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Hidden Audiophile Classics

Just about every audiophile has a few "hidden" classics - you know those great sounding recordings that never seem to appear on any super disc or recommended recordings list published in the high end audio press. Well there's no need for them to remain a secret - so how about sharing some of them with your fellow 'philes out here. My first contribution to the this thread is Lyle Lovett's "Step Inside This House" a great sounding 2 CD set from back in 1998 which while well reviewed, never recieved any praises for it's truly excellent sound. A studio recording of Lovett and his "small" band covering other songwriters tunes, the recording sounds like it was done "live" in the studio. The playing is tight and the personel remains fairly constant throughout - which is always a good sign. What are some of your "hidden" gems??
ralphp_nj
mfontana
23 posts
 
The Hunter by Jennifer Warnes. In my opinion much better than her Famous Blue Raincoat which was on everbodys list 10 or 12 years ago. This is a clean and dynamic recording it shows what a cd can sound like when recorded right.
dekay's avatar
dekay
5,555 posts
 
Paul Winter and Friends "Celtic Solstice". Earth Music Productions 1999, manufactured and distributed for The Windham Hill Group by BMG Distribution. From the box; "An historic convergence of Irish and American Musicians within the Magnificent Space of the World's Largest Cathedral". Recorded at St. Paul's Cathedral, NY. I usually take this one along to audition gear. I like it, and so do the salespeople.
zenaudio
30 posts
 
This CD had great songs recorded incredibly. Everytime I take this in to the snob shops, they still look down there nose at me but all ask about this CD and actually buy it. You won't be disappointed! Mike
pcs
109 posts
 
The Cheiftans: The Long Black Veil-- An interesting mix of traditional Irish tunes with guest appearances by Mark Knoppfler, The Rolling Stones,Tom Jones, Van Morrison, Ry Cooder and others. Recording quality is good as well. A regular part of my new equipment audition CD's along with Cowboy Junkies, The Trinity Sessions and Marc Cohn, Walking in Memphis.
trelja
3,223 posts
 
Francis Dunnery's "Tall Blond Helicopter". Doubt many will know about him, but he is THE best undiscovered star out there. Album, produced by Atlantic, is first rate in so many ways. If you want to hear a singer songwriter with cojones, this is the guy. A Scottish import who splits most of his time between NYC and Philadelphia.
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