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Album for true rock fans Punk rock album for the punk rock fan. Not for the mainstream"rock" fans that enjoy commercial and over produced garbage we have now (Godsmack, Korn, Limb Biz., Creed, etc.)...	45 stars
Redisovering a great Schubert singer The first CD in this two-fer is mostly Bach and Handel, the second CD mostly Schubert (17 lieder). Fassbaender was eminent in both areas, as well as on the oepra stage, but as she grew older she concentrated entirely on liedersinging. She was never as famous as Christa Ludwig, the other Austro-German mezzo of greatness at the time. Their voices are in stark contrast: Ludwig was soft, warm, and smiling (she had a hard time being convincingly tragic), while Fassbaender's was plaintive, sharply focused, and rarely smiling. There's a peculiar glint in her timbre that's almost metallic.Leaving tone aside, she has great intelligence and acuity in lieder. Her Schubert isn't soft and gentle but dramatic and incisive. Eight lieder here are miscellaneous 'great hits' with Erik Werbe, the other nine are from Winterreise with Fassbaender's long-time accompanist Aribert Reimann, who's playing fits her style more closely. All these readings are intense, and although female versions of Winterreise are rare (Ludwig has a fine autumnal one with James Levine at the piano on DG), Fassbaender is thrilling and her voice suitably dark and tragic. I'd rate this her finest Schubert on disc, recor4ded early enough that she hadn't become overly intense and hectoring, which happens on some of her late recordings. Highly recommended.	45 stars
Outstanding The story of Rachel culminates in this third CD of Basia's. The stories revealed in Basia's lyrics are moving and touching.	45 stars
AMAZING CD!! Tyler Hilton has the most amazing voice! His CD is so good all of the songs are amazing, you should also check out his first CD, Tyler Hilton, the independence release...which is also amazing. My favorite songs on this CD are Pink and Black and Kiss On. There isn't really a genre to put him into, but his songs are amazing and really deep. Tyler Hilton is an amazing artist and even better in concert!	45 stars
A must have for any collection. My music collection is extensive and I continue filling voids in the collection. I do have Starship in my collection but I needed to include Jefferson Airplane and this CD fit the bill. The collection on the CD is great and to be honest growing up in this era it is so nice to listen to Grace Slick from this era.	45 stars
They are Original! I'm old enough to remember and these are all original and digitally REMASTERED which doesn't require the performers! Geesh, the reviewer below must think they resurrect Jim Morrison for Doors Reissues! A fun album from back when songs weren't all !nasty	34 stars
Post-Punk Paranoia At It's Finest 21 years after its release and this album still sends me to places most modern 'rock' couldn't even dream of. howard devoto's bratty drawl evokes an era when it was hip to be anti-establishment and anti-authority, yet his songs drip with a more personal internal melodrama. yes they used synthesizers, yes they were 'prog-rockish' but hey, they were DARK, and they were direct and they were/are magnificent. this was a landmark achievement for british post-punk and i recommend it to anyone who wants to rise above the bland offerings from contemporary british/american slaves to corporate radio. "time flies, time crawls, like an insect, up and down the walls"- i'll have a blast of whatever howard was on.	45 stars
Love it! Tony's music makes you feel happy & sing along. I have this CD and Tony's Greatest Hits in my car and play them over and over and over and never get tired of hearing his music. He is the greatest. His music has a great beat and brings back good memories. I hear those familiar songs and just have to sing along. Besides being a tremendous performer, Tony is a very nice, down to earth person. He appreciates his fans and lets them know it. We, in turn, appreciate him for his music and all the work he does for the Veterans.	45 stars
If you are looking for the song "Pain" I have it!!! I have both the remix and original version of the song Pain that i got off of a bootleg out of the United Kingdom, and for $15 dollars i will burn it to CD and Send it out 2 you. If you have any questions about the product or payment (which we can take care of through pay pal) contact me via email. Super!	45 stars
