bruce Katz Band "A Deeper Blue"
Byron Metcalf's " Wachuma's Wave"
Cat Power "Jukebox' and "You Are Free"
Celtic Women "Essential Collection"
Chet Atkins & Tommy Emmanuel "The Day Finger Pickers Took Over The World"
Chris Rea's 'Road to Hell"
Clifford Jordan Quartet "Live At Ethells"
Corine Bailey Rae "Corine Bailey Rae"
Cowboy Junkies "200 Miles"
Crimson Jazz Trio "King Crimson Songbook"
Darol Anger "Heritage"
Dave Chesky "Club de Sol"
David Elias "Crossing"
David Lindley & Hani Naser "Official Bootleg #2" and "Live In Tokyo"
Dido "Life For Rent"
Dido's "Life For Rent"
Dido's "No Angel"
Dido's "Safe Trip Home"
Doreen Smith "In the Still of the Night"A tribute to Julie London
Edvard Greig "Peer Gynt Suites"
Eleni Mandell "Miracle of Five"
Emil Gilels "Beethoven: Sonaten - Pathétique & Mondschein"
Enigma "Le Roi Est Mort, Vive Le Roi!"
Enya "The Memory of Trees"
Eric Clapton BB-King "Riding"
Erin Moran "A Girl Called Eddy"
Erykah Badu "Baduizm"
Eva Cassidy "Live at Blues Alley"
Fourplay "Energy"
Fourplay "In Between the Sheets"
Gary Burton & Friends "Departure"
George Winston "December'
Gordon Goodwin "Property of Gordon Goodwins Big Phat Band XXL" and :Swingin for the Fences"
Gustav Mahler, et al
Helen Humes "Songs I Like to Sing"
Holly Cole 'Temptation"
Houston Perry "The Party"
Jack McDuff "Down Home Style"
Jake Shimabukuro "Gently Weeps"
James Taylor "October Road"
Jamie Cullum's "Catching Tales"
Janine Jansen "The Four Seasons"
Janis Ian's "Breaking Silence"
Jim Brock "Tropic Affair" and "The Equator"
Jim Brock "Tropical Affair"
Jimi Hendrix "Valley of Neptune"
Joan Armatrading's "Joan Armatrading"
Joe Beard / Ronnie Earl "Blues Union"
Johnny Cash "American - IV Man Comes Around"
Jorma Kaukonen's "River of Time"
Joshua Bell "At Home With Friends"
Katatonia "The Great Cold Distance"
Kelly Sweet's "We Are One"
Kenny Burrell "Midnight Blue"
Kenny Rankin "A Song For You"
Koop "Koop Islands" and " Waltz for Koop"
Kruder & Dorfmeister "The K&D Sessions"
Larry Coryell's "Visions In Blue"
Laurie Anderson "Life On A String"
Lee Ritenour "Color Rit"
Lee Ritenour "Smoke and Mirrors"
Les Hommes "Les Hommes"
Little Feet's "Waiting for Columbus"
Lugi Boccherini "Fandango-Sinfonie Musica-Nocturna"
Lyambiko "Out Of This Mood"
Madeski Martin & Wood "Combustication"
Mahler: Symphony No. 3 (hybrid SACD)
Manhattan Jazz Quintet "Autumn Leaves"
Manhattan Jazz Quintet "My Funny Valentine"
Maria Joao Pires "Chopin The Nocturnes'
Markr Knofler & Emmylou Harris "All the Roadrunning"
Martin Denny "The Best of Martin Denny's Exotica"
Martin Taylor "Gypsy Journey"
Martin Taylor "Tapestry" SACD
Masanga "Mas"
Mcoy Tyner's "Infinity"
MGMT "Oracular Spectacular"
Michael Buble's "Michael Buble"
Mike Garson "Oxnard Sessions Vol 2" and "Serendipity"
Mikey Hart "Global Drum Project"
Mingus's "Blues and Roots"
Natalie Cole "Ask A Woman Who Knows"
Nelson Freire "Chopin The Nocturnes"
Nicola Conte "Jet Sounds"
Nina Natasia "Dogs"
Oscar Peterson's "Tracks"
Oscar Peterson's "We Get Requests"
Pat Methany "Still Life"
Pat Metheny "New Chautauqua"
Peter Townsend/Ronnie Lane "Rough Mix"
Plumb "Chaotic Reserve"
Puccini: Madame Butterfly - Leinsdorf
Quincy Coleman's "Also Known As Mary"
Qunicy Coleman's "Come Closer'
Ray LaMontagne's "Till The Sun Turns Black"
Richie Haven's "Mixed Bag'
Robert Plant "Band of Joy"
Roland Olazabel "tomcats Outside Screaming"
Rosemary Clooney's "At Long Last"
Ry Cooder "Crossroads Soundtrack"
Safri Duo "Epsisode II"
Sara K & Chris Jones "Are We There Yet?"
Shaham/Sollcher "Paganini for Two"
Sir Adrian Boult "Holst The Planets"
Stan Getz & Charlie Byrd "Jazz Samba"
Sting "Brand New Day" and "Field of Dreams" and "10 Summoners Tales"
The Black Keys "Brothers"
The Ditty Bops "The Ditty"
The Gregory James Quartet "Samara"
Tom Jones "Praise & Blame"
Tommy Emmanuel "CGP Live"
Tool's "Lateralus"
Tracy Thorn "Out Of the Woods"
Two Siberians "Out of Nowhere"
Vivaldi: La Stravaganza - Podger/Arte Dei Suonatori
Walter Hyatt "King Tears"
Willie Nelson "Milk Cow Blues"
Wynton Marsalis "Standard Time"
XX "XX"


Happy listening

-Bob


Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 30 Jul 2011, 02:38 pm
Ok..here is a good new discovery to me...

Josefine Cronhom - Wild Garden

Wondeful!

http://www.amazon.com/Wild-Garden-Josefine-Cronholm/dp/B000063DX1/ref=sr_1_7?ie=UTF8&qid=1312036562&sr=8-7



All the Best
Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Kinger on 31 Jul 2011, 12:36 am
Anyone know which version of Jennifer Warnes Famous Blue Raincoat is the best one to get?  Is it this one?  http://www.amazon.com/Famous-Blue-Raincoat-20th-Anniversary/dp/B000OPO6WY/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1312072495&sr=8-1

OR

http://www.amazon.com/Famous-Blue-Raincoat-Karat-Gold/dp/B0043JJ55K/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1312072495&sr=8-4
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 31 Jul 2011, 02:18 am
Hi,

I have the first one..and its very good.

I think the second one is the same execpt on the gold cd....many claims for being better, but I really doubt that...

But that said it wouldnt hurt if you can afford it...and it will probably turn into an investment!!

Alex
 :D
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Ronm1 on 31 Jul 2011, 09:44 am
Sonic wise , you wont be disappointed in either...
All her recordings are well done in my book...
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: fishinbob on 31 Jul 2011, 01:04 pm
I have both, but bought this one for the cut referenced for use with the "Master Set" method of speaker placement that wasn't on the original.
 
http://www.amazon.com/Famous-Blue-Raincoat-20th-Anniversary/dp/B000OPO6WY/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1312072495&sr=8-1
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 31 Jul 2011, 03:30 pm
Just looked at mine it has 9 songs, no 24 page booklet...the gold cd has 13 songs....

Alex
 8)
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Don_S on 31 Jul 2011, 04:32 pm
Amazon has an incorrect track listing for the first link (not the gold one). The 20th Anniversary Reissue has 13 tracks.  To be clear, the tracks are the same on both disks. Each has bonus tracks compared to the original. Each has the 24-page booklet.   The decision boils down to sound quality and price.


Anyone know which version of Jennifer Warnes Famous Blue Raincoat is the best one to get?  Is it this one?  http://www.amazon.com/Famous-Blue-Raincoat-20th-Anniversary/dp/B000OPO6WY/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1312072495&sr=8-1

OR

http://www.amazon.com/Famous-Blue-Raincoat-Karat-Gold/dp/B0043JJ55K/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1312072495&sr=8-4
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: shawbros3 on 10 Sep 2011, 03:53 am
If you guys like Spanish guitar music, check out Rodrigo and Gabriela.  This duo really jams and their music shines through my Songtowers...
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 12 Sep 2011, 12:45 am
shawbros3,

Thanks for the recommendation!!

Much Appreciated!!

I will take a listen!

All the best
Alex
 :D
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: baxtr on 14 Sep 2011, 02:17 am
Take a listen to "The National", High Violet and "Bon Iver" they are both very layered recordings that will show off the range of your Salk speakers.  It's like throwing a fast ball at your speakers, but the Salk's handle it well. Bad speakers will fail and sound muddy.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B003BKF696/

http://www.amazon.com/Bon-Iver/dp/B004XE0P5E/
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: lonewolfny42 on 15 Sep 2011, 05:16 am
Alex....

I was "poking around" ...in some of my older stuff on Cd....this still sounds very good...check it out.. :thumb:

Van Morrison - "Too Long In Exile"

(http://images.uulyrics.com/cover/v/van-morrison/album-too-long-in-exile.jpg)

Samples....

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A9gRbpe7LUU&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=88pJ6WerTiQ&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lbIlXz1neik

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8kZ5WnwJ59Q&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dZt5fRW-ICQ&feature=related


WARNING.... ...after you listen....you'll be thinking and humming these songs all day... 8) :lol:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 16 Sep 2011, 06:19 pm
Hey Chris!!

Just took a listen and so kool!

Thanks much for the recommendation......

Hope things are well with you!

Alex

All the best!!
 :D
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: lonewolfny42 on 19 Sep 2011, 02:02 am
All is well Alex....thanks! :thumb:

Got another for you....

Over the weekend I attended the Long Beach (NY) Jazz Fest.... (http://www.longbeachjazzfest.com/schedule.php)...some great music. :thumb:

A standout for me (they were smokin') was the Trio of Oz....Improvisational Jazz trio....featuring Rachel Z (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rachel_Z) and Omar Hakim (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Omar_Hakim)

A little live taste... :D

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a0fAq6S2bfU



Their album..."Trio Of Oz"....is outstanding.

(http://images.cdbaby.name/t/r/trioofoz.jpg)

You'll find it on CD Baby.... (http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/trioofoz)...enjoy. :beer:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: OgOgilby on 19 Sep 2011, 02:26 pm
Here are two that should be listed. I haven't heard "Blue Chamber Quartet, First Impressions" mentioned below, but the these two are great.

Steve Strauss "Just Like Love" Stockfisch Records Hybrid SACD

(http://www.elusivedisc.com/images/sfsam362.jpg)

Sara K "Hell or High Water" Stockfisch Records XRCD

(http://www.elusivedisc.com/images/sfsxr5039.jpg)


From TAS - Well Worth Hearing: Multichannel SACDs from Stockfisch - Chris Martens -- 05/29/2008

"Like most A/V journalists, I have favorite music discs I like to take to trade shows, partly to have high-quality reference materials on hand, but also to have good "show-and-tell" offerings for the back-and-forth musical exchanges that make good audio shows so much fun. Three discs I own that have consistently "wowed" listeners at CES, Rocky Mountain Audio Fest, and other shows happen to be multichannel SACDs that were produced by Gunther Pauler (of Pauler Acoustics) for the German label Stockfisch.

The discs are:

Sara K, Hell or High Water
Steve Strauss, Just Like Love
Blue Chamber Quartet, First Impressions

In all three cases, Pauler creates vibrant recordings full of rich tonal colors and textures, all of them set within huge, 3D acoustic spaces. But most of all, these records are just plain fun (and intensely engaging) to listen to. On more than a few occasions I've played tracks from these records in demo rooms, only to have listeners on hand demand to hear the tracks over again. I think that speaks well for the records' ability to win hearts and minds."


http://www.elusivedisc.com/prodinfo.asp?number=SFSAM4036 (http://www.elusivedisc.com/prodinfo.asp?number=SFSAM4036)
 
http://www.amazon.com/Hell-High-Water-Sara-K/dp/B000EQINQS/ref=sr_1_2?s=music&ie=UTF8&qid=1316635640&sr=1-2 (http://www.amazon.com/Hell-High-Water-Sara-K/dp/B000EQINQS/ref=sr_1_2?s=music&ie=UTF8&qid=1316635640&sr=1-2)


Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 4 Oct 2011, 02:45 pm
Lauring Marling is a new vocalist I discovered and I got several of here cd's this one is really nice sonically:

"Alas-I-Cannot-Swim"

http://www.amazon.com/Alas-I-Cannot-Swim-Dig/dp/B001BGTWNI/ref=sr_1_7?ie=UTF8&qid=1317739383&sr=8-7

All the best
Alex
 :D
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 31 Oct 2011, 01:14 am
Just listened to this:

Kirk Whalums "For You".

This is a 5 start cd and it was really outstanding!!

GET IT !!

http://www.amazon.com/You-Kirk-Whalum/dp/B00000DD5A/ref=sr_1_2?s=music&ie=UTF8&qid=1320023565&sr=1-2

All the Best
Alex
 :D
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 8 Dec 2011, 01:06 am
Boy the activity on this thread has reallly slowed down?

Anybody got any new stuff, old stuff or different stuff??

 :lol:

I was listening to Bill Withers and Ben Harper last night and was once again enthralled in the quality of these discs and artists...simply wonderful talent.

The Bill Wither cd was released and remastered:

http://www.amazon.com/Best-Bill-Withers-Lean-Me/dp/B00004THKR/ref=sr_1_1?s=music&ie=UTF8&qid=1323306211&sr=1-1

This great cd can be had for $3.86!!! A real no-brainer.

There is another Bill Withers disc I just ordered that is a live recording that has several reviews that simply state that this cd is the best live cd ever:

http://www.amazon.com/Live-Carnegie-Hall-Bill-Withers/dp/B0012GMV1M/ref=sr_1_2?s=music&ie=UTF8&qid=1323306211&sr=1-2

Anybody listen to this one and can comment?

