Customer Reviews

Essence of the Forest

5 star:		(7)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(1)
1 star:		(1)

 

 

Deep Forest's greatest hits collection finally sees a stateside release, albeit with a drastically different tracklisting to its import counterparts. While imports versions tend to be better in this case neither version is truly satisfactory. The US release offers Deep Forest's biggests hits "sweet lullaby" (in a slightly remixed form) and "marta's song" as well smart choices like "ekue ekue" and "twosome." These songs really showcase the act's ability create modern vocal pop songs from ethnic chants and old folk songs. The US collection sadly omits the duo's collaboration with Peter Gabriel on "while the earth sleeps." Neither domestic nor import release give a nod to "Pacifique" - the soundtrack they scored. The US tracklisting works well despite its noticeable omissions. It does try to make up with the inclusion of the Deep forest remix of "undecided" for artist Youssou N'dour. If you are a casual fan of deep forest or relaxing world music this is a great hits package. For fans of the group this album may be a huge disappointment and it may be worth seeking out one of the 2 import versions that exists.

Beautiful re-arrangements of traditional African ballads with solid harmonious orchestration. This is my first exposure to Deep Forest and if what the more experienced reviewers are saying, not their best work, I can't wait to explore more. Perhaps not the best choice, but "Essence" has me wanting more of this group's work.

I bought this cd a year and a half ago not really knowing much about the group except for their song Sweet Lullaby. I was not disappointed, I love this cd!! It is now one of my most played cds I own!! It will be a cd that will always be in my music collection. Some people don't get into music they cant understand the words too, but I think that is one of the more beautiful sides to the album. I have also purchased Boheme and will purchase more of their cds the duo has recorded.

Deep Forest's "Essence of the Forest" is a very good retrospective of the material that Deep Forest has released from their 1992 self-titled debut to their 2002 album "Music Detected". Spanning 15 tracks, "Essence" is a very well-assembled collection for those who are seeking a strong introduction to Deep Forest's music. Veteran fans who already have their studio albums may not find much new material on here save for newer versions of the songs that were on their first album. For some reason, I wonder why they decided to re-do the original tracks. Did they hate the originals? Though collectively speaking, it had overall decent results, it kind of makes on miss out on the original versions. However my favorite remix is their 2004 rendition of the stunning "Night Bird". The original song is a stunning beauty but this updated version brings a lively updated sound that makes the original version proud. This version has a heavier and more pulsating beat and more intense ambient sound. The fundamental mood of the track is hardly altered. Of all the remakes, the "Night Bird 2004" is easily my favorite one. The remakes of "Sweet Lullaby", and "Desert Walk" are enjoyable without being spectacular updates. Also included are the live version of "Green and Blue" which I think is superior to the excellent original. The original is wonderful but the live version of the track improves it by light years. Also included is a track called "Undecided" which never saw any release on any of their U.S. releases. It is a very good track and brings the collection to a wonderful close. Also featured is Senegalese singer Youssou N'Dour whose presence adds to this track. Overall, "Essence" is a marvelous collection. The bonuses are enough to render it a great purchase for completists. Newbies should definitely buy this CD and then expand their Deep Forest collection from there.

I got this CD because it was playing in the CD store.
Deep Forest I reconized, even that the track Desert Walk sound diffrent, better than the released in World Mix. For me, now Desert Walk 2004 and Night Bird 2004 should be singles of this album, they are so good songs.
Sweet Lullaby 2204 is excellent. Ana Torroja sounds good in Sweet Lullaby 2003. The remixes of Yuki Song and Will You be Ready sound better than in music detected. I LOVE THIS ITEM AND I AM WAITING FOR THE DVD OF THE VIDEOS OF DEEP FOREST, THE BEST IN THE MUSIC IN THE TELEVISION

Deep Forest is amazing!! this cd is a selection of tracks from multiple titles. the Live version of green and blue is my favorite

This is the best of Deep Forest and the reason I have bought other CD's by this group, but I always return to this album which I think is their first.

The songs on here are some of the most beautiful versions and songs I have heard from the Deep Forest Crew of singers, song writters, and musicians. I was floored when I first heard the songs especially "Anasthasia" at Number 4. The song is also on their CD Boheme but in a different version. The music on this CD like on their other CDs is very soothing to listen to especially when I am laying in bed sleeping. If you've liked their other CDs this one is well worth to get.

If you have their CD's you don't need this one. The originals are better and not so techno. I did not enjoy this CD at all and I love Deep Forest.

Essence of the Forest is a masterpiece collection.

The wonderfull reproduction of eternal music of the French duo will not dussapoint anyone in this beautifull world, united so well by the Deep Forest music.

I Love the Essence of the Forest! Thank You Eric and Michel !