Not anywhere near their potential. I just listened to the new CD. It won't even make it to my truck's CD case. I'll just listen to their Wide Open Spaces CD and see if anything they write next hits the radio. I don't think any of the FLY CD songs are good enough for the radio. Also they are really bent on telling everyone they can do whatever they want to: Sure, that's true, but they won't have any fans promoting an attitude like the comments on the insert in the CD. I predict the Dixie Chicks are going to fade away very soon. Sorry for the bad news.	01 star
this album rocks the album is all around good stuff I am a pretty young Dylan fan, 20 yrs old, and I just love the way he makes words ryhme and the way they fit together. Hurricane ROCKS!!	45 stars
"Out of Exile" entertaining but cluttered With their sophomore release, "Out of Exile," Audioslave defy their critics again by proving that not only can they rock, but they can rock consistently.Unfortunately, "Out of Exile" only breaks new ground on a select few songs. The album is essentially one heavy-rock song after another, driven by guitarist Tom Morello (who gets at least one melodramatic guitar solo per song). Cornell's troubled drawl sounds as much like an angrier Eddie Vedder as it has before, but here, his voice is perhaps strained by age.The album begins with "Your Time Has Come," which starts off with a strong chord progression that eventually becomes drowned in the other sounds of the song. Such is the same fate for nearly every song; there are usually one or two interesting guitar tricks that are drowned out by too much clutter, to the point where songs become painful exercises in trying to discern different sounds from one another.Even moments of sonic simplicity don't hit the spot the way you would hope them to. Cornell's voice reaches moments of emotional purity, which are promptly drowned out by the rest of the band. The most painful moment on the album would have to be "The Worm," with a cheesy 70's-era guitar solo near the end that forced me to question the integrity of the entire album.Things pick up again with "Man or Animal," which tries out a few new types of sounds. The funky "Dandelion" is also a highlight, with an interesting pace and melody. The softest song on the album, the lyrics are bliss: "Settle down now and sit with me / Let me tell you how this all came to be / A yellow flower with your pedals to the air / And flying on paper wings that brought you here."Audioslave fans will also like the title track, which builds from a ch-ch-ch-ch guitar crunch and unleashes into Cornell's best performance and the best melody on the album.There are very few moments of true bliss on the album, but overall the album will grow on you if you give it a chance. There's nothing as adventurous on "Out of Exile" as the softer content of Nine Inch Nails' "With Teeth," but on the other hand, the melodies and instrumentals are overall stronger than Nine Inch Nails' latest effort. Get both albums.I'd really give this album a 3 and a half stars, so I rounded up the score to a four.	34 stars
Refreshing, new, pure, energetic, Brazilian flair This is another very fine release from Putumayo. This is a collection of 13 recent compositions by modern Brazilian artists. I already had some familiarity with a few of the artists featured on this CD (Jorge Ben, Chico Caesar, Chico Buarque). However, most of the artists are new to me and I am very pleased to discover them! The liner notes state that, back home in Brazil, some of the artists are million sellers and others are relatively unknown. I find such a mixture very refreshing.The songs reflect a range of styles and textures from different regions of the country. I immediately liked 9 of the 13 compositions on the very first listening. There are two very interesting covers: Rosa Passos does Jobim's classic "Aguas de Marcao" and Beth Carvalho does Paulinho da Viola's "Danca de Solidao" (in my opinion, these two alone would be worth the price of the CD). I think the rest of the compositions are oiginals. The original compositions range from regional folk styles (Despedidia, Berekere) to bossa/jazz (Visgo de Jaca) to reggae/funk (Mama Africa) to samba (Canto des Tres Racas) to pop (Take Sarava).It's hard to describe the arrangements because the styles are so varied. I can say this: no schmaltzy strings or annoying pop synthesizer cliches. It sounds like Brazil to me -- not Hollywood.[...] 3 sound clips are available. IMO none of these three are the best on the CD, but they may give you some sense of what the CD is like.Overall, it is not as "edgy" as Luakabop's "Beleza Tropical" collections (although I love those collections, too!). To my ear, this Putamayo collection is less techno/pop and more "down home."Lastly, the CD packaging is wonderful. It includes a 23-page booklet that tells you a little about the musical history of Brazil and a little bit about each of the artists on the CD.I give this CD a very high recommendation. Anyone who wants to sample a little bit of the real flavor and flair of modern Brazil will surely enjoy it.	45 stars