I will when it arrives in a few days!

Merry Christmas!!

Alex

 :thumb:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: lonewolfny42 on 8 Dec 2011, 03:38 am
Hello Alex... :beer:

Quote
Boy the activity on this thread has reallly slowed down?

Maybe their all X'mas shopping.... :lol:



OK....new(er)....and old....

Good stuff from Beth Hart and Joe Bonamassa....it rocks....and sounds good... 8)

(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/611qYv65pNL._SS500_.jpg)

Samples... (http://www.amazon.com/Dont-Explain/dp/B005MW68RK/ref=tmm_msc_title_0)

I used track 3 "Your Heart Is As Black As Night" as my demo for RMAF 2011...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2egMG4uFd8A


Some excellent Jazz....from Chick Corea, Stanley Clarke, Lenny White..."Forever" 8)

(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/61OCaTQO9hL._SS500_.jpg)

Samples... (http://www.amazon.com/Forever/dp/B0053ZCPR8/ref=tmm_msc_title_0)...released in June '11.



And old fav.. live from Brooklyn...at St. Anne's Church....released in 1990....
Marianne Faithfull......"Blazing Away".

(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/510K4Q5CGEL._SS500_.jpg)

Samples... (http://www.amazon.com/Blazing-Away-Live-Marianne-Faithfull/dp/B000001FVB/ref=sr_1_11?s=music&ie=UTF8&qid=1323313148&sr=1-11)

On YouTube...."Guilt"...track 3... http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1rLSF9BZM8s


Check them out.... :thumb:


And the Bill Withers Live....good stuff. :thumb:



Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: scp2 on 8 Dec 2011, 03:41 am
Gotta love Bill Withers..

Here is a Techno female vocal some may like..nice recording


Morcheeba


http://www.amazon.com/gp/recsradio/radio/B000003MWY/ref=pd_krex_dp_a
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 8 Dec 2011, 10:26 pm
Hi Chris,

 :beer:

Thanks for the Beth Hart recommendation I do have one of her cds.
I will get it on order for sure!!

Marianne Faithful....wow dont have any of her in my collection.

scp2...thanks for your recommendation as well!!!

Ok guys keep them coming need to stuff the stocking for Christmas!!

Great Listening to All!

Alex
 :lol:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: charmerci on 9 Jan 2012, 07:02 pm
Van Morrison - What's Wrong With This Picture?

Joni Mitchell - Don Juan's Reckless Daughter
There are a few very strange songs on there but most are nice if you're not too much into avant-garde songs. With Jaco Pastorius on bass and John Guerin on drums how can you go wrong?
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 9 Jan 2012, 07:15 pm
charmerci....

Many thanks for the recommendations.....I was wondering if we were finally running out of outstanding cds!!

I am a Joni Mitchell fan from the 'old' days for sure.....

I really like the Miles of Aisles CD:
http://www.amazon.com/Miles-Aisles-Joni-Mitchell/dp/B000002GWN/ref=sr_1_sc_11?ie=UTF8&qid=1326136263&sr=8-11-spell

I have all of the dvd's etc that I can find out there....brings back fond memories of a time gone by...

Just ordered the Don Juan's Reckless Daughter cd...!

All the best
Alex!
 :D
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: charmerci on 10 Jan 2012, 05:06 am
You can thank my local library for having them.  :thumb:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 10 Jan 2012, 06:10 pm
I sure wish our library here would have cd's...went there and they dont do this... :bawl:

Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: charmerci on 13 Jan 2012, 01:16 am
I completely forgot about Shirley Horn - You Won't Forget Me

Very mellow, mainstream jazz. She was one of the very under-rated jazz pianist of all time.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: timind on 13 Jan 2012, 02:09 am

I haven't viewed every page but I doubt it's on the list. If not, get a copy of this. Great music with sonics to match.

(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/61V2RA13THL._SS500_.jpg)

These Times We're Living In - A Red House Anthology
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: charmerci on 13 Jan 2012, 04:21 am
timind,

On pg. 57, there are two posts with two alphabetical lists of everything.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 24 Jan 2012, 04:23 pm
Finally got :

Don Juan's Reckless Daughter , Joni Mitchell, very well recorded...sounds great.
Its amazing how Joni Mitchell plays a guitar...like nobody else.....

Thanks for the recommendation!

All the best
Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: murf on 27 Jan 2012, 05:23 pm
Hello Audio Experts!
  These are a couple of CDs that I think have great SQ, and the music is awful nice too:

HOT TUNA "Hot Tuna" This is a live album recorded at the New Orleans House in Berkley.  Jorma & Jack Cassidy are in sync & smokin' (no pun intended), and the harmonica playing by Will Scarlett just floats.
BJORK "Debut"  This album spans from Euro-techno to unaccompanied harp.  They seem to be having lots of fun with the sound production.

Murf   8)
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 27 Jan 2012, 06:35 pm
Hi Murf!!

Thanks for the recommendations!!

I will take a look for sure!!

All the best
Alex
 :D
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Saturn94 on 7 Feb 2012, 01:20 am
I pulled out an old Telarc CD that I hadn't heard for some time and was quite impressed.  It's the Rite of Spring, performed by the Cleveland Orchestra, Lorin Maazel conducting.

Looks like it's still available:

http://www.amazon.com/Stravinsky-Rite-Spring-Igor/dp/B0000251LY/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1328576447&sr=8-5

I also noticed it's been transfered to SACD as well:

http://www.amazon.com/Stravinsky-Rite-Spring-Tchaikovsky-Symphony/dp/B00005QZLB/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1328576447&sr=8-3
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 20 Feb 2012, 10:50 pm
We are less than 7,000 hits away from the 100,000 read mark...I wonder who will be the 100,000 viewer?? Hmmmm

Alex

 :o  :lol:  :icon_lol:  :roll:  :wink:  :thumb:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: taoggniklat on 25 Feb 2012, 06:01 am
We are less than 7,000 hits away from the 100,000 read mark...I wonder who will be the 100,000 viewer?? Hmmmm

Alex

 :o  :lol:  :icon_lol:  :roll:  :wink:  :thumb:



A free pair of ST's perhaps! *dreaming*
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: mathgeek97 on 27 Feb 2012, 03:36 pm
I searched this thread and didn't find this one, so please forgive if it's a repeat, and please forgive me for adding yet another Diana Krall album to the list! :)

Diana Krall - When I Look in Your Eyes (1999, Verve Records)


(http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/a/a1/Diana_Krall_-_When_I_Look_in_Your_Eyes.jpg)


Vocals and instrumentation show off the nicely detailed mid-range my pair of Salk's can produce.
And, heck, it did win two Grammys (Best Jazz Vocal, Best Engineering) and was also nominated for Album of the Year (Santana - Supernatural won the Grammy).
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 27 Feb 2012, 03:58 pm
Great choice, I have the SACD version of this one as well.
Thanks for the selection....

I have front row seats to see Krall perform in March!!

All the best
Alex
 :D
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: schubert on 27 Feb 2012, 04:27 pm
The classical genre seems underrepresented here, so I'll try to remedy that.  My first recommendation:  piano is very difficult to reproduce well, and this recording has two of them- along with some percussion to test the subwoofer.  Repertoire is unusual, sonics are state of the 16-bit art and the performances are wonderful......so it's Stravinsky's Rite of Spring and Bartok's Sonata for Two Pianos and Percussion by Duo d'Accord and the Eardrum Percussion Duo on Genuin.

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=58653)
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Frans on 1 Mar 2012, 09:50 pm
I didn't see anybody mention Steven Wilson's superb BluRay-Audio disc "Grace for Drowning (http://www.amazon.com/Grace-Drowning-Steven-Wilson/dp/B005EXA8LY/ref=mb_oe_o)." It's a true Reference Quality full HD resolution recording natively conceived for 5.1 Surround.

I know this is not a CD, but we are talking kick-ass audio for demos right? There are a handful of other BluRay Audio CDs out there, such as Rush "Moving Pictures" and Tom Petty "Damn the Torpedoes." Also mighty fine examples, but not originally conceived for the format.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 2 Mar 2012, 05:43 pm
Hi Frans,

Thanks for the recommendation....there is a place for Blu Ray stuff as well.

http://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=77085.0

I have several multi-channel dvds , hd dvd and blu-rays my self...and most are really neat in there own way...

But this is a 2 ch red book old school thread....

All the best!

Alex
 :D

Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Frans on 3 Mar 2012, 01:18 am
Aha, well, there is also a 2 channel audio CD available and it's also system demo quality. It's just that when you have something even more mindblowing available that you reach for that! :-)

On the redbook CD front I really like the moody sounds of Depeche Mode's Violator. Especially "Personal Jesus" is a nice workout for the speakers. I have a first-run of Dire Straits "Love Over Gold" that is the most analog sounding CD I have - it's just stunningly warm. When they "remastered" it they stripped all the warmth that made it great. Still an excellent CD I'm sure, but not when you compare it to the original CD that was released in 1982.

More recently I really like the CD track "Marty and the Magic Moose" by DeeExpus off "The King of Number 33 (http://www.marillion.com/music/solo/king.htm)." Just a kicking tune that make your speakers sound great!


(http://www.marillion.com/images/covers/solo/DeeExpus.jpg)


Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Saturn94 on 3 Mar 2012, 05:36 pm
...............More recently I really like the CD track "Marty and the Magic Moose" by DeeExpus off "The King of Number 33 (http://www.marillion.com/music/solo/king.htm)." Just a kicking tune that make your speakers sound great!


(http://www.marillion.com/images/covers/solo/DeeExpus.jpg)

There's some cool stuff on that site.  Thanks for the recommendation. :)
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: lonewolfny42 on 3 Mar 2012, 07:28 pm
Digging thru my Cd's again Alex....good one here.....not mentioned...but well worth owning....it's "Simply Grand". :thumb:

(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51UrTMpXEKL._SS500_.jpg)

Irma Thomas - "Simply Grand" (http://www.amazon.com/Simply-Grand-Irma-Thomas/dp/B001APM458/ref=sr_1_1?s=music&ie=UTF8&qid=1330801615&sr=1-1)

" I Think It's Going to Rain Today " (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2-kq_2X1e1M)

"River Is Waiting" (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sqWQCoXGy20)

http://www.allmusic.com/album/simply-grand-r1400239/review


Enjoy..... :beer:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: J Fallows on 4 Mar 2012, 12:05 am
Listened to the samples.
What great music, Thanks
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Art_Chicago on 4 Mar 2012, 09:20 pm
I didn't see anybody mention Steven Wilson's superb BluRay-Audio disc "Grace for Drowning (http://www.amazon.com/Grace-Drowning-Steven-Wilson/dp/B005EXA8LY/ref=mb_oe_o)." It's a true Reference Quality full HD resolution recording natively conceived for 5.1 Surround.

I know this is not a CD, but we are talking kick-ass audio for demos right? There are a handful of other BluRay Audio CDs out there, such as Rush "Moving Pictures" and Tom Petty "Damn the Torpedoes." Also mighty fine examples, but not originally conceived for the format.

Frans
Excellent suggestion! I just picked up a CD version from the local library. Great stuff, no compression et all. Music reminds me of King Crimson to some extent ( I understand that he was part of their more recent recordings).
Thanks
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Chromisdesigns on 4 Mar 2012, 09:56 pm
I like the Telarc Mazel/Cleveland recording of Night on Bald Mountain and Pictures at an Exhibiton.

http://www.amazon.com/Moussorgsky-Night-Mountain-Pictures-Exhibition/dp/B000003CSH

Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Saturn94 on 4 Mar 2012, 10:08 pm
I like the Telarc Mazel/Cleveland recording of Night on Bald Mountain and Pictures at an Exhibiton.

http://www.amazon.com/Moussorgsky-Night-Mountain-Pictures-Exhibition/dp/B000003CSH

+1

I've owned that recording since it was released on vinyl (later bought the CD) many, many years ago. :thumb:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: baxtr on 7 Mar 2012, 03:10 am
I just picked up the new Andrew Bird: Break it Yourself.  I think it is is the best CD I have heard on my HT2-TL speakers so far. The RAAL tweeter just sounds amazing with this disc.

http://www.guardian.co.uk/music/2012/mar/01/andrew-bird-break-yourself-review
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Austin08 on 7 Mar 2012, 04:27 am
Man, this thread has all the good stuff. Here are my 2cts. These are some of my favorite old red book cd in addition to the list.

 Hayley Westenra - Celtic Treasure for vocal. Her voice is beautiful.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B000MTDRJA/ref=mp_s_a_2?qid=1331093735&sr=8-2

Ana Caram - Blue Bossa. When you need a little quite jazz momment.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/cr/B00005Q46M/ref=aw_d_cr_music?qid=1331093887&sr=8-5
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Austin08 on 7 Mar 2012, 07:45 am
Here is another good one

Eden Atwood: Waves, Bosa Nova section

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00006AFJB/ref=mp_s_a_7?qid=1331106082&sr=8-7-spell
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Saturn94 on 12 Mar 2012, 02:22 am
"American Adagios" on the Telarc label.

http://www.amazon.com/American-Adagios-Samuel-Barber/dp/B000009RCU/ref=sr_1_1?s=music&ie=UTF8&qid=1331518714&sr=1-1

Track 9 is especially beautiful!  It's a choral piece based on Barber's "Adagio for Strings".
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: WGH on 19 Mar 2012, 04:33 pm
Alternesia was mentioned in a recent Stereophile review so I had to check it out. Jon Iverson plays his compositions on Indonesian Gamelan instruments. The album has a clarity that most recordings lack because it was recorded A-D with no intermediate mixing deck.

(http://www.alternesia.com/frontcover450.jpg)


The music swells and fills the room with interesting and complex rhythms played on traditional Gamelan instruments like the a ugal (photo below), a large gong, the ceng ceng, smaller gongs and cymbals of various sizes; a small selection of wooden suling, or flutes; a set of bamboo angklung (tuned bamboo rattles); several large bamboo jegogan (bamboo xylophone); a wooden kendang drum; several small hand drums; and a bamboo genggong (similar to a Jew's harp), and more. The bass is deep and humungous.

