Les Reed
The New World of Les Reed
"On this album, predominantly made up of very popular classical melodies, Les Reed has recruited an orchestra of symphonic proportions, chosen from the cream of London's world-respected recording musicians. Les himself, played piano and electric piano throughout, and other notable soloists to be heard are guitarist - Alan Parker, organist - Steve Gray, (featured in "Also Sprach Zarathustra"), trombonist, Don Lusher, who takes solo limelight in "Carmen", and oboist - Bob Efford, who contributed some outstanding playing in "Swan Lake". Presenting classical themes in a style and guise slightly different from the strictly traditional one, often gives rein to accusations of disrespect and distortion, but the pristine beauty of the music chosen by Les for this album, remains in full in these imaginative and sympathetic arrangements. He knows, like all skilful musicians, that great melodies speak eloquently for themselves without need of additional frills and furbelows, and he has avoided such superfluities. All that is different is the presence of the modern rhythm section, emphasizing and enhancing the innate pulse of this immortal music, in a totally respectful and compatible manner with a light Latin lacing. Nothing is overdone or exaggerated, and "The New World of Les Reed" is an exciting, stimulating and completely satisfying one
01 Also Sprach Zarathustra
02 Romeo and Juliet
03 Habanera/Seguidilla (from Carmen)
04 18th Variation (on a Theme By Paganini)
05 Swan Lake
06 Nimrod (Enigma Variations Opus 36)
07 Sleighride (From Lt. Kije Suite)
08 The New World Symphony (Last Movement)
09 Samson and Delilah
10 2nd Movement 5th Symphony
11 Nocturne In "E" Flat