"Never Stops Sounding Great" I know It's 2009, but I listen to "Captured Angel" in my car as I am driving to work and I have a big smile on my face. The songs just seem to melt one into the other. One of my favorite Dan songs, "The Last Nail" is just incredible. All the phrasing he uses on almost all the songs is incredible. They just don't write music like that anymore. Get this CD if you want to listen to some really good music!!!!!!	45 stars
The ultimate banjo CD Mike Seeger's has been devoted to traditional American and African American music for more than 50 years. This work catalogs many if not all of the chief southern banjo styles. It is a sharp refutation of the dogmatism that grips many old time banjo "experts" that old time banjo playing is simply one or another regional North Carolina or Virginia form of downpicking/clawhammer/frailing, and everything else is an afterthought.This CD is here to show you that old time music contained every kind of mixture between finger style, clawhammer, and styles that combine the two. You get a rich appreciation and a real knowledge, and a lot of joy from hearing the creative power of the musics Black and white banjoists created before the 1950s.There is not only recreation of old time favorites by the masters but innovation. On Dock Bogg's great "Down South Blues," instead of doing it in the stright picking style Dock used as he did on the NLCR's "Gone to the Country" Album in the 1950s, Mike plays slide on the banjo. He maybe carrying out what Boggs said toward the end of his life after he heard Mississippi John Hurt and other Black bluesmen of his own generation on the folk revival circuit. Boggs said if he had to do it all over again, he might have played some banjo, but he would have learned how to play guitar like John Hurt.Mike takes you from the earliest forms of African American banjo styles, to bluegrass, and leaves many stops behind. Perhaps the ultimate would be to get the three video set of instruction Mike has made based on this same reprtoire where he explains how each song is played and gives the history of the many different banjos he played them on and often the history of the players he learned these tunes from.Like everything Mike does, this CD would be completely enjoyable to someone who wasn't concerned with banjo history, banjo playing, old time history or anything else except hearing some nice home made music, songs that will make you cry, songs that will make you laugh, songs that will make you wonder, songs that will take you back, songs that will show you how modern times swept through the hills and the hollars and the hills and the plains of the South,still leaving banjos ringing	45 stars
Christmas All Year! One of Mariah's best. It's an album that I go to all year long and not only at Christmas. I highly recommend it!	45 stars
he even did a track w/ limp bizkit Ok i just wanna say this is the best cd ever!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!	45 stars
The Best from Ten Years After If you enjoy 1970's Rock and Roll, this is a must for your collection	45 stars
X = excellent & Y = you gotta get this So check it out: I am pretty much a music snob. I can tell quickly whether or not certain music is worth my time. It's like I have musical itch I am looking around to have scratched. I can tell quickly if a CD is scratch-worthy. Are you this way? If you are discerning, I invite you to give this CD a whirl. It's one of the best I've heard in a few years, other than Keane's Hopes and Fears (another gem!). It is a rare day when I grin and glow over a CD (particularly these days). I've listened to nothing else since it came out. Enjoy!	45 stars
Yeah baby! This is the music Austin Powers remembers with such delight from his days as a sixties hipster, grooving in swinging London.	45 stars
I suppose I'm sentimental... I can listen to this album in my car calm and collected until the first song on the second side (of the cassette). When the piano starts to come in on the beginning of "Invitation to the Blues" I start to choke up and driving becomes suddenly very difficult. Tom Waits has his hands all tangled up in my heartstrings and this song can set me off any time.	45 stars
