Customer Reviews

Universal Language

5 star:		(10)
4 star:		(2)
3 star:		(3)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

Marc's return is wonderfully announced with this majestic collection of Spanish-flavored delights. I swear "Palm Strings" is one best acoustic numbers these ears have ever heard. In sum, A great BUY.

It's probably just me, but I found this one to be a notch or two below his older stuff. I don't know whether or not it has something to do with his attempt to give this one an international flair or what; but the tunes on this one aren't quite like the ones on Madrid or Classical Soul. But remember, folks, those albums are my favorites of ALL TIME in the light jazz scene, so believe me, it's unlikely that you'll be disappointed by Universal Language. Give this one a listen; you'll be glad you did!

This is my first Marc Antoine cd, and I can't tell you just how much I am enjoying it. I've read some of the reviews, and most say that Universal Language isn't his best. Well, I'll have to be the judge of that by purchasing his previous works!

A "thumbs up" all the way for Monsieur Marc Antoine! Being the 'Marc' fan that I am, I can honestly say that "Universal Language" is truly a most refreshing recording that has 'something for everyone' on it. It encompasses all genres of world music with its Latin, Celtic, Brazilian, African, & Spanish influences. It is one HOT CD! Gotta get it! Marc, this is TOPS! I can play this CD again and again with its cool, smooth jazz and global sounds! My favorites? "Palm Strings", "Celta", "Valerio", "El Camino", "Elikya", and "Bossa Nouveau". WOW! C'est tres magnifique! Your #1 fan, Rozy!

Marc does a fine job on this album. I like the first 4 tracks a lot, but it pretty much stops there. The backside of this album pushes the limits of techno and new age, but there's a splash of jazz to it. I would most likely say that this album requires an acquired taste, you'll either love it or hate it, there's really no in between. I love it, but I can see how others might regard it as something that is a little overdone. I suggest listening to some cuts before you pick it up.

In the hands of Marc Antoine, the acoustic guitar literally becomes a living breathing phenomenon. The rich texture of Spanish influenced cords acommpained by eclectic undertones is a pleasent mixture of sound. Look, here's the deal. Let's cut right through the chase. This is a great CD. Why? Because I said so? Yep! Here's why. Universal Language is so palatable, it's like dowing a big piece of your favorite succulent dessert! It's rich, smooth, and so good! Got cash? Get the CD.

I was totally blown away by this CD. I have heard much of Antonie's work but this CD is so mellow yet engaging. I truly enjoyed listening through the entire CD the first time. If you are an Antoine fan, this is a definite addition. Marc continually impresses me, excellent work on the guitar strings!

The Greatest Guitarest Marc antoine and the best CD ever. Palm strings, (the first song in the CD)was the reason why, i bought this CD, heared it in the radio, and i liked it, when i bought the CD i wasnt expecting that all the songs will be great, but they were. highly recomended, if you like jazz, guitar, this is the CD to buy.

The first time I heard the songs on this CD I was very impressed. I like all of them. This is rare (for me anyways). Usually you find at least several tracks you don't like on a CD. You can't go wrong with this purchase. The only thing I didn't like was that the CD wasn't long enough. The songs are so enjoyable I could listen to it for hours on end.

There is nothing quite as sweet as the sound of a nylon-string guitar. It's refreshing to see more and more artists playing such a lovely instrument, like Marc Antoine, Peter White and even Sting. Although Antoine doesn't stick strictly to the classical guitar, it is featured prominently on this album lending to the smooth sounds of "Universal Language". As a player, Antoine flavors his music with the sweet sounds of Spain and smooth Jazz.

The album opens with the upbeat "Palm Strings", with a touch of horn, keyboards and voices to back his playing. In the middle of the song he shares the solo with flutist Dave Valentin before jumping back into the chorus of the song. "El Camino" brings us to a nouveau flamenco sound with a scratch board flamenco strums. The melody has a strong Latin feel, and a touch of electric guitar to add depth. This is a highlight of the album. More of a South American feel can be found in his "Bossa Nouveau" where he lays down a bossa nova rhythm and then solos over it. Add in the sythed strings and the keyboard makes the song full and elegant. Moving to the old country, "Celta" gives the feel of a Celtic or Irish ditty with the opening sounds of the song. The melody carries us over a traditional sounding rhythm as Antoine stretches out his fingers. The outro solo is the shining moment of the songs as Jeff Golub doubles on Mandolin. "Elkya (Hope)" sounds a little bit African with a heavy drum beat which the guitars surround and the wonderful voice of Lokua Kanza.

Antoine takes us on a world tour of music with "Universal Language." One thing is for certain that no matter where you are from, this album is good. The flavors of the music add variety to the album, but Antoine's playing remains great on every track. His soloing is a good fit for the music, usually providing good counterpoint to the rhythm. A very good smooth Jazz album with a variety of colors.