(http://www.alternesia.com/gangsa.jpg)

From the website:

"Created, Recorded and Produced by Jon Iverson at the remote Dog Bark Recording Camp in California. Everything you hear are actual instruments recorded directly one at a time (no mixing board) to a specially modified MCI JH100 2" 16 track analog recorder. With the exception of a wee bit of sampled bass in just a couple of tiny spots, there were no sequencers, synthesizers or fancy computer editors used—all was multitracked in person with microphones.

Mastering accomplished by Robert Rich at Soundscape. Robert Rich also played the Bamboo Flute on track 7. All other instruments coaxed to life and banged on by Jon Iverson."

The album is available as a free download in .flac, aiff, and .wav formats at the Alternesia website:
http://www.alternesia.com/ (http://www.alternesia.com/)

Wayne

 
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: lonewolfny42 on 21 Mar 2012, 05:40 am
Thanks for the download link Wayne.... :thumb:

History... (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c1AiCTJ9t8g)
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Saturn94 on 21 Mar 2012, 02:27 pm
Alternesia was mentioned in a recent Stereophile review so I had to check it out. Jon Iverson plays his compositions on Indonesian Gamelan instruments. The album has a clarity that most recordings lack because it was recorded A-D with no intermediate mixing deck.

(http://www.alternesia.com/frontcover450.jpg)


The music swells and fills the room with interesting and complex rhythms played on traditional Gamelan instruments like the a ugal (photo below), a large gong, the ceng ceng, smaller gongs and cymbals of various sizes; a small selection of wooden suling, or flutes; a set of bamboo angklung (tuned bamboo rattles); several large bamboo jegogan (bamboo xylophone); a wooden kendang drum; several small hand drums; and a bamboo genggong (similar to a Jew's harp), and more. The bass is deep and humungous.

(http://www.alternesia.com/gangsa.jpg)

From the website:

"Created, Recorded and Produced by Jon Iverson at the remote Dog Bark Recording Camp in California. Everything you hear are actual instruments recorded directly one at a time (no mixing board) to a specially modified MCI JH100 2" 16 track analog recorder. With the exception of a wee bit of sampled bass in just a couple of tiny spots, there were no sequencers, synthesizers or fancy computer editors used—all was multitracked in person with microphones.

Mastering accomplished by Robert Rich at Soundscape. Robert Rich also played the Bamboo Flute on track 7. All other instruments coaxed to life and banged on by Jon Iverson."

The album is available as a free download in .flac, aiff, and .wav formats at the Alternesia website:
http://www.alternesia.com/ (http://www.alternesia.com/)

Wayne

 

Thanks for the link.  I downloaded it last night and hope to see how it sounds on my HT2-TLs later this week.


Update: Listened to it last night....sounds great!  Thanks.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: WGH on 21 Mar 2012, 02:55 pm
.... hope to see how it sounds on my HT2-TLs later this week.

Remember to buckle your seat belt so you're not knocked out of your chair when the bass come in.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: rick_reynolds40 on 21 Mar 2012, 03:01 pm
Hey guys, just wanted to share an album that I have been listening to lately.

Chris Taylor's latest...Nocturnal

http://www.amazon.com/Nocturnal-Chris-Taylor/dp/B004RQ3F0A/ref=sr_1_1?s=music&ie=UTF8&qid=1332341710&sr=1-1

Chris Taylor is pretty amazing.  The first review on Amazon pretty much nails it.

Sounds AMAZING on my ST-RT's

Cheers

Rick
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Frans on 23 Mar 2012, 02:58 am
The album is available as a free download in .flac, aiff, and .wav formats at the Alternesia website:
http://www.alternesia.com/ (http://www.alternesia.com/)

Good call, it sounds exquisite!
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 23 Mar 2012, 02:39 pm
Hey Guys! (and Gals!)...

Been really busy with life, but glad to see the latest recommendations!

We are approaching 100,000 views!!!

Keep those recommendations coming in!!

All the best
Alex!
 :D
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: murf on 27 Mar 2012, 04:53 pm
Hello Audio Experts!
  I don't think this album has been mentioned:

HERBIE HANCOCK  "River: The Joni Letters"

Excellent SQ & production, and it won a Grammy.  Check out the guest list:
Wayne Shorter
Dave Holland
Norah Jones
Tina Turner
Joni Mitchell
Leonard Cohen
& more!

Happy Listening,  Murf   8)
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: lonewolfny42 on 29 Mar 2012, 08:17 am
Quote
Keep those recommendations coming in!!

Another for you Alex..... :thumb:

Rodrigo y Gabriela and C.U.B.A. - "Area 52"

(http://www.mxdwn.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/rodrigo-y-gabriela-area-52-580x580.jpg)

Samples... (http://www.amazon.com/Area-52-Rodrigo-Gabriela-C-U-B/dp/B006A9XSOK)

Story... (http://www.npr.org/2012/01/15/144962952/first-listen-rodrigo-y-gabriela-area-52)

Trailer... (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LBBM-02joFU)

Track 9 - "Tamacun"....a good workout... (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1Q6wvksExc8) :wink:

Enjoy.... :beer:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 29 Mar 2012, 02:28 pm
Thanks Murf for the recommendation I will check this one out for sure.

Hey Chris! Area 52...hmmm looks a little red to me.....LOL....will take a listen as well and
thanks. Hope all is well with you and yours!

Its getting warm here in the south!

All the best!
Alex

UPDATE: WOW! Area 52 is kicking!! Really Nice!
 :banana piano: :beer: :violin: :drums: :guitar: :rock: :bounce: :hyper: :dance: :weights:
 :thumb:

Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: taoggniklat on 30 Mar 2012, 10:44 pm
I was just going to mention them (Rodrigo y Gabriela)! good stuff!
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: jimdgoulding on 31 Mar 2012, 12:02 am
Mapleshades are pretty exciting for transparency and dynamic life. 

http://shop.mapleshadestore.com/products.asp?dept=134
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Æ on 31 Mar 2012, 12:34 am
I just got this one, don't know if it has been mentioned yet or not, not exactly music. Well it does contain music along with plenty of test tones and sound effects, very dynamic.

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=60365)


Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: pstrisik on 3 Apr 2012, 05:36 pm
I'll add the alternative rock trio, Morphine, to the mix.  Their first album, "Good" is more than good.  Recording quality is excellent.  They are often understated and, as a trio, allow for impressive detail and separation.  They can also build to near frenzy, but don't go over the top. 

Amazon has sample audio clips:
http://www.amazon.com/Good-Morphine/dp/B0000009OQ/ref=sr_1_cc_1?s=aps&ie=UTF8&qid=1333474401&sr=1-1-catcorr (http://www.amazon.com/Good-Morphine/dp/B0000009OQ/ref=sr_1_cc_1?s=aps&ie=UTF8&qid=1333474401&sr=1-1-catcorr)


(http://g-ecx.images-amazon.com/images/G/01/ciu/31/a1/0db8eb6709a0f4027edc0110.L._AA300_.jpg)
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Æ on 3 Apr 2012, 05:55 pm
Here is a great CD. . . I only have the original 16 bit CD.

James Newton Howard & Friends, Sheffield Lab.

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=60534)
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 5 Apr 2012, 01:40 am
AE..thanks for the recommendations, actually the James Newton Howard and Friends has been a favorite of mine for years and on the first page of this thread it is listed.

All the best
Alex
 :D
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Æ on 5 Apr 2012, 02:40 am
AE..thanks for the recommendations, actually the James Newton Howard and Friends has been a favorite of mine for years and on the first page of this thread it is listed.

All the best
Alex
 :D

Yes, I figured it was probably redundant, but I wasn't about to go and read all the many pages of replies.
I didn't know they had a 24 bit version of the disc until recently.
Thank you
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: charmerci on 7 Apr 2012, 06:09 pm
Yes, I figured it was probably redundant, but I wasn't about to go and read all the many pages of replies.


There's a nice summary list on page 57.


Zowie! 100K views just zipped on by this thread.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Saturn94 on 7 Apr 2012, 10:23 pm
Another recommendation;

"The Fifth Element" soundtrack

http://www.amazon.com/The-Fifth-Element-Eric-Serra/dp/B000000WE5/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1333837244&sr=8-1

While much of the music is a bit odd (I like it :thumb:), check out track 14 if you like classical/opera; sounds fantastic on my HT2-TLs.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: lonewolfny42 on 7 Apr 2012, 11:01 pm
Got another one for you Alex...it will get you in the dance'n mood... :lol:

A 1997 release on 32Jazz (recording from '74-'77)....tenor sax highlighted....lots going on sound wise...and some good tunes by Carlos Garnett...this music really "pops" !

The album...."Fire"

(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41yE71AYbxL._SS500_.jpg)

Info and Short Samples... (http://www.allmusic.com/album/fire-r317434)

Track 1..."Chana" (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AjatIDo7S6c&feature=relmfu)

Track 3..."Senor Trane" (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ez-mNHBCBC8&feature=relmfu)

Track 5...."Memories Of Coltrane" (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5CVdLZfZSC0&feature=relmfu)

Amazon....(buy used) (http://www.amazon.com/Fire-Carlos-Garnett/dp/B000005BF6/ref=sr_1_1?s=music&ie=UTF8&qid=1333838290&sr=1-1)

Have a Happy Easter holiday.... :beer:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Frans on 9 Apr 2012, 06:22 pm
Over the weekend I spent time listening to various CDs, and "No Frills" by Nik Kershaw emerged as a reference CD on my Salk speakers.

(http://images.ecwid.com/images/93302/791043.jpg)

No Frills features solo-acoustic Nik Kershaw singing deconstructing selected songs while very tastefully playing acoustic guitar. The level of craftmanship is top notch, but the best part is the amazing wide-open and airy sound quality. My Salks exposed very subtle nuances I'd never noticed before. Highly recommended as a demo disc - or just to enjoy thoroughly!  :thumb:

I bought it from the artist's own web site: Nik Kershaw's site (http://www.nikkershaw.net/shop#ecwid:category=0&mode=product&product=452869), but there may be other avenues. This is a self-released CD, so digital downloads are easier to find, but the extra effort is more than worth it!
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 9 Apr 2012, 06:25 pm
Hey Chris...its on its way!!

Thought I was listening to Spyrogyra when I listened to the Chana track!!!

Used is good!!...they all go to FLACS now anyway!

and CONGRATS for our 100,000 views now !!

Thanks Everyone!
All the best
Alex

 :hyper: :banana piano: :beer: :guitar: :drums: :violin: :bounce:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: ckullmann1 on 16 Apr 2012, 06:47 pm
Allison Crowe is amazing and she sounds incredible on the Songtowers.  You can start by listening to her version of Time After Time, but she has many great songs!
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Saturn94 on 21 Apr 2012, 01:37 pm
Hmmm......I can't remember if I mentioned this one before:

"Mancini's Greatest Hits" on the Telarc label;

http://www.amazon.com/Mancinis-Hits-Henry-Mancini/dp/B000003CV9/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1335015353&sr=8-1

Sounds great!
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: charmerci on 27 Apr 2012, 08:22 pm
I keep forgetting to post this one.

http://www.amazon.com/One-Only-Thrill-Melody-Gardot/dp/B001NESPHC/ref=sr_1_2?s=music&ie=UTF8&qid=1335557940&sr=1-2

I am rarely, rarely impressed with new singers/musicians but this gal has it all. Great tight band and she writes her own music - very much like the classics of yesteryear, great singer and a wonderful, very sexy voice.

(Oooo yes, I could fall in love with her. 8))
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 30 Apr 2012, 06:44 pm
charmerci...thanks for the recommendation!

Its on its way here...look forward to listening to this one!!

All the best
Alex
 :D
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 15 May 2012, 09:32 pm
Got this from another thread...thanks to Chris...

Brother Jack McDuff....."Bringin It Home"...



Really nice, tight and awesome playing for sure.....

Jazz!!!

All the best
Alex

http://www.amazon.com/Bringin-Home-Brother-Jack-Mcduff/dp/B00000I04G/ref=sr_1_9?ie=UTF8&qid=1337117336&sr=8-9
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: lonewolfny42 on 16 May 2012, 01:53 am
Got this from another thread...thanks to Chris...

Brother Jack McDuff....."Bringin It Home"...



Really nice, tight and awesome playing for sure.....

Jazz!!!

All the best
Alex

http://www.amazon.com/Bringin-Home-Brother-Jack-Mcduff/dp/B00000I04G/ref=sr_1_9?ie=UTF8&qid=1337117336&sr=8-9

Nice...it's good stuff Alex. 8)

Check out some of his other releases as well....here... (http://www.allmusic.com/artist/jack-mcduff-p103907) . :thumb:


While we're on the organ....a very good live Cd...by a real master...one you can't go wrong with.... Jimmy Smith - "Root Down" (http://www.allmusic.com/album/root-down-r147795/review)

Amazon Link... (http://www.amazon.com/Root-Down-Jimmy-Smith/dp/B00004UAQS/ref=sr_1_2?s=music&ie=UTF8&qid=1337132583&sr=1-2)

YouTube 1 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R99VnAwZepM)

YouTube 2 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6OPa_Wu6iC4&feature=relmfu)

YouTube 3 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xx3R1Eg6mPc&feature=relmfu)

.................. :banana piano:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: charmerci on 3 Jun 2012, 12:51 am
I know you've heard the song a thousand times but the 2001 remastered Simon and Garfunkel - Parsley, Sage, Rosemary and Thyme is amazing. No, it won't necessarily give you that you-are-there presence like Telarc records but it sounds real nice.

(Though some of the songs don't sound that great. It seems like they used different recorders for many of the songs.)

Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Saturn94 on 4 Jun 2012, 03:07 am
Another oldie but goody from Telarc:

http://www.amazon.com/Stravinsky-Firebird-Suite-Borodin-Prince/dp/B000003CSF/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1338779163&sr=8-1

Sounds terrific on my HT2-TLs. :thumb:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Saturn94 on 26 Jul 2012, 03:31 pm
Here's a great classical piano demo CD

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00000JMX8/ref=oh_details_o00_s00_i00
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 27 Jul 2012, 01:03 am
Saturn94,

I actually have that cd from Telarc!!! Its very good.

I am listening to a new artist to me:

Lizzy West....found a cut on a demo cd that I really liked but like most demo cds didnt know who or what the artist or song was.

I asked who this might be in the Salk Demo CD thread....and someone said its Lizzie West...ok.

So on to the the A....andI found two cds:

The first is "Holy Road - Freedom Songs" Enhanced

http://www.amazon.com/Holy-Road-Freedom-Lizzie-West/dp/B00008QS95/ref=ntt_mus_ep_dpi_2

Both were "had" for .01 cents!!!!! and the price of shipping!!!! NICE eh!!

Really nice and refreshing sound...hope you enjoy!

All the best
Alex
 :D

The other is :Lizzie West
http://www.amazon.com/Lizzie-West/dp/B000075A1R/ref=ntt_mus_ep_dpi_3


;

Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 6 Sep 2012, 12:23 am
Listening to the remastered Rolling Stones "Hot Rocks".....1964-1971...

http://www.amazon.com/Hot-Rocks-1964-1971-Rolling-Stones/dp/B00006EXDM/ref=sr_1_1?s=music&ie=UTF8&qid=1346890914&sr=1-1&keywords=rolling+stones+hot+rocks

This is a classic set of tunes that will get you rocking for sure.....done nicely...

All the best
Alex

 :thumb:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 7 Sep 2012, 01:41 am
Hello,

Just got a new cd from the Fourplay group, "Energy".

Very well recorded and well mastered.


(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=67368)


http://www.amazon.com/Energy-Fourplay/dp/B001D94L3Y/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1346981962&sr=8-1&keywords=fourplay+energy

Several of the Fourplay tracks are being used on demo cds etc...this disc is a very nice addition.

All the best..

Alex

 :thumb:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: nemir on 17 Sep 2012, 08:54 am
Tommy Emanuel is not from this planet....he defies human ability.

The funniest thing about Tommy....   All his life,  through his entire amazing journey as a guitarist all over the world,  he's had to tell everyone that raves to him about how good he is that back home he's got a brother who's also a guitarist....

They were in a band together. Only needed one guitarist so Tommy played drums.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Big Red Machine on 17 Sep 2012, 10:35 am
http://www.amazon.com/Songs-From-Southland-Hans-Theessink/dp/B00008RGCO/ref=sr_1_18?ie=UTF8&qid=1347877932&sr=8-18&keywords=theessink


(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=67857)
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 17 Sep 2012, 11:59 am
We get to see Tommy Emmanual play this sat evening!!

Front row center!!!

Yahoo!

Alex
 :D
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: chargedmr2 on 17 Sep 2012, 12:38 pm
Good morning gentlemen,

I just want to say thanks for creating such a great thread.  I've been following it for quite some time, and I've bought at least 40 new albums from all of the good info here!  And they sure do make my SongTowers sing.  I've only recently gotten into music (bit of a late bloomer, I guess), so I don't feel that I can contribute quite yet, but I sure will when I get to that point.

Thanks again!  Oh yeah...six more albums on the way!
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 17 Sep 2012, 12:44 pm
chragedmr2...

Thanks and welcome!!

The thread is full of real 'gems' for sure....depending on your musical tastes.

I have a pretty narrow focused musical palette, but many of the recommendations here have
certainly enriched my listening pleasure...

All the best
Alex

 :D
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: nemir on 17 Sep 2012, 04:12 pm
I might be a bit premature with this, as I've not heard it on truly great hifi setup yet,  but I'ma gonna recommend something.

Good albums are ones that have some great songs,  and where the filler tracks are also a reasonable standard.  Great albums are where there truly are no filler tracks.   It seems to me to be very rare to find albums where the songs are all great  but they've been put together in an extremely thoguhtful way,  so that when you take the time to listen to the entire album in one sitting you are taken on an emotional journey.

Elvis Costello has released many albums in many genres over the course of his 35 year career.   Most people,  even his biggest fans, seem to overlook "Mighty Like a Rose" as it doesn't have any killer single.  If you aren't a big fan,  then you probably couldn't name a single song on that album,  let alone hum a single bar from it.

It is,  imvho,  one fo the most overlooked albums of the '90s.   The songs are all great.  It starts out on a vibrant,  up-tempo mood,  but soon starts to drift into melancholy before spiralling down into the deepest darkest emotional pit I've heard in music with the second last track,  before bringing you out the other side, jsut a little.   Leaving you feeling still, and raw,  but perhaps with that hint of optimism that you're through it and things will look up from here on out.

I used to listen to "Broken" as the last track on my hifi demo disc.  I was always left feeling the stillness of the room afterwards.  It is one of the most profound love songs I've heard.

Making use of a celeste, harmonium, clavinet, chamberlain it will stretch your speaker's bottom end ability to play musically,  and some of Elvis' vocals and use of horns will show off the top end, too.

It took me about 3 listens to from start to finish to fully appreciate this record,  but I've been enjoying it ever since.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 17 Sep 2012, 04:39 pm
nemir!

Thanks so much for the recommendation!!

I will have to give this one a listen for sure!!

All the best
Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Don_S on 17 Sep 2012, 04:46 pm
Good recommendation.  I prefer Slow Train and Call Me

(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/21C4BQSRSHL._SL500_AA300_.jpg)
(http://ts1.mm.bing.net/images/thumbnail.aspx?q=4783769655117088&id=6a0f18058238cd5b2b59cf66abb40ca5)

Both seem hard to find now.  Glad I keep all disks after loading my server.

http://www.amazon.com/Songs-From-Southland-Hans-Theessink/dp/B00008RGCO/ref=sr_1_18?ie=UTF8&qid=1347877932&sr=8-18&keywords=theessink


(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=67857)
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: nemir on 17 Sep 2012, 08:31 pm
nemir!

Thanks so much for the recommendation!!

I will have to give this one a listen for sure!!

All the best
Alex

After I found my recommendation I found an Elvis Costello fan site that absolutely pans this album.   So...   I guess we'll just have to see if my taste is closer to yours than Elvis fans'.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: rodge827 on 17 Sep 2012, 11:01 pm
We get to see Tommy Emmanual play this sat evening!!

Front row center!!!

Yahoo!

Alex
 :D

So did Tommy blow your mind?

He was at the Surflight in Beach Haven, NJ last night and will be there tonight and tomorrow as well.
We didn't make it this time, but I might go and talk to the Surflight booking agent tomorrow and score a couple of tix.

Chris
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 19 Sep 2012, 02:33 pm
Actually we go to see him this sat evening at 9 pm.....

We saw him earlier this year with my wife....and my son is a guitarist and I thought he would
really appreciate seeing him...

We saw Joe Satriani many years back as well.....what fingers!!

Looking forward to see Tommy again, he surely is in a class all his own....

Just simply amazing!

All the best
Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: nemir on 23 Sep 2012, 01:37 am
Actually we go to see him this sat evening at 9 pm.....

We saw him earlier this year with my wife....and my son is a guitarist and I thought he would
really appreciate seeing him...

We saw Joe Satriani many years back as well.....what fingers!!

Looking forward to see Tommy again, he surely is in a class all his own....

Just simply amazing!

All the best
Alex

I am not a serious metalhead,  but I have a good friend who is, and he takes me along to a lot of metal gigs.  So we went to see G3 a couple of years back.   We'd already seen Steve Vai perform before, and despite not being a metal guy,  I thought that he put on the best show I'd ever seen.   The G3 running sheet always sees the 3rd wheel opening,  then Steve Vai,  and then Joe Satriani comes out.

During the break after Vai and before Satch,  I turned around and said "That was phenomenal.  No-one could follow him!!  What is Satch thinking??"

My mate replied "If anyone can follow that,  It's Satriani"

After the gig I turned to him and said "You were right.  If anyone could follow Steve Vai, it's Joe Satriani.   Sadly for Joe,  I think I was right too."

I've seen a few mentions for Joe Satriani stuff in this thread.    I will put forward Steve Vai's "Alien Love Secrets"

It's one of his best.   And it features a song with quite amazing vocals (http://a song with quite amazing vocals),   and I always using it during hifi auditions.



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F6JYXiXio74 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F6JYXiXio74)

 





Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 23 Sep 2012, 07:10 pm
I saw Satriani live many years ago, and he is an animal...his Rubina is a classic, grea demo.

Tommy Emmanual I saw again for the second time this year here in North Carolina, I was 10 feet from him at the conceret with my son a guitarist, who adores Satriani...he was amazed.

These guys are at the top of their class....Tommy is a real genuine, humble person with God given talents that make him a joy to watch and listen to.

He was coming off a cold / flu....so his voice was a bit raspy, but he made up for that in his playing, and he played without stopping for over 2 hours...all for  $30 seat.

It was simply amazing.

He did a guitar lesson in the middle of the show...and explained how he does stuff and puts it all together, along with his wit and humor....stories about his hero Chet Atkins and how they met and played in Nashville many years ago...

This experience was a 12 out of a 10....and I hope he comes back again!

All the best
Alex
 :D
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: rodge827 on 23 Sep 2012, 07:24 pm
That's great Alex.  :thumb:

I missed Tommy this time due to my wife having a terrible cold, and I felt kinda funny going alone.

Glad he put on such a wonderful show for you. :D

I hope to catch him on his next trip through Beach Haven.

Chris
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 31 Oct 2012, 06:27 pm
Ok theres a new Donald Fagen CD just out....I really liked his other cd's...does anyone have this one yet: "Sunken-Condos"

Only 9.99 on the A.

http://www.amazon.com/Sunken-Condos-Donald-Fagen/dp/B008O9V4C2/ref=sr_1_1?s=music&ie=UTF8&qid=1351707955&sr=1-1&keywords=donald+fagen

All the best
Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: mzbrahce on 31 Oct 2012, 08:10 pm
It arrived Monday and I've listened to it just once.  Sound quality is excellent and the music is very good, similar to his other solo CDs, which I have also.  If you like them, you'll like this one.  Walter Becker has a relatively new CD out also;  it came yesterday, but I haven't listened to it yet.
Also, I've taken the 4 parts of The List and combined them into one word file.  I fixed a few things I noticed and got rid of all (I hope) duplicates.  I don't know how to best post it here, but if you are interested in it, send me a pm and I'll email it to you.

--------------------------Mark
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 1 Nov 2012, 12:36 am
mzbrahce...

Thanks for the feedback...I have all the other Fagen cd's and they all are really good. Guess I will have to spring for this one as well...

Sitting here listening to another wonderful group and stellar recording...."Fourplay" and their Energy CD.

As far as the list in one place ie a word file etc...that's great....There was some kind of limitation in the amount I could post and decided to just break them up over time and add links....

The list's are good until the last entry as far as currency and there are some dups for sure....Someone else did something like this awhile back and posted to another site etc...don't remember but its in this thread somewhere!

Need to go back and do another update, but the thread has been really on the slow side in the past few months seems like we have achieved 'critical mass'.... :(

Hope things take off once again!!

All the best
Alex

 :D
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 10 Nov 2012, 07:13 pm
Just discovered John Hiatt and his several cds that are very nice.

"The Best of John Hiatt" and the recent "Mystic Pinball: in particular are very nice.

There is a song called 'Child Of The Wild Blue Yonder" that has an opening set of drum whacks that I have listened to over and over and over....its really awesome.

http://www.amazon.com/Mystic-Pinball-John-Hiatt/dp/B008SVS3FC/ref=sr_1_1?s=music&ie=UTF8&qid=1352574733&sr=1-1&keywords=john+hiatt

http://www.amazon.com/gp/prime/signup/videos/ref=gno_joinprmlogo_combined

Give them a listen I am sure you will enjoy this artist and the nice recordings!

All the best
Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 5 Dec 2012, 04:36 pm
I downloaded the latest HD Tracks demo selections for 'FREE'.

Some of these are really very, very well done...

One artist I never heard of was:


Glen Hansard and his song "Maybe Not Tonight from Rhythm And Repose

http://www.amazon.com/Rhythm-Repose-Glen-Hansard/dp/B007SPN5MA/ref=sr_1_1?s=music&ie=UTF8&qid=1354725381&sr=1-1&keywords=glen+hansard

This is a very well done recording!!

Enjoy!

Alex
 :D

Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: bummrush on 5 Dec 2012, 04:45 pm
John Hiatt's  two cd's are huge classics Slow Turning  and Bring the family.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 12 Dec 2012, 12:33 am
Just discovered this amazing female voice!!

Bettye LaVette
The cd is Thankful-N-Thoughtful......oh My its really, really GREAT!!

http://www.amazon.com/Thankful-N-Thoughtful-Bettye-LaVette/dp/B008FIHUDO/ref=sr_1_1?s=music&ie=UTF8&qid=1355272237&sr=1-1&keywords=Bettye+LaVette

Alex
 :D
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: rnconync on 28 Dec 2012, 09:34 pm
A few of the CD's/songs I like to test with are:
 
Allen Toussaint's "The Bright Mississippi
Buena Vista Social Club "Buena Vista Social Club"
Nickel Creek "This Side" Sabra Girl
Howard Shore "Hugo Original Score" The Thief
Yo-Yo Ma "Yo-Yo Ma Plays Ennio Morricone"

There are plenty more, but these are a few of my favorites

Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 9 Jan 2013, 04:44 pm
rnconync,

Thanks for your suggestions!

All the best
Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: lonewolfny42 on 18 Jan 2013, 07:37 am
Hey Alex...