THE Kings of Leon Album, Now without the DRM The year of Sony shipping it's CDs with its infamous DRM have been over, for about 4 years, so those claiming to beware of the DRM are misinformed. Apart from that, this is THE best Kings of Leon album. There is not a single track on this record that you want to skip over, the very simple yet extremely catchy riffs of this album will definitely leave an imprint on your musical listening. This was Kings of Leon at their peak, and to say that Only by The Night is better, is a fallacy. Every track is good, and every CD is now DRM since 2005.	45 stars
the king of country go buy this. if you love george strait, you need to buy for someone you love. buy it for someone else because if you love george strait, you should already own it.	45 stars
Monica is da bomb and always will be!!!!! After listening to monicas cd i wasTOUCHED.I have a sence for tallent and Monica definitly has my vote. My favorite songs are ''streete symphony'','' the boy is mine'' and ''Angel of mine''	45 stars
Not as good as her other albums I thought this would just be another good Cher Album. I was disappointed when it was not the same type of music I was accustomed to with Cher.	12 stars
The Corrs Crank! I first saw The Corrs on VH-1 a few months back. I had heard of their name, but wasn't familiar with their music. Right away, I knew this would be a band I would want to hear more of.Since the VH-1 show was shot at the beginning of this year, it's not out on DVD yet. I couldn't wait, so I bought this DVD, The Corrs - Live at the Royal Albert Hall. It is from 1998. The quality of the sound recording is excellent! Very clear and clean. I'm not as impressed with the videography, though. The director chose to have quick shots of the individuals, back and forth. You don't really get a calm wide shot of them playing for more than a few seconds. I realize that's on purpose, but I think they miss the point that a lot of people buy a concert DVD to see the whole show, as if you were in the audience, not looking at just another snappy video production.It's not unbearable, and it's not enough for me to say don't buy it, because I think it's good for the music alone....To summarize, if you know and like The Corrs, you need this for your collection. If you don't know who they are, this DVD should sway you to the best thing to come out of Ireland since U2.	34 stars
An Original Classic It's simply not Holywood type of crap. If you think "La Vita a Bella" is 10 times better than "Shakespeare in Love" you will definitely love this movie. Great music, great location. It's truly a classic.	45 stars
Bought 5 copies I love this CD so much that I had to buy extras for my friends. I love every song on this CD!	45 stars
American Music by American Masters Edgar Meyer may not be a name on the lips of many classical music fans, but it should be. This soft-spoken composer and soloist with the double bass has a unique voice that capture much of the flavor of the Copland/Whitman/Ives/Faulkner view of the American sound. He is an accomplished soloist of a difficult instrument and has written a rather large body of work that incorporates the instrument he knows thoroughly.The Quintet on this recording is an especially fine example of his creativity. Scored for string quartet with double bass the piece is at once plangenty beautiful in melody and complexly interesting in harmony. The Emerson Quartet is joined by Meyer himself for this performance and together they make a true cause for the potential repertoire populariety of this work (it would make a fine accompaniment with the 'Trout Quintet' Schubert!).The Quartet by Ned Rorem is often played but rarely as well as the Emerson Quartet performs it here. Rorem is better know for his vocal songs than his instrumental writings, but this survey of his Quartet No. 4 should stir imaginations to explore his other chamber works.In all, this excellent recording is a ray of very bright light from two gifted composers, and hearing the Meyer will doubtless lead the listener to seek out his many recordings of his works, including the much lauded 'Appalachia Waltz' with Yo-Yo Ma! Highly recommended. Grady Harp, April 06	45 stars
Rock 'n' Soul Bo's version of "Inside Your Heaven" is pure emotion. Much better than the finale version. He took a so-so song and turned it into something soothing to the soul. It's a nice balance with the rocked-out "Vehicle." And, man, does he rock "Vehicle"! With Richie Sambora of Bon Jovi on lead guitar and Bo's voice, this song makes me want to move. Now that this CD is in my player I can start my summer with some rock 'n' roll soul.	45 stars
