Spotlight customer reviews:
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Customer Rating: 
Summary: Depth, and a very unexpected romanticism.
Comment: Unlike virtually every other Glass composition to which I have been exposed, "Songs and Poems" displayed real intellectualism and honesty of a kind I have never expected from the man who produced (and continuously re-produced) "Glassworks." These compositions, while recognizably minimalist in style and form, are unusually jagged-edged and stormy--romantic, I would say, in a way very unlike Glass' usual treacle and posturing.
Sutter's command of the material really elevates and justifies its emotional content. I would have never expected it, but these pieces are not only emotionally convincing, but convincing in a gripping and agonized fashion which reflects impressively on the soloist. She is both restrained and emphatic; for the first and only time in Glass' body of work I think we have encountered real, unselfconscious command of the emotional possibilities of minimalist music. I can't over-stress Sutter's contribution to this impressive success: Her intellectual command of the material and her expressive technique have literally made the piece what it is.
It is unusual for me to compliment a composition on its emotional content, but it is so extremely unusual to see Glass write with honest and unsentimental vulnerability, depression, elevation and rage that it's all the more surprising how effectively he has carried it off. As suspicious of emotionally sensational material as I am, I have repeatedly enjoyed this recording and, in fact, enjoyed it more each time.
Customer Rating:
Summary: I Converted to Cello
Comment: This Cd made me a Cello fan. It is relaxing "a lo Glass", (as usual). Before, I considered the violoncello an inferior
entity within the violin family, but now I have great respect for both, the instrument and Phillip. To me: definitely a 5 star.
Manny Fernandez
P.S. I'm not a professional music analyst just in case I may have disappointed any one for not getting into the technical analysis of the CD.
Customer Rating:
Summary: Songs & Poems for Solo cello
Comment: Philip Glass is a genius and this CD is truly a mark of his talent. Beautiful, simple, soothing cello
Customer Rating:
Summary: loved it!
Comment: This is quite unlike Philip Glass' minimalism music. It is lush and fluid, written for Wendy Sutter, whom he loves. It is obvious and lovely. The old cello she plays has a wonderful deep tone and she plays with controlled virtuosity and passionate feeling. Highly recommended. I am giving the recording as a gift to those who appreciate music.
Customer Rating: 
Summary: Mislead by the Wall Street Journal review
Comment: There wasn't a single piece on this CD that I enjoyed. I love cello music but none of these selections were melodious and were an affront to my taste. I disagree totally with Greg Sandow's WSJ review. If I had heard this first I never would have bought it.
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