Storm

I bought this album in 1998 in Taiwan, about a year before it was released in the USA. I listened to it regularly for nearly two years before listenings became infrequent. Most CDs, even ones I really like, become listened to infrequently within a couple months, which shows how spectacular this CD is that it would last so long.

I don't know how to limit my acclaim for this album within the maximum number of words Amazon.com allows. To do so will require leaving out vast amounts of what I have to say about this album. So mostly all I can do is summarize.

This album is powerful emotionally: it has a range of emotions from peaceful to frenetic, from grandiose to dramatic. The sources of music vary, from classical compositions by Bach and Vivaldi to folk music to Donna Summer's "I Feel Love," to songs that are probably original compositions for the album. Though the styles vary considerably, the album does not at all feel disjointed; it is a dynamic, complete, emotional journey.

I have other albums by Vanessa Mae. My first album of hers was "The Violin Player." I really liked the opening Bach track on that, but the rest was more like background music. Her third crossover album, "Subject To Change," is better than "The Violin Player," still rather background but not as much. But this second album, "Storm," is FOREGROUND music all the way! The recording, the playing are all up front! And speaking of the playing, her violin playing on this album is intense! The other two albums seem so dull in comparison. Speaking of comparisons, "Storm" whips Bond's album "Born" too (I haven't heard Bond's new one). That album is lively but lacks creativity or variety. "Storm" is far, far superior to these other albums.

My favorite tracks: "Storm," which is fast, furious, and powerful! -- Vivaldi like it was meant to be!! "Bach Street Prelude" is bouncy and energetic, also the best performance by far I've ever heard of this song. "I Feel Love" has beautiful vocals and killer violin jamming. There are more songs I like too, but space is so limited.

I could go on and on about this album; I've barely scratched the surface. If you like Vanessa Mae, Bond, or other crossover classical, you ABSOLUTELY MUST get this album!!! And even if you're not into crossover classical (my main musical interests are rap, dance, World Beat, and alternative rock), but love a variety of music, you will certainly find this album astounding.

Hunt for this album--it will be well worth the hunt.