Quote
There is a song called 'Child Of The Wild Blue Yonder" that has an opening set of drum whacks that I have listened to over and over and over....its really awesome.

I've got a good whack for you....  :jester: (and some nice bass)

Plus it's a good album.... 8)


The track....."Smash" (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ahJCERfeehY)

The album.....Avishai Cohen - "Continuo" (http://www.amazon.com/Continuo-Avishai-Cohen/dp/B000FDEU12) (Jazz)

All the best in 2013.... :beer:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 18 Jan 2013, 04:03 pm
Hey Chris!

All the best to you as well for 2013!

Yikes thats a great suggestion...wonderful bass.....will have to get this one!

Thanks Again,

Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: rollo on 18 Jan 2013, 08:09 pm
John Hiatt's  two cd's are huge classics Slow Turning  and Bring the family.


   Two of my favorite LPs. Very good for auditioning new gear s it covers all.



charles
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Gzerro on 18 Jan 2013, 08:26 pm
If you like those John Hiatt, you will most likey enjoy JJ Cale's - Naturally LP. (I used to have Slow Turning and Naturally on flip sides of a cassette back in the day, so they are now forever linked in my brain).

Great stuff both.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: medium jim on 18 Jan 2013, 10:42 pm
Ok theres a new Donald Fagen CD just out....I really liked his other cd's...does anyone have this one yet: "Sunken-Condos"

Only 9.99 on the A.

http://www.amazon.com/Sunken-Condos-Donald-Fagen/dp/B008O9V4C2/ref=sr_1_1?s=music&ie=UTF8&qid=1351707955&sr=1-1&keywords=donald+fagen

All the best
Alex

Another one from Donald Fagen is Morph The Cat!

Jim
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 19 Jan 2013, 12:14 pm
I have the Morph The Cat and its really good!

I will have to look into JJ Cales stuff...

Thanks folks for the recommendations!!

Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: charmerci on 31 Jan 2013, 12:51 am
Evening of My Best Day - Rickie Lee Jones.

Wonderful, wonderful sound. (The low bass might be a bit loose - or it might be my not-up-to-snuff sub, I'm not sure - but good enough.)

You can it cheap used on amazon.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 31 Jan 2013, 02:01 pm
charmerci!

Thanks...will get a copy!

All the best
Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: charmerci on 1 Feb 2013, 03:43 am
charmerci!

Thanks...will get a copy!

All the best
Alex

I rarely, rarely, rarely like albums put out after the early/mid-80's. (Not into classical.) I want to like Ms. Jones - and I listened to a couple of other of her later albums (It's Like This and Balm In Gilead) and they just don't make it in my book.  This is a really good one.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Frans on 8 Feb 2013, 03:16 pm

Buena Vista Social Club "Buena Vista Social Club"

Glad you mentioned this, as I got the HDTracks hires version Buena Vista Social Club (https://www.hdtracks.com/index.php?file=catalogdetail&valbum_code=HD075597964516) and it never fails to move me. Highly recommended!

For Bluegrass fans there's Allison Krauss and Union Station's Paper Airplane (https://www.hdtracks.com/index.php?file=catalogdetail&valbum_code=HD00011661862425) which sounds ridiculously good on my Salks.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Stratman on 3 Mar 2013, 11:01 pm
I just got standard Songtowers and a Rythmik sub a few weeks ago.  I'd suggest that Brenda Russell's "Piano In The Dark" sounds spectacular in my room.

Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 3 Apr 2013, 01:55 pm
Hey Stratman...

What cd do you have with the Piano in the Dark?

There are several on the 'A"...with this song.

Thanks
Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: chargedmr2 on 7 Apr 2013, 01:32 pm
Can anyone recommend some nicely recorded classical music featuring the cello?  Hope that's not an odd question or too out of place for this thread, but I've really been enjoying the cello lately.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: lonewolfny42 on 7 Apr 2013, 05:00 pm
Can anyone recommend some nicely recorded classical music featuring the cello?  Hope that's not an odd question or too out of place for this thread, but I've really been enjoying the cello lately.

Try these two....

Yo-Yo Ma ...."The 6 Unaccompanied Cello Suites Complete" (http://www.amazon.com/The-Unaccompanied-Cello-Suites-Complete/dp/B003PTP5BW/ref=dp_ob_title_music)

Samples... (http://www.amazon.com/Bach-Unaccompanied-Remastered-Digital-Booklet/dp/B003V9AKBG/ref=tmm_other_meta_binding_title_0)


Janos Starker ... "Starker Plays Kodaly" (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0000006U7/ref=dm_dp_cdp?ie=UTF8&qid=1365352661&s=music&sr=1-15)

Samples... (http://www.amazon.com/Kodaly-Z-Bottermund-Variations-Paganini/dp/B001N7VMME/ref=tmm_other_meta_binding_title_0?ie=UTF8&qid=1365352661&sr=1-15)


Another fine cellist...Jacqueline du Pré .... http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UUgdbqt2ON0
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Frans on 7 Apr 2013, 05:07 pm
Try any classical JVC XRCD24 recordings.

http://store.acousticsounds.com/c/32/XRCD24_CD
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: chargedmr2 on 7 Apr 2013, 08:33 pm
Thanks for the recommendations.  Those samples were very nice and I will be ordering both CDs  :thumb:

Edit to add: both CDs arrived and they sound great through my STs.  Thanks again.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Saturn94 on 21 Apr 2013, 11:14 pm
Try these two....

Yo-Yo Ma ...."The 6 Unaccompanied Cello Suites Complete" (http://www.amazon.com/The-Unaccompanied-Cello-Suites-Complete/dp/B003PTP5BW/ref=dp_ob_title_music)

Samples... (http://www.amazon.com/Bach-Unaccompanied-Remastered-Digital-Booklet/dp/B003V9AKBG/ref=tmm_other_meta_binding_title_0)


Janos Starker ... "Starker Plays Kodaly" (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0000006U7/ref=dm_dp_cdp?ie=UTF8&qid=1365352661&s=music&sr=1-15)

Samples... (http://www.amazon.com/Kodaly-Z-Bottermund-Variations-Paganini/dp/B001N7VMME/ref=tmm_other_meta_binding_title_0?ie=UTF8&qid=1365352661&sr=1-15)


Another fine cellist...Jacqueline du Pré .... http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UUgdbqt2ON0

Loved the Jacqueline Du Pre clip....just ordered a cd.  Thanks!
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: lonewolfny42 on 21 Apr 2013, 11:42 pm
Quote
Loved the Jacqueline Du Pre clip....just ordered a cd.  Thanks!

Good...it's a strong ... powerful ...emotional...and sad piece.

Quote
Edward Elgar's Concerto for cello and orchestra in E minor, from the year 1919, is the last major work the composer penned (a Third Symphony remained in draft form at his death in 1934). While the instrumental forces remain basically equivalent to those used in the Violin Concerto, Elgar has amplified the tender, searching intimacy of that earlier work to such a degree that one might call the Cello Concerto not just introspective but searing and almost ascetic. It is an exceedingly complex but immediately touching work that makes a fitting epilogue to Elgar's lifetime in music.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: jaw5279 on 29 Apr 2013, 06:03 pm
If you like bluegrass, try a CD by the group Balsam Range.  I saw them perform in a live concert on a public TV bluegrass show (Song of the Mountains) and was impressed.  Picked up one of their older CD/s (Marching Home) and enjoyed the music and the recording.   
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Devil Doc on 29 Apr 2013, 07:47 pm
Speaking of which:
(http://www.annieblooms.com/files/annieblooms/goat_rodeo_sessions.jpg)

I like to call it chamber music for Woodchucks and Rednecks :lol:

Doc
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: OgOgilby on 12 May 2013, 05:49 pm
Jesse Cook - Blue Guitar Sessions

(http://info-culture.biz/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/Jesse-Cook_cover-art_The-Blue-Guitar-Sessions-Redimensionnement.jpg)

HDTracks: https://www.hdtracks.com/index.php?file=catalogdetail&valbum_code=HD099923244127 (https://www.hdtracks.com/index.php?file=catalogdetail&valbum_code=HD099923244127)

Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Blue-Guitar-Sessions-Jesse-Cook/dp/B008OHV6JA (http://www.amazon.com/Blue-Guitar-Sessions-Jesse-Cook/dp/B008OHV6JA)

Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 27 May 2013, 02:10 pm
Anyone have any "good" CD's, recorded or re-mastered well for that old Richard Harris guy???

Yea I know that was a looooong time ago!

Alex

 :D
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: jsalk on 17 Aug 2013, 06:10 am
I haven't spent to much time lurking here lately.  But one CD I don't think has been mentioned yet is Roadhouse and Automobiles by Chris Jones.  No Sanctuary Here is a great cut.

http://www.amazon.com/Roadhouses-Automobiles-Chris-Jones/dp/B00015BIOQ/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1376719686&sr=8-1&keywords=chris+jones (http://www.amazon.com/Roadhouses-Automobiles-Chris-Jones/dp/B00015BIOQ/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1376719686&sr=8-1&keywords=chris+jones)

- Jim
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: SoCalWJS on 17 Aug 2013, 04:06 pm
I haven't spent to much time lurking here lately.  But one CD I don't think has been mentioned yet is Roadhouse and Automobiles by Chris Jones.  No Sanctuary Here is a great cut.

http://www.amazon.com/Roadhouses-Automobiles-Chris-Jones/dp/B00015BIOQ/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1376719686&sr=8-1&keywords=chris+jones (http://www.amazon.com/Roadhouses-Automobiles-Chris-Jones/dp/B00015BIOQ/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1376719686&sr=8-1&keywords=chris+jones)

- Jim
I first heard this one at RMAF 2011 in the Headphone Room on a very nice rig. Bought it as soon as I got home (couldn't find it at the show).

I use No Sanctuary Here all the time. Crank it up and see if it all holds together - tells you a lot about a system in just a few seconds.  :thumb:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 17 Aug 2013, 05:47 pm
Great! Thanks Jim...

I will check this one out for sure..

You use anything on this cd in your demo cd etc??

Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: jsalk on 18 Aug 2013, 03:03 am
Great! Thanks Jim...

I will check this one out for sure..

You use anything on this cd in your demo cd etc??

Alex

No Sanctuary Here gets quite a bit of play at shows.  It would certainly be on our demo CD, but I have not done a new one in a few years.  Perhaps its time.

- Jim
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: jimdgoulding on 18 Aug 2013, 06:47 am
Thanks for that link, Chris, to Miss du Pre.  Just wow.  I have her EMI recording of Elgar but this seemed greater still.  Positively wow.  I'll listen again very soon. 
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Frans on 9 Sep 2013, 01:05 am
I'm deeply impressed by the new Fish "Feast of Consequences" 24-bit downloads (in advance of the physical CD). It sounds huge, clean, and detailed on my trusty Salks - I almost want to bathe in it!  :icon_lol:

Highly recommended!

http://fishheadsclub.com/2013/04/23/a-feast-of-consequences-update/
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Kenneth Patchen on 3 Oct 2013, 03:36 pm
If you’re just starting listening to cello recordings I’d also mention:
JS Bach: Solo Suites
Pablo Casals (cello)
EMI 965 9212JS Bach: Solo Suites
Pablo Casals (cello)
EMI 965 9212

Dvořák: Cello Concerto
Emanuel Feuermann (cello); Berlin State Opera Orchestra/MichaelTaube
Pearl GemmCD9077

Shostakovich: Cello Concertos
Mstislav Rostropovich (cello); Moscow Philharmonic Orchestra/Gennady Rozhdestvensky
EMI 562 8282

And

Steven Isserlis - Haydn: Cello Concertos in C & D, Sinfonia Concertante by Chamber Orchestra of Europe, Joseph Haydn, Roger Norrington and Steven Isserlis (1998) – Import

Lately I’ve been listening to the Ensemble Explorations cds, which do a fine job resonating that warm ‘woody’ sound throughout the house:

Vivaldi: Cello Concertos, Ensemble Explorations (Artist, Orchestra), Roel Dieltiens (Artist, Conductor)

And speaking of the wonderful Ensemble Explorations, I also listening to:
Rossini: Une larme, Duo, Serenata, Sonatas by Ensemble Explorations, Roel Dieltiens and Gioacchino Rossini(2013) - Import

Sonatas & Partitas for Violin by J.S. Bach and Christine Busch (2013)

And then this from last week stack:

Vivaldi: Six Cello Concertos, Christopher Hogwood Christophe Coin, The Academy of Ancient Music

... And for those interested in Jim's suggestion of Chris Jones, you should give a listen to Greg Brown, if you don’t know the music.

And, one other mention not in the classical realm - and speaking of Greg Brown and cello - if you don’t know the excellent Anais Mitchell Hades Town, then drop what you’re doing now (unless you’re holding a child or listening to your wife) and get it .... seriously:

http://www.amazon.com/gp/recsradio/radio/B0034JIOWK/ref=pd_krex_listen_dp_img?ie=UTF8&refTagSuffix=dp_img
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 19 Oct 2013, 01:37 am
Thanks guys for the past few recommendations!!

Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: fishinbob on 4 Nov 2013, 10:56 pm
It's been a few years but I recall Nuance looking for piano music that would make you cry or words to that effect.

I recently purchased this one looking for another rendition of Schubert's Impromptu no 3. and it comes as close to sounding as though it's actually in my room of any of the solo piano recording I have. Highly recommended.
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=89428)
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B000L43QNS/?tag=sacdinfocom-20
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: robcentola on 5 Nov 2013, 05:06 pm
This is great! I love finding new music. Great taste everyone! Learning so much!
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: metier on 6 Nov 2013, 03:03 am
This is great! I love finding new music. Great taste everyone! Learning so much!

Here is a good thread to find new music
link (http://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=26231.0)
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: grantc79 on 26 Dec 2013, 04:20 pm
ballake sissoko has an album called At Peace.

First track Maimouna is amazing.

