Forward March!
Yankee Colonel | Fredericksburg, Virginia United States | 05/03/2005
(5 out of 5 stars)
"FORWARD MARCH! is an enjoyable and stimulating album which provides an unusual mix of traditional marches and not often heard compositions.
The United States Army Band is magnificent in its superb technical presentation of the broad spectrum of music contained on the CD and that unquestionably makes it worth acquiring.
Altissimo! Recordings once again educates listeners, as it did in HAIL TO THE CHIEF, by exposing them to pieces which have historical as well as musical significance. It carefully points out those works which are parade marches versus concert marches --- describing the Washington Grays as the "forerunner" of the latter.
The documentation which accompanies the CD provides a brief but tantalizing sense of who or what prompted the composition. Consequently, a far better appreciation for each selection is the result. The overall effect is a noteworthy collection of thoroughly enjoyable music for all to hear!
FORWARD MARCH! is a must for those who enjoy the uplifting of spirit which the march as a style of music provides!
"
Altissimo! Finally Has a Winner!
Roger Kennedy | 08/01/2005
(4 out of 5 stars)
"Finally a CD from Altissimo! of decent length with a solid march program. Instead of the usual patriotic dribble that we normally get on this label at last we have some real marches!Many of the selections are well known, but there are a few gems here. The performances are first-rate as to be expected by this premier band. For a change it looks like Altissimo! put together a winner from the extensive library of the bands' recorded music. Most likely none of the pieces played here are current recordings, but are taken from the bands own library which is what Altissimo! does with all of their products. In other words this is not an original recording. Still, the material is good and worthwhile. The program notes are better than usual as well. Altissimo! is slowly getting more professional in their products. Its been a gradual process indeed!"
A pleasant surprise from the Army Band.
Bruce E. Tipton | Vacaville CA USA | 08/14/2005
(5 out of 5 stars)
"The Forward March CD is a great collection of marches. I have listened to the CD three times in the last few weeks and my students have replayed the CD over and over at the band room. A worthwhile addition to your library."