Comprehensive Organic Functional Groups Transformations, Vol. 1. A.r.katritzky, R.j.k.taylor, 2005

One of Bach's more magnificent extended choruses graces the cantata BWV 12, and another less substantial but no less impressive one dominates BWV 38. These works represent some of Bach's most profoundly affecting and musically sophisticated textual and emotional representations, the former an ideal evocation of "weeping and wailing" with its unmistakably vivid chromatic descending bass-line, lurching rhythm, and agonized melody (which Bach later re-used in his B minor Mass). The pungent, reedy sound of the oboe adds perfect color and character to the whole cantata, and of course, Bach's ingenious writing, especially the obbligato parts, lifts all three of these cantatas beyond the functional to the highest artistic and spiritual level.

Music from King Gene And His Orchestra, Oscar McLollie & His Orchestra, Wini Beatty And Her Trio, Al "Stomp" Russell Trio, Ernie Lewis' All Stars, Joe Lutcher & His Orchestra, Maxine Reed, Johnny Creach Quintet, Sammy Franklin's Orchestra, Fran Harris & Her Four Friends, and more - 24 songs in all.

As samplers go, this is one of the best. An excellent cross section of artists from the Stockfish catalog. I am especially taken by the cuts from Alan Taylor ("The Beat Hotel" in particualr) and Chris Jones. Sonics are clean, clear and crisp, with an exceptional sense of timbre. I've purchased a few of the CD's of the artists I've heard on this sampler, and I'm here to tell you, they sound great to - though they can't beat these SACD tracks.

Mary J. Blige, the legendary Grammy and Golden Globe winning and Oscar nominated singer-songwriter will release a collection of her biggest 1990s hits along with rare remixes, HERstory, Vol. 1, on 6 December via UMe.