Here's a youtube crappy sq version http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TWjI7ZDW7uw
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: drew8mc on 31 Dec 2013, 07:11 pm
I haven't been to this Circle in a long while, but this thread is so good I had to contribute my loves.  Looking through my collection, here are some recommendations by genre.  I haven't read through the entire thread, so if I've repeated some, sorry about that.  These are just albums I love.  I'm an album guy, and typically listen to entire albums at a time.  If, however, there is a specific track I tend to favor, I've noted it.  Artist is listed first, then album title.  My musical taste is a bit eclectic, so I've tried to pick out some music that perhaps people have not heard, or even heard of.  Sound quality is generally quite excellent, but the well known audiophile discs already listed will undoubtedly sound better than most of what I've listed.  I'm just trying to add some interesting choices for those curious enough to look them up. 

Rock, alternative and country:
1. The Civil Wars, The Civil Wars
2. Jack Johnson, Brushfire Fairytales
3. Kings of Convenience, Declaration of Dependence- but I love all their albums
4. Erin McKeown- Grand- Track 12: James
5. Gillian Welch- The Harrow and the Harvest
6. Kim Richey- Thorn in My Heart
7. Beck- Sea Change
8. David Byrne and St. Vincent, Love This Giant

World Music:
1. Dead Can Dance, Into the Labyrinth, Spirit Chaser, and Anastasis are all great... with amazing sound quality
2. Ayub Ogada- En Mana Kuoyo- Track 9- Kothbiro
3. Bebo and Cigala, Lagrimas Negras
4. Caetano Veloso and David Byrne, Live at Carnegie Hall
5. Celso Fonseca and Ronaldo Bastos, Juventude/ Slow Motion Bossa Nova
6. Daboa, From the Gekko
7. Kodo, Mondo Head
8. Juan Martin, El Alqemista (The Alchemist)
9. Roberto Fonseca, Zamazu
10. Renaud Garcia-Fons, Entremundo
11. Seu Jorge and Almaz, Seu Jorge and Almaz
12. Vassilis Tsabropoulos, Melos

Blues:
1. Muddy Waters, Folk Singer
2. Keb' Mo', Just Like You
3. Buddy Guy, Blues Singer
4. John Lee Hooker, Jealous

Electronic, World Beats, etc.
1. Tosca, Dehli 9
2. Koop, Waltz for Koop
3. Mercan Dede, Nefes
4. Suba, Sao Paulo Confessions
5. Thievery Corporation, The Richest Man in Babylon

Jazz:
1. Gregory Porter, Liquid Spirit
2. Leon Parker, Awakening
3. Don Byron, Bug Music
4. Oscar Brown Jr., Sin and Soul
5. Count Basie, 88 Basie St.
6. Jamie Cullum, The Pursuit

Classical:
1. Arvo Part, Miserere- ECM release
2. Nigel Kennedy and Lynn Harrell, Duos for Violin and Cello
3. Osvaldo Golijov, La Pasion Segun San Marcos
4. Zbigniew Priesner, Requiem for my Friend
5. Kroumata Percussion Ensemble, Garbage Concerto- Rock Symphony- BIS release, available at HD Tracks
6. Henry Purcell and George Crumb, Apparition, Performed by Christine Schafer and Eric Schneider

There are, of course, tons of albums I love which don't sound stupendous, but I'll leave that for another thread.  Actually, that would be an interesting thread; Outstanding Music, Bad Sound.
Happy Hunting.  If any of you do not use Spotify on your computer, I recommend it.  It's a free streaming program that allows you to listen to any music they have (you'll be able to find most rock and jazz listed, world and classical is hit and miss).  You can listen to entire albums, radio, playlists, etc.  I use it to audition new music I may want to purchase, and for those great one hit wonders that you don't really want the whole album. 

Cheers,
Drew
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 14 Feb 2014, 03:17 pm
Thanks for all the new recommendations and I am glad you found this  thread, it has over the past few years allowed me
to enlarge my music collection and has made me smile many times!!

All the best
Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: drumike on 15 Feb 2014, 12:30 am
Newcomer with Salk SCST's for about a month now and I'm really enjoying rediscovering my CD collection.
Some of these may have already been mentioned but I hope some will be new and enjoyable. Most of these are fairly old .
1. Rhythm, Country and Blues - MCA - Duet Compilations by various artists. My favorite - Rainy Night in Georgia by Sam Moore and Conway Twitty
2. Robert Cray - Shame + a Sin. He brings it on every cut.
3. Radio Tarifa - Rumba Argelina - Spanish meets Moorish, meets contemporary African, meets European medieval. Nice rhythms, percussion and vocals.
4. Africa - - John Santos - Afro Latin Jazz Cuban Rumba & West African Chants - Some great Latin Musicians. Hear a Conch Shell played with style on Medicine Man.
5. Luis Conte - Cuban Dreams - In particular Drume Negrita , a sweet sounding Afro-Cuban Lullaby with ocean waves as back round. Nice Conga as well.

Just some of what I'm really enjoying. I play Congas (for fun) and love the latin instrumentation that I'm hearing in a whole new way with the Salks.
Thank you, Jim and all contributors to this wonderful circle.
 If anybody enjoys this type of stuff I have plenty more.
Mike
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: charmerci on 15 Feb 2014, 04:40 pm
Just a reminder - p. 57 has a summary list.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Vulcan00 on 19 Apr 2014, 06:32 pm
Hey guys,

I got this Linda Ronstadt album when it was released and I wanted to recommend it to my Salk friends:
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=97980)


It has some nice songs and they are very nicely recorded.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: smokey on 24 Apr 2014, 02:45 pm
 :D Has anyone listen to any of  MAPLESHADE CD:s all of their sound staging is great,I like JAZZ they have a lot of go listening,
      my SS8 jump to,  BOOGEYIN! SWAMPROCK, SALSA & TRANE by A LA CARTE BRASS & PERCUSSION ,   They really let the SS8:s
    show off what they can do   :thumb:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 7 May 2014, 09:42 pm
Hello,

Yes Mapleshade has been mentioned several times in the thread.

http://www.amazon.com/Round-Midnight-Linda-Ronstadt/dp/B000002H3S

If you like Linda Ronstadt her double CD with Nelson Riddle Orchestra.....released back in 1990 I think....its a wonderful set of songs from the big band time....and many of the cuts are just superb.

Round Midnight is my favorite.

Enjoy!

Alex

Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: thunderbrick on 8 May 2014, 02:50 am
Hello,
If you like Linda Ronstadt her double CD with Nelson Riddle Orchestra.....released back in 1990 I think....its a wonderful set of songs from the big band time....and many of the cuts are just superb.

You are sooooo right!
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Mudslide on 20 May 2014, 02:37 am
Hi all.  Great thread and I just (re)discovered it.  I'm sorry if my request has been addressed before but I don't have the time to read the hundreds of posts.

I'm looking for suggestions for a disc/band that primarily features piano and acoustic (or sweet electric) guitar.  All genres are acceptable.  TIA.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: strat95 on 20 May 2014, 04:31 am
Hi all.  Great thread and I just (re)discovered it.  I'm sorry if my request has been addressed before but I don't have the time to read the hundreds of posts.

I'm looking for suggestions for a disc/band that primarily features piano and acoustic (or sweet electric) guitar.  All genres are acceptable.  TIA.

When I read your post the first thought that came to mind was Pat Metheny and Brad Mehldau, the album was called Metheny Mehldau.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Mudslide on 20 May 2014, 01:39 pm
When I read your post the first thought that came to mind was Pat Metheny and Brad Mehldau, the album was called Metheny Mehldau.

Thanks, Strat.  I just checked it out, and it's quite good.  The song, Make Peace, is almost perfect for what I'm looking for.  I guess I want the music to feature the guitar over the piano in most cases.  It is generally the opposite on Metheny Mehldau.  But it's good stuff, nevertheless.  I'm going to download some of it.   :thumb:
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: jaw5279 on 20 May 2014, 09:07 pm
I'm looking for suggestions for a disc/band that primarily features piano and acoustic (or sweet electric) guitar.  All genres are acceptable.  TIA.

You may want to give some of the earlier Cat Stevens a try.  "Tea for the Tillerman" and "Teaser and the FireCat" come to mind.
 
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: strat95 on 21 May 2014, 12:10 am
Thanks, Strat.  I just checked it out, and it's quite good.  The song, Make Peace, is almost perfect for what I'm looking for.  I guess I want the music to feature the guitar over the piano in most cases.  It is generally the opposite on Metheny Mehldau.  But it's good stuff, nevertheless.  I'm going to download some of it.   :thumb:

Glad you like it Mudslide.  I enjoy Make Peace very much and although they don't fit your criteria because of drums, Ring Of Life (track 4) and Say the Brother's Name (track 7) are quite good too.  I do see what you are saying though that the guitar is not the 'feature' instrument on many of the other tracks.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Mudslide on 21 May 2014, 04:38 am
You may want to give some of the earlier Cat Stevens a try.  "Tea for the Tillerman" and "Teaser and the FireCat" come to mind.

Thanks, Jaw.  I'm not interested in vocals.  I would like instrumentals only (or mostly). 

Mud
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: jaw5279 on 23 May 2014, 08:16 pm
Thanks, Jaw.  I'm not interested in vocals.  I would like instrumentals only (or mostly). 

Mud

Ahh.  If that is the case, I would recommend Leo Kotke's 6 & 12 String Guitar (the one with the armadillo on the cover) or something by the California Guitar Trio. 

John.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Vulcan00 on 16 Mar 2015, 04:58 pm
This was my album of the year(2014):
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=116901)

This album has excellent bass and the guitars sound marvelous 8)! This made my Salk speakers come alive like being in the recording studio.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: SCompRacer on 16 Mar 2015, 10:40 pm
One of my desert island choices and demo albums on vinyl would be Talk Talk / Colour Of Spring. Hollis's nasally vocals have always set a hook in me. This album stepped away from the synthesized pop of their earlier albums. One of my fav tracks is the first, Happiness Is Easy. This track features drums, three percussionists, a wicked snare, weird chord, a very closely miked accoustic bass, electric bass, guitar, piano, Steve Winwood on a Hammond organ and a children's choir. The acoustic guitar and piano seem to dance gracefully in and out. On a good system some of the notes from the eight supporting musicians can be surprising; on a great system they can be startling.

Surprised Patty Larkin / Regrooving the Dream well recorded CD isn't mentioned. 'Hand Full of Water' features an acoustic guitar with notes that decay into tomorrow. 'When' has a blistering guitar and drum duel. 'Mink Coats,' haunting vocals and deep drum.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 27 Mar 2015, 10:13 am
Thanks for the recommendation!!

This thread has not seen a lot of activity in the past few months, so its good to see people post great sounding cds etc!!

All the best!
Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: S Clark on 27 Mar 2015, 01:27 pm
Surprised Patty Larkin / Regrooving the Dream well recorded CD isn't mentioned. 'Hand Full of Water' features an acoustic guitar with notes that decay into tomorrow. 'When' has a blistering guitar and drum duel. 'Mink Coats,' haunting vocals and deep drum.
Good choice.  Her "Angels Running" is usually cited more in audiophool circles, but "Regrooving" is also a very high quality cd.  It is especially good for listening for a wide sound stage. 
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: jimdgoulding on 27 Mar 2015, 01:54 pm
Now, I've got to find my Patty Larkin CD.  Might be "Angles Running" come to think about it.  Haven't listened to it in a very long time.  Thanks, Scomp, Scott.  Mapleshade has already been mentioned.  Ani DiFranco's "Up ,up, up, up, up" has terrific sound and imagery.  And this one has GOT to be in the running for great sound, "The Splendour of Al-Andalus" by Calamus on period instruments from M-A Recordings.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Frans on 29 Mar 2015, 02:47 pm
One of my desert island choices and demo albums on vinyl would be Talk Talk / Colour Of Spring.

The CD or SACD?
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Frans on 29 Mar 2015, 02:52 pm
Steven Wilson - Hand. Cannot. Erase.

Get the Blu-ray audio if you can, it's an audiophile's dream in addition to being a creative masterpiece.

http://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hand._Cannot._Erase.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: SCompRacer on 31 Mar 2015, 05:03 am
The CD or SACD?

I have it on vinyl and CD. Even though I built a real nice DAC, vinyl gets the nod for best sound here. ;)

Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Frans on 31 Mar 2015, 02:09 pm
I have it on vinyl and CD. Even though I built a real nice DAC, vinyl gets the nod for best sound here. ;)

Yes, the CD is unremarkable. The SACD however, is one of my favorite audiophile quality demo discs. It's that good. Just FYI in case you enjoy this album as much as I do.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: sfox7076 on 19 Oct 2015, 05:38 pm
Used Hour of the Bewilderbeast by Badly Drawn Boy this weekend.  It's an interesting test disc as it has a little of everything.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: ClarkFan on 21 Oct 2015, 02:56 pm
One to add:

http://archive.richardthompson-music.com/album.asp?id=74

Live recording of Richard Thompson with very good guitar sound.  The range of music is remarkable, too.

Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: poseidonsvoice on 8 Nov 2015, 03:59 am
One of my favorite cuts is from Blue Coast Records (the E.S.E. sessions), tracks 1 and 5 right here:

http://bluecoastrecords.downloadsnow.net/blue-coast-collection-remastered

Available in FLAC to Quad DSD, or CD.

Tremendous space, detail, timbre, etc...

Enjoy!

