Customer Reviews

From Russia with Love

5 star:		(11)
4 star:		(2)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(2)

 

 

I received "From Russia with Love" as a gift from Switzerland in the mail. After listening to the music I immediately checked out the web site from Helmut Lotti and was stunned to learn that Helmut is not a Russian. Listening to his music in "From Russia with Love", I was convinced this was a Russian singing, not only that, every piece of music on this CD is simply outstanding. I have rarely enjoyed a CD to this extent. The singing is outstanding, the Russian choir quality and so is the orchestra. I am delighted and pleased that we access to such a treat.

The local PBS channel featured Helmut Lotti's "From Russia With Love" for the recent pledge drive. They got my support! And I got this wonderful CD and equally wonderful DVD. Helmut Lotti has a superb voice and he sings these Russian songs with such passion! Remarkably, he does not speak Russian, but learned the lyrics phonetically. Here are some of my favorite folk songs: Polyushko polye, Cherniye ochi, Kalinka. And some popular Russian songs which made it to the American hit parade: Dorogoy dlinnoyu ("Those Were the Days, My Friend") and the English language rendition of "Dream Away" ("A Stranger in Paradise"). Helmut gives a sweet, personal touch to movie themes "From Russia With Love" and "Lara's Theme" and a poignant "Far East of the Sun." These latter are sung in English. The final stanza of "Far East," a song from the Siberian gulag, could bring tears to your eyes! The finale is the Russian National Anthem. This is one of the most beautiful and singable of all anthems. The pleasing music has recently been given new lyrics by its original composer. Helmut sings the updated version accompanied by the Red Army Ensemble. My only criticism of the CD: lyrics should have been provided for nonRussian speakers. But I'm certain a web-search could easily locate lyrics and translations. The DVD features the same wonderful songs, with videos of Russian villagers and Cossacks in traditional costume. Helmut's trip through Russia on the TransSiberia Railroad provides the backdrop to the musical DVD. Through his eyes you see the splendor of this awesome, huge country. I recommend watching the DVD to get a feel for the artist's own appreciation of Russia. You'll feel the love each time you listen to the CD!

I'm new to Helmut Lotti's music, but I think he did a wonderful job on this. As a Russian myself, it was delightful to hear the old traditional Russian folk tunes sung by this Belgian. It was even more interesting to learn he sang the songs phonetically, as he doesn't speak the language. Sure could've fooled me. His accent was perfect and his arrangements was excellent. I highly recommend this album. Even better, get the DVD or both. Your eyes can feast on a wonderful scenic tour of the country and people wearing traditional costumes. And there are subtitles for those who can't understand the words.

I saw this program on PBS and taped it because it was so good. I was thrilled to find that Amazon.com provided the opportunity to get the CD -- it is much more portable than a VCR and TV! I have listened to it over and over, and I will continue to do so. I can hear the love of country that Lotti is able to impart to his listeners. There are several songs on the CD that you will be surprised actually are Russian songs, but it is a wonderful piece of music.

The music, the sites throughout Russia and the explanation of what the culture represented in the past would be enjoyed be anyone.

I will listen to this CD often. It is very inspirational music and the artist is wonderful to listen to.

This title of this CD and the DVD are off putting. The CD is just absolutely beautiful. One of his absolute best ever. The DVD is beautifully filmed and so informative and entertaining. I don't know why this product has not been well received It has everything going for it.

This musical rendition of beloved Russian classic and folk songs is superbly presented by Helmut Lotti. The most amazing part is that Lotti does NOT speak Russian and so had to learn all the lyrics phoneticly yet, I am told by some Russian friends, his pronunciation and tempo is that of a native speaker. The Ukranian folk song entitled LUTSHJE BULO is a toe tapper no matter where you are from and the haunting strains of FAR EAST OF THE SUN will touch your soul. The only thing I wish they had done was to include the phonetic lyrics inside the CD cover. This piece is well worth the excellent price and will provide enjoyment for a long time.

If you enjoyed Helmut Lotti's other CDs you will want to add this to your collection. You might prefer one of his 'classic' collections if you are a new fan.

Kay

Bought for my Russian adopted granddaughter, checked it out and was really impressed with the scope and diversity of Helmut Otto.

The photography was spectacular!!

His voice and talent are excellent, I am giving it to her for Easter, I know she will enjoy it.

Have to give DeeVeeDee kudos for shipping and timeliness.

Mirriam M. Hamelly