Riverside Organ Is Stretched to Its Limits in This One - - -
The Skeezicks | Lower Skookumsquatsch, USA | 12/14/2002
(5 out of 5 stars)
"If you like flamboyant, this CD will blow your skirt right up there! The dynamic range of the music in this CD will test your stereo system to the limits. Every part of the organ is used, from the shyest Kleine Erzähler to what must be a Double Bombarde.The songs showcase the organ and are played flawlessly, even if somewhat ambitiously interpreted. If you're tired of hearing the Little Fugue in G Minor played like a funeral dirge on a worn-out calliope, then you'll appreciate what Fox does with it on the big Aeolian-Skinner. Absolutely incredible! On the other hand, I personally would have enjoyed C.M. Widor's Toccata from the 5th taken a little slower. Perhaps Virgil was running late for supper or had to go to the bathroom when performing this one, 'cause it could stand a little Largo to let the notes pop out. Nevertheless, it shows what "Nimble-Fingers" can do.Technically, the CD is flawless, except for some low-level noise heard during the quieter interludes when the volume is up. Ideally, there should be no noise here at all but what do you want for coming from 40-year-old tape masters??? That one flaw is vastly overshadowed by the excellent stereo separation and extreme dynamic range, with absolutely no rumble or flutter to be heard.The CD includes a couple of the better-known pieces, and the lesser-known ones are equally interesting. Can't go wrong with this CD, but don't expect to get much out of it in your car CD player due to the wide dynamic range and the inherent noise in the car (unless of course you're driving a Mercedes)!!"
Rock with Bach and Virgil Fox
Dr. James R. Kilpatrick | Texas | 12/08/1999
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Having heard in live performances the late Virgil Fox, he capivated the audience when he performed in person almost every one of the compositions contained in this amazing and wonderful CD. I play it several times a week. In all probably, the CD will be used as prelude and postlude music at my own funeral because the CD is so lively, happy and passionate to the listener."
Outstanding organ program
Thomas A. Marney | Salem, Oregon United States | 02/06/2001
(5 out of 5 stars)
"This is the first album of organ music I ever bought back in the days of vinyl. I have always loved it, I practically wore it out. Mr. Fox was the teacher of a friend of mine and I got to hear him once. His program here is varied and the sound is excellent. He did a lot for the advancement of organ music in the USA, we owe him a huge debt. Warmly recommended."
My favorite classical music album
R. Brough | 09/30/2006
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I first listened to this entire set of music on cassette in 1983 and prior to that I heard parts of it on a CBC radio program called "Gilmour's Albums" in 1979. It remains my most favorite classical music album. The range of sounds coming from the organ and the interpretation of each piece is wonderful. Having this music still available after nearly 50 years, and on CD no less, is a tribute to Fox and his outstanding talent."