Anand.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: TWINSKI66 on 1 Nov 2017, 10:32 pm
Thanks for the music share about the group TALK TALK.  I bought The Colour of Spring & Spirit of Eden on 180g vinyl.  CDs were included (actually DVD-Audio discs).  These are fantastic albums....remarkable...in that they do not sound dated.  So happy to have found these through this thread.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: birbygdad on 2 Nov 2017, 06:04 am
Gregory Porter has a new record of Nat King Cole songs that is magnificent. Orchestral arrangements are wonderful. Listening on my present speakers but looking forward to my Song 3 speakers. Great music on any system.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: lokie on 2 Nov 2017, 12:36 pm
Martin Taylor- "Solo"

For Treble energy and all around smoothness.
 (http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=170624)

Bela Fleck and the Flecktones- "Flight of the Cosmic Hippo"

For deep bass and the sound of "rubbery" and 3 dimensional Bass.
 (http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=170625)

Jessica Williams- "Live at Yoshi's Vol. 1"

Covers the whole key board... up and down the scales sometimes simultaneously w the right and left hand. For me, there is also an emotional connection that I want to feel. It's almost like a few of the songs take you on a journey not unlike a long musical arrangement in a movie. A well recorded Live Jazz recording in a small room is a lot of fun on a good system.
 (http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=170626) .
 

Led Zeppelin- "Houses of the Holy"

OK, OK... not the greatest sounding album of all time but it's Rock and Roll... get over it. What it does have, that is of concern w an audiophile, is stop and start dynamics of epic proportions. The first drum and guitar blasts in "No Quarter" should put a giant smiling snarl on your face. This should not sound whimpy.
 (http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=170627) .

The Who- "Live at Leads- Remastered"

A Rock album that needs no excuses. All the players are exactly where they are supposed to be in the sound-stage. And it's live!.
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=170628)

 

Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 7 Nov 2017, 02:58 pm
Its great to see that people are starting to add to the list of outstanding demo cds!!
Thanks!

Just ordered the Who from Amazon!

Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: eriksven on 3 Dec 2017, 05:12 am
One of my favorite playlists is this "Songs to Test Headphones With" on Spotify.  Very eclectic.  The first song sounds really 3D with the right setup. Here's the link so you can see what's in there (or listen, if you can put up with 320kbps--I can't tell the difference).

https://open.spotify.com/user/spotify/playlist/37i9dQZF1DWZtZ8vUCzche#_=_
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 4 Dec 2017, 11:12 pm
eriksven,

Thanks for the link, its pretty neat and there are many of these selections I have never heard of.
Even at 320kbps at least u can listen and if you like the style you can always get the cd or look on other HD sites if
desired!

Thanks Again
Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 5 Dec 2017, 01:00 pm
Great playlist, thank you!
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: TWINSKI66 on 15 Jan 2018, 04:46 pm
This...
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=174577)

https://open.spotify.com/album/2OzqP2SxEB6mMZVQrJrVeT?si=rgIpfQGwTp-5VKGghdPOZA

Note:  One of countless examples from the ECM catalogue.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: mixsterdude on 27 Jan 2018, 05:33 am
This...
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=174577)

https://open.spotify.com/album/2OzqP2SxEB6mMZVQrJrVeT?si=rgIpfQGwTp-5VKGghdPOZA

Note:  One of countless examples from the ECM catalogue.

Twinski, thank you for that recommendation!!  That’s one of the best albums I’ve listened to in a while.  Just outstanding!

That Talk Talk album was a great recommendation by SCompRacer too!!
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 20 May 2018, 01:24 pm
Thanks for the recommendation of Talk Talk / Color of Spring....just got a copy from the A. and its indeed a very nice recording!!

Alex

 :D :lol: 8)
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: S Clark on 20 May 2018, 02:17 pm
Just did a search of this thread and was surprised to not find James Taylor's "Hourglass"
I think this is one of the best recordings of male vocals, and one that I use in evaluation... and overall his best recorded album.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 20 May 2018, 02:21 pm
Interesting.....will take a look at it.....Johnny Cash's American series has great male vocals IMO as well..

I do have October Road which IMO is nice as well.

Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 25 May 2018, 01:09 pm
Just got and ripped Patty Larkins "Regrooving the Dream"....very nice recording, works nicely in my system......thanks for the recommendation.....found it on discogs for $2.55!

Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: S Clark on 25 May 2018, 01:32 pm
Patty Larkin's stuff is well recorded and interesting music to boot.  James Taylor's Hourglass is a cd that just shows more layers and complexity as you put it on better gear.  I just changed out my Dodd tube amp to Folsom's chip amp for summer listening ( this week it's supposed to stay over 100* in my part of TX).  Hourglass really shows the differences in the two pieces of gear.  It's a great album to learn it's nuances.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 25 May 2018, 01:55 pm
Just put it on order, $4.50 including shipping!!

Alex
 :D
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 26 May 2018, 03:57 pm
Take a listen at this, its FREE online!!

It caught me by surprise that this good of quality and recording was streaming!!!
It show how simple accurate recording can be done!!!

IMO, its AWESOME!

Enjoy!
Alex


http://www.javonjackson.com/?audiotheme_record=threes-company-well-be-together-again
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 1 Jun 2018, 11:25 pm
Listening to Hourglass at the moment....very nice!
Thanks for the recommendation "S Clark"!

Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: abd1 on 1 Jun 2018, 11:48 pm
Do yourself a favor and check out Anour Brahem's Blue Maqams album on ECM w/ Dave Holland, Jack DeJohnette, and Django Bates. Best album find I've had in a long time. His other stuff is good too, especially The Astounding Eyes of Rita, but Blue Maqams is a great listen. Also available as MQA on Tidal if you're into that.

Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: S Clark on 2 Jun 2018, 11:58 am
Listening to Hourglass at the moment....very nice!
Thanks for the recommendation "S Clark"!

Alex
Most welcome, Alex.  As I said, take time to learn it, then put it on another system.  The vocals are very system sensitive as well as much of the percussion.  It's one of a handful that I find useful when evaluating gear.
 
On another note, this has turned into one of the best resource threads here at AC.  Just a thanks to Alex for keeping this thread current and active.
Regards,
Scott
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 7 Jun 2018, 07:26 pm
Just got this in and its very nice....Kasia Lins, Take My Tears....


(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=180996)

Enjoy!
Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: NHSkier on 7 Jun 2018, 09:10 pm
I'm liking Oscar Peterson Trio- We Take Requests from HDTracks and Bob James Trio- Straight Up (ripped from a CD) at the moment.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: DFpritchard on 8 Jun 2018, 07:35 pm
Lining up old favorites while waiting for Song3s to arrive:

Jazz Impressions of Black Orpheus Vince Guaraldi Trio on DCC Jazz GZS1042 (despite horrible feedback on Cast Your Fate to the Wind, Track 5)
Appalachian Journey, Yo-Yo Ma and Guests Sony Classical
Caledon Wood Al Petteway acoustic Guitar
Pictures at an Exhibition Eiji Oue and Minnesota Orchestra, Reference Recordings RR79
The Glory of Purcell, Christopher Hogwood Acad Ancient Music (esp. track 8 vocals)
Looking Back Tomorrow: Beausoleil Live! Rhino Records (track 1 to see if you have a pulse)
Eva Cassidy Live at Blues Alley Blix Records G2-10046 (bring a Kleenex)
Acoustic Guitars Out of the Blue Stunt Records
Frederick Fennell and Cleveland Symphonic Winds Telarc Digital
Grateful Dead Dick's Picks Vol 25 (great Estimated Prophet)
Led Zep II

Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: abd1 on 8 Jun 2018, 09:44 pm
I'm stuck listening to these albums on my Song3's:

Anouar Brahem, Blue Maqams


(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=181055)


Anouar Brahem, The Astounding Eyes of Rita


(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=181057)


Daughter, If You Leave

(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=181061)
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: S Clark on 8 Jun 2018, 10:55 pm
Lining up old favorites while waiting for Song3s to arrive:

Jazz Impressions of Black Orpheus Vince Guaraldi Trio on DCC Jazz GZS1042 (despite horrible feedback on Cast Your Fate to the Wind, Track 5)
Appalachian Journey, Yo-Yo Ma and Guests Sony Classical
Caledon Wood Al Petteway acoustic Guitar
Pictures at an Exhibition Eiji Oue and Minnesota Orchestra, Reference Recordings RR79
The Glory of Purcell, Christopher Hogwood Acad Ancient Music (esp. track 8 vocals)
Looking Back Tomorrow: Beausoleil Live! Rhino Records (track 1 to see if you have a pulse)
Eva Cassidy Live at Blues Alley Blix Records G2-10046 (bring a Kleenex)
Acoustic Guitars Out of the Blue Stunt Records
Frederick Fennell and Cleveland Symphonic Winds Telarc Digital
Grateful Dead Dick's Picks Vol 25 (great Estimated Prophet)
Led Zep II
I've heard several Led Zep II, including a R.L. version, but none I'd call "Outstanding Demo" quality. Some of the others are choices I'm familiar with and agree with the excellence of the recordings.  Which Zeppelin version are you listening to?
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: DFpritchard on 9 Jun 2018, 12:38 am
The Atlantic R2-535225 re-release.  You got me: it's not a sonic masterpiece but Living Loving Maid does get my toes tapping.  Always a worthwhile criterion.  Speaking of which:

Moe, Hava Nagilah

Bruce Cockburn: The Charity of Night.

Rusted Root Cruel Sun

Kartik Seshadri Illuminations
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Ern Dog on 9 Jun 2018, 01:14 am
Here's some great sounding recent favorites:

-Mathew Barber, The Family Album
- Amelia Curran, They Promised You Mercy
- Laura Marling, Semper Femina
- Liz Longley, Liz Longley
- Maggie Rogers, Now That the Light is Fading
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 20 Jun 2018, 01:01 pm
Eva Cassidy's Live at Blues Alley is indeed very nice.

Most of her other "studio" albums are pretty well done too.

Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: WGH on 20 Jun 2018, 05:49 pm
Steve Tibbetts - Life Of

(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51NFBhAFhHL.jpg)

The latest Steve Tibbetts album is very meditative, probably good for the last song of the evening with the lights very low, but everyone will leave impressed. I have the 24bit - 88.2kHz album from HD Tracks.

Life Of is Stereophile's Record of the Month - 5 stars for performance, 5 stars for sonics
The Stereophile article is a good read: https://www.stereophile.com/content/recording-july-2018-life (https://www.stereophile.com/content/recording-july-2018-life)

"Tibbetts primarily records in his self-built studio, using two microphones, a Mojave and a Neumann, set up to record an acoustic guitar. "They haven't moved in years. Using an unmatched pair seemed like the right thing to do. The Mojave worked well at the 12-string's sound hole, the Neumann made a home looking at the 12th fret." He also resists EQ or compression, the tradeoff being that "the music can sound a little dull, like the speakers are wrapped in muslin."

"This mannered approach has resulted in a soft, glowing sound that manages to capture plenty of detail and character across a deep, wide soundstage. Some moments—as when Anderson adds a deep drum pulse, then moves to a hazy wash of cymbal—will flex your speakers or headphones, and add just the right amount of grunt to keep it interesting."
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Tone Depth on 22 Jun 2018, 01:11 am
Just streamed it on my vintage speakers. I can hear why you are so impressed with the album.  :thumb:

Steve Tibbetts - Life Of

(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51NFBhAFhHL.jpg)

Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: JerryM on 24 Jun 2018, 07:04 pm
Outstanding, in every sense of the word.

(http://tommyemmanuel.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/Accomplice-One.png)

Tommy Emmanuel - Accomplice One  Samples (https://www.amazon.com/Accomplice-One-Tommy-Emmanuel/dp/B076ML49Z8)
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Bob Stark on 24 Jun 2018, 08:10 pm
The Christian McBride album 'Getting' To It' has a supercut for bass.  Christian is playing the a bass solo on the last cut, Night Train.  It is THE most stupendous bass cut I've ever heard.  You can hear every nuance of the standup bass.  I'm a lover of Stanley Clarke, Victor Wooten, Brian Bromberg, Marcus Miller, etc.  The rest of the album is also good, but that one cut is worth the price of admission by itself.

John McLaughlin Trio's 'Que Alegria' is an awesome sounding disc with a whole lot going on in percussion in addition to McLaughlin's guitar playing and the bass.  A lot of fun on this one.

Josefine Cronholm album 'Wild Garden' is beautifully recorded with very nice music.  Very easy to listen to and it grows on you.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 24 Jun 2018, 10:27 pm
Tommy Emmanuel..CGP!!

What else is there to say about this guy!!

I have been able to see him play twice in a small venue, front row and both times it was awesome ideed to hear him and see him play...what a wonderful person.

I got to see Chet Atkins once before I heard of Tommy....Chet was Tommy's idle and mentor here in the states in those early years.

I will have to get this one!

Thanks
Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 24 Jun 2018, 10:29 pm
I have the Wild Garden selection and its very nice as well!!

Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 11 Jul 2018, 09:36 pm
I have a few demo cd's and was looking for some older pop stuff that was well recorded etc...with sooo many remakes and re-masters out there its hard to find the really good ones.

Recently I was looking for a group called "Bread"

I looked around and found this one:

It may not be your kind od music but the recording is a great example of
how well some of the old stuff was recorded....great depth, you can hear inside
the songs...really sweet to me!

Alex

(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=182367)




Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: martyo on 12 Jul 2018, 06:42 pm
They were the "I want to make it with you" band. :lol: I'm glad it's a good recording for you.
They were so not what we were into back in the day. It was probably classified as soft rock.

Anyway,  It's very cool what you're thread has become, very much appreciated. This entry did give me a chuckle,  thanks

Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 12 Jul 2018, 09:42 pm
Thanks Martyo,

Its nice to share good music with all!!

I am listening to some Beach Boys stuff but not sure if it meets the "demo" standard...

Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Hydro on 13 Jul 2018, 03:44 pm
The Papa Doo Run Run California Project is a first class recording of a Beach Boys cover band. They might do the Beach Boys better than the Beach Boys, I know heresy. Came out in the mid 80's and was one of my first cd's. Still listen to it.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 14 Aug 2018, 12:24 am
Just got the Papa Do Run Project for $1.00 and its pretty good...not the Beach Boys but well recorded and still made me smile!

Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: birbygdad on 6 Sep 2018, 04:36 pm
Last night I listened to the 50th Anniversary Music From Big Pink CD. We are all likely familiar with the music; I've listened to it for those fifty years. This re-mastering is very good throughout and in places is simply exceptional. Definitely worth the price of the CD. (Belles, AVA, Marantz, Song 3).
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: birbygdad on 11 Sep 2018, 09:11 pm
Let me add one more (for now): Metro Express. Metro is a four man group playing rock/jazz instrumentals. I found it because one of the fellows was Chuck Loeb. I appreciate his playing in whatever setting and here he lets it fly. He died in 2017 from cancer. The record is perhaps a bit on the processed side but it will work the mids very nicely. Check out cut 7.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: luckyguy on 12 Sep 2018, 08:54 pm
My first rec on this thread hope you like it.  Yuko Maruyama In Tone Nation includes some great jazz classics.  This CD was recorded uncompressed--just listen to the clarity and expressiveness deep into her key strokes:  https://yukomaruyama.com/music/
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 12 Oct 2018, 10:56 pm
luckyguy thanks for the recommendation!

I am listening to it right now....very nice.

All the best
Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 19 Oct 2018, 01:33 pm
Just discovered this one...its excellent!

Bob Reynolds, Quartet.

https://bobreynolds.bandcamp.com/album/quartet'

Great intimate Jazz....

Enjoy!
Alex

(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=185659)
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 19 Oct 2018, 01:40 pm
Take a look and listen!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aytG-itz5dU&feature=youtu.be

Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: bluemeanies on 19 Oct 2018, 02:33 pm
Just released on TIDAL AND SPOYIFY.
B&W Ultimate Playlist
TIDAL
https://bw.social/2MA8fiy
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Upgraydd on 17 Nov 2018, 01:37 am
The Great Organ of Saint Eustache - Jean Guillou - Dorian DOR-90134
I put my Song3aA through paces with this. IT IS NUTS.  I turned it up too loud once and wound up with mild PTSD I think.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Saturn94 on 17 Nov 2018, 04:18 am
The Great Organ of Saint Eustache - Jean Guillou - Dorian DOR-90134
I put my Song3aA through paces with this. IT IS NUTS.  I turned it up too loud once and wound up with mild PTSD I think.

Is this it?

https://www.amazon.com/Great-Organ-St-Eustache-Paris/dp/B000001Q8H
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: JDoyle on 17 Nov 2018, 04:25 pm
Just released on TIDAL AND SPOYIFY.
B&W Ultimate Playlist
TIDAL
https://bw.social/2MA8fiy

I found this on Tidal, but I can’t find it using Roon/Tidal... it would be nice to add this to my Roon reference cuts playlist. I’ll have to listen first and then search and add afterwards I guess

I stand corrected, I added to my collection in Tidal and I now see it in Roon as a playlist! Never did this before, pretty cool 😎

JD
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: JDoyle on 17 Nov 2018, 04:35 pm
Is this it?

https://www.amazon.com/Great-Organ-St-Eustache-Paris/dp/B000001Q8H

I’ll guess yes... I just found it myself on Roon/Tidal and added it to my library. I’m really looking forward to listening to this one later on this weekend  :thumb:

JD
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Saturn94 on 17 Nov 2018, 05:47 pm
I’ll guess yes... I just found it myself on Roon/Tidal and added it to my library. I’m really looking forward to listening to this one later on this weekend  :thumb:

JD

Thanks. :)
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: mevans on 5 May 2019, 09:47 pm
Let It Go - Clair Marlo  -- Sheffield Lab (gold)

Big Notes - Flim and the BB's -- DMP (gold)

Tricycle - Flim and the BB's -- DMP (gold)

This Guy's in Love With You -- Arthur Prysock -- Milestone

Persuasions -- Persuasions Sing the Beatles -- Chesky

Title: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: wout31 on 13 Sep 2019, 08:09 am
I don't know if any of these items have ever been pointed out in this thread as I'm not allowed to search in the thread.   :(

My favourite tracks to test my 2-channel system is with fifties recordings that have not been contaminated with all kinds of digital gimmicks (maybe a few in re-mastering)
Looking at that period, the Capitol, RCA en CBS recordings always stand out. With Capitol at the asbolute top.

To mention a few:
My man - Peggy Lee. To see if your system is able to let you hear the difference between a kick drum and a string bass that are very close and on the same channel.
There is no sweet man that's worth the salt of my tears - Peggy Lee. That voice (in all of her songs) is simple magic and very well recorded for the time thanks to Olson and his design of RCA mics.
Isle of Capri - Frank Sinatra. The roar of those drums gives me goose bumps every time I play it. And that "just behind the beat" singing of Frankie is unmatched
Just walking in the rain - (gentleman) Jim Reeves. That very low RCA bass and the rock solid recording of that magic voice.

In the "old" recordings on the other side of the ocean Decca is a name worth mentioning and Parlophone (EMI) as second.
You don't know - Billy Fury
I'm looking out the window - Cliff Richard (original by Peggy Lee has more feel to it, but is too old for me to be a fine recording)

OK, for some more modern material
Bubbles - Yosi Horikawa. Nice playing with all kinds of ball sounds. Can you point them all out?
Draw your swords - Agnus and Julia Stone (by the end of the song it gets too messy the rest if fine)
Walking on the moon - Yuri Honing
Maze - Olaf Stuut
Die Tänzerin - Ulla Meinecke (sings in German, so not everybody's cup of coffee. But very nice electronic sound and beautiful decay in here singing)
Nardis - Patricia Barber. Drum solo, drum solo and drum solo. Please search for the unmastered version
Misa Criola: Kyrie - Mercedes Sosa. The space around that chorus, the lead voice and the delicate instruments

Sure there are plenty more good tracks, but I keep coming back to most of these over and over again.
Enjoy your music.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: charmerci on 13 Sep 2019, 03:48 pm
I don't know if any of these items have ever been pointed out in this thread as I'm not allowed to search in the thread.   :(



Page 57 has a two post summary Fishinbob made of the previous CD's.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: wout31 on 14 Sep 2019, 06:46 pm
I'm a bit confused here.
The initial request was:
"I am looking more towards the traditional 2 CD stereo CD's....the ones that are really well produced, mixed  and have great dynamic range."
Looking at the list on page 57 I see several discs that may give some people a good feeling but do surely not meet any of the criteria mentioned in bold above. Or I might have the wrong CD release :(
Maybe I don't understand or the criteria have changed over time this thread is running?
I always relate to a specific track, not a complete CD. Because for me the track also has to be a well written, good arranged song before I can go and listen to the more technical side.
But hey, that's just me.
Enjoy the music.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: S Clark on 14 Sep 2019, 08:39 pm
You are probably right that not every recording on that list belongs, but most do.  Take for what it is, a collection of recommendations from lots of people with varied taste and interpretations if the qualifier "Outstanding"
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 20 Sep 2019, 07:59 pm
Hello Guys and Gals

I havent posted here in awhile...but I have looked in from time to time...

Spending my time minding the Headphone Mania circle.

I auditioned some stuff locally and heard a CD that made my hair stand up it was so good!

Patricia Barber's Verse.

Outstanding, 10 out of a 10.

It may not be your taste in music but it will rock the socks off in imagery, tonality....percussion, human voice ....absolutley wonderful.

Guys at the local audio store gave it to me for listening ...

I bought it immediately:

https://www.allmusic.com/album/verse-mw0000223867

Enjoy!
Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: kclark0395 on 2 Jan 2020, 02:37 am
"Verse" is one pf my favorite Patricia Barber releases but anything by her is going to sound amazing. Modern Cool on LP is another fantastic release. Living near Chicago I've seen her live performance several times and the musicianship is incredible.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: golddustpeak on 2 Jan 2020, 01:51 pm
Haas anyone heard  “Something Colorful” by the Daniel Glass Trio?
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: adydula on 2 Jan 2020, 02:09 pm
I'm a bit confused here.
The initial request was:
"I am looking more towards the traditional 2 CD stereo CD's....the ones that are really well produced, mixed  and have great dynamic range."
Looking at the list on page 57 I see several discs that may give some people a good feeling but do surely not meet any of the criteria mentioned in bold above. Or I might have the wrong CD release :(
Maybe I don't understand or the criteria have changed over time this thread is running?
I always relate to a specific track, not a complete CD. Because for me the track also has to be a well written, good arranged song before I can go and listen to the more technical side.
But hey, that's just me.
Enjoy the music.

Understand what your saying wout31.

The original intent of mine when I started this list was to find really well recorded and mastered 2 channel stereo recordings while waiting for my Salk Songtowers to arrive. I was curious to what other enthusiats were listening to that they thought were really outstanding CD's...and yes ome might not live up to ones expectations for many reasons, but everyones expectations are not alike and we all have tastes and hear things diffrently.

Over time I believe most of whats in this thread are good examples of good material and depending on what your looking for in a well recorded and mastered recording some will be better than others. My music tastes vary widely and some of the stuff on the list I just do not like, but they still may be very well produced. Accuracy, soundstage, imaging from mic'ing, tonality, compression and soooo many other things come into play.

The thread was started just to share "good stuff" with the members and I think it has done this well over time.

Also there are differences in the same material from original release and format to re-releases and mastering for sure....

Welcome to the circle and like uou say:

"Enjoy The Music!!"

Alex
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: CL418 on 4 Jan 2020, 05:26 pm
Alex,

That is a good summary - and, being a newbie, is the reason I joined this site.  Getting some music ideas from fellow listeners.

If we stay on CD format music, I also like a wide variety of music.  For some amazing production, I would suggest most any of the Todd Garfinckle productions on his label, m-a recordings.  A lot of them are very high resolution digital recordings that sound very good.  I first read about them in a Herb Reichert review in Stereophile.  The sound of the space in which they were recorded is what I listen for when I hear a new system.

For dynamics, I have a number of friends who use Telarc recordings of the 1812 Overture or the Firebird Suite.  They sound pretty digital to me, but they sure are dynamic!  I just use jazz combos or rock that is really well recorded and play at room filling volume.  Dynamics to me is just the realistic sound of individual instruments that crescendo in a realistic way.

Regards, CHRIS
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: charmerci on 6 May 2020, 04:22 am
It's been a while since I've heard it - but just recently I had it on again. Very impressive!  :o
Ben Webster - At the Renaissance
(Straight ahead mainstream live jazz)
385,000+ views!
(Since this thread has slowed down, maybe someone can take the lists from p.57 and update the rest since and post a new list?)
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Jeff in the D on 15 Dec 2021, 05:43 pm
Listening to New York Trio, their CD "The Things We Did Last Summer", track #3, "How Long Has This Been Going On" and track #4, "How High the Moon". Quite excellent.  But then again, I feel the entire CD to be excellent. Enjoy.
cheers,
Jeff
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: wilbur_the_goose on 21 Dec 2021, 04:33 pm
John Mayer concert Blu Ray disc - "Vultures".
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Jeff in the D on 7 Jan 2022, 08:47 pm
Listening to New York Trio again, their CD "Blues In the Night", track #5- "My Funny Valentine", track #7- "Embraceable You", track #8-  "Don't Explain", very nice.  The entire CD is quite good. Perfect to show off your system.

cheers,
Jeff
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Jeff in the D on 17 Jan 2022, 08:37 pm
Listening to Kool & Klean Volume 1, (AKA Konstantin Klashtorni). I like all of this CD but especially the track "The Sea". Love the bass line and subtle layering of detail. It's Jazz (of the Smooth flavor I guess), but there's this hint of Electronica or Trance, cant quite put my finger on it. Makes for great audio to show off your 2 channel system.

Jeff
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: bkatbamna on 17 Jan 2022, 10:00 pm
https://www.amazon.com/Bernard-Herrmann-Film-Scores/dp/B000641MAW

Excellent sonics and great music.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Jeff in the D on 24 Jan 2022, 06:35 pm
Listening to Paul Hardcastle VII. Well produced and engineered, at least IMHO. Especially track #3, Summer Love. Sounds a whole lot like Kool and the Gang's "Summer Madness" which anyone from SE Michigan will recognize as the late night radio host Alan Almond's theme (WNIC late night Adult radio program Pillow Talk).
Sounds fantastic on my SS8s.

Jeff
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: dwmaggie on 24 Jan 2022, 08:34 pm
And now for something completely different.....
The Rounder Subcompact Disc Volume 2,  Rockin' Roots.   Very well recorded, very good dynamic range and dynamics, performances top notch.
Back on the other hand.....
Berlioz: Symphonie Fantastique, op. 14.   Track 4 is especially difficult for amps and speakers, starts at a very low level and progresses to bombastic dynamics and very loud passages.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Jeff in the D on 1 Feb 2022, 07:50 pm
Listening to Melody Gardot, Sunset in the Blue, nice album, well recorded. Especially enjoyed her duet with Gordon Sumners (aka Sting). This may not be an "outstanding demo cd" but it's very good nonetheless.

Jeff
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Highendfool on 8 Jul 2022, 06:26 pm
Eric Kunzel and the Cincinnati Pops orchestra- Time Warp (Telarc)
Use caution with the volume!!
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: Hydro on 17 May 2023, 02:31 am
Cat Stevens "Tea for the Tillerman 2". Fantastic recording and a fresh take on some good old tunes.
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: rowdyrobot on 17 May 2023, 03:15 am
Ennio Morricone - The Thing (2020 remaster on Quartet Records)
Title: Re: Outstanding Demo CD's etc...
Post by: snaimpally on 6 Dec 2023, 01:48 am
Hugh Masekala - Hope [The recording quality is superb, especially for a live album. The kick drum is RIGHT THERE.]

George Benson - Giblet Gravy [Superb imaging]

Yello - Any album - Indigo Bay (on The Eye - great test of bass)

Cowboy Junkies - Trinity Sessions (recorded in Toronto's Trinity Church)

Peter Gabriel - So [On Sledgehammer, just before it fades, Manu Katche repeatedly hits a crash cymbal, which is a great challenge for any tweeter]

Diana Krall - Live In Paris [Brilliant recording - I feel like I am in the concert hall when listening to the CD]