The Good, The Bad & The Ugly – HUGO MONTENEGRO***

The Good The Bad & The Ugly/March With Hope/The Story Of A Soldier/The Ecstasy Of Gold/Theme From A Fistful Of Dollars/For A Few Dollars More/Aces High/The Vice Of Killing/Sixty Seconds To What/Square Dance/ Titoli

The Good, The Bad & The Ugly comprises US conductor Hugo Montenegro's interpretations of Ennio Morricone tunes from recent Western movies. The title track reached No. 2 in the US and No. 1 in the UK, its popularity leading many non western fans to mistakenly believe that it was lifted from the original soundtrack. (US:9)

"Most Morricone purists will view this collection as a sham, but these versions are really quite excellent. I find myself enjoying these just as much as the originals. The tracks are beautifully arranged with Montenegro's pop flair (organs, guitar, trumpets and stirring albeit dated vocals). In some cases, Montenegro's interpretations are even more punchy and emotional than the originals. Aside from the big hit single, highlights include the gorgeous rendition of A Fistful Of Dollars, the frenetic, jazz flavoured Aces High and the Duane Eddy-ish twang on The Vice Of Killing."

"While respect must be paid to the original themes composed by the wonderful Ennio Morricone, Hugo Montenegro and his excellent orchestra must be congratulated for what is a very easy listening, almost groovy re-working of Morricone's work. A great re-interpretation. I just love Aces High. Highly recommended."

"The music is so rich and vibrant, it consumes your whole being. The combination of instruments blends so well that you enjoy listening over and over again."

"Can't think of one good reason why anyone should listen to Montenegro's flat and stale versions of these gorgeous tunes, while all the original and really innovative ones by their composer, Ennio Morricone, are readily available. Don't go for bad imitation, get the real thing."

"Pleasant enough listening, but after hearing the original, this is a watered-down version with none of the haunting, sharp and unique sound of the originals."