Refreshing and creative Alana Davis has a voice that touches your soul. Her music is creative and refeshing a la Ani DiFranco. Also love her version of "Can't Find My Way Home" (not on the album)	45 stars
LJL This CD was ok, but I thought it would be better - there is only one Hit Song "Call Me" on this CD. But after I just listen to all the songs I started to be okay with the hold CD.	23 stars
The King And I soundtrack I purchased this CD to hear David Burnham sing I Have Dreamed. I LOVE it and I LOVE his gorgeous voice singing the beautiful song. Thanks for the CD!	45 stars
Jump on the Tiger!!! Holy Diver is a metal classic with absolutly no argument. The title track is one of my favorite songs ever and you can't believe how thrilled I was when I first learned how to play it the whole way through.We all know the story of Ronnie James Dio, the pint sized vocalist for the bands Elf, Rainbow, and Black Sabbtah, finally struck out on his own and made one of the most memorable albums of all time. I walways wondered if Holy Diver would have been Black Sabbath's next album if Dio stayed with the Fab Sabs.Besides the title track which is the crown jewel of this album in my opinion, Stand up and Shout, Gypsy, Shame on the Night, and Caught in the Middle are favorites of mine. Vivian Campbell was in top form on this album. His guitar work is amazing. Too bad he turned into such a little wuss after he joined Def Leppard and won't even acknowledge the work he did with Ronnie James.	45 stars
If you like the Funky-thide-of-sings; these are worth every penny! I completely agree with the reviewer who said 1973 radio failed miserably. Billy Paul's great album WAR OF THE GODS bombed that year too; whas'up 1973! His "Thanks For Saving My Life" is such the overlooked hit; Hello?! UNSUNG HEROES is undoubtedly one of my favorite Crusaders EVER (and I own them ALL)!! The horns and the keyboards take turns at smooth Jazz lines and Funk licks and mix it with one of the super funkiest rhythmsections ever; Stix my man, GOOD LORD! The guitar is only present on the funkiest and adds just what is needed to send these on over. "Hard Times" & "Now I Lay Me Down To Sleep" (with it's keyboard solo long before the "Theme to TAXI") are solid indications of what they gravitated to later with the unruffled smooth Funk. "Freedom Sound" in it's brevity is all the more chillingly beautiful; unlike any other Crusaders composition (except maybe when they were the Jazz Crusaders). But the Funk bombs are here in full force, so much so that I'd pit them against a number of the great 70s black soundtracks toe to toe. I ain't even playin'. Even the use of "Boogie" in the title of the 5th song is WAY before that term became so raggedy and worn out. You'd think "Heavy Up" would be on some 70s Funk compilations, but UNSUNG HEROES, much like their benchmark PASS THE PLATE album, has never seen a digital release! Whereas PASS THE PLATE has one tour de force genre shifter and six funked up Soulful explorations into a Soul/Jazz fusion; HEROES is full tilt into their early fusion recipe. In a perfect world these albums would be some of the EASIEST Crusaders to find; but for those without the vinyl CRUSADERS I is one of the few available from this period of their career. All three albums I've mentioned are tied for Best Crusaders album for me. If you like the funky-thide-of-sings and have any inkling that you'd want a Crusaders disc; any one of the three is worth every single penny you have to spend.	45 stars
showcase showdown is the best band in the world the showcase showdown is the best band in world	45 stars
Page & Plant Are Like Milk & Honey These two should have never stopped playing together, they have a true affinity with each other. I absolutey love this, I could not stop watching it, it is a gorgeous compilation of their old songs done brilliantly, they are still music gods and genuises. A must have in everyones collection of unique and beautiful music. Wonderful One and Rainsong are redone incredibly.	45 stars
Fast paced Irish dancing. A must see for ALL!!! Great Action adventure ... and no guns needed! An excellent cinematographic version of a broadway great.	34 stars
Kelly is wonderful! I can definetly feel this cd! This cd is for all of the ladies that are going through some hard times from everything, whether is be lack of money, man or both. When you don't have anyone else in this world, you will always have yourself. I highly recommend this cd.	45 stars
Chili Peppers' California Love The Red Hot Chili Peppers; those clowns who gave a whole new use for the sock, recorded in a haunted house to create one of the 90's best albums BloodSugarSexMagik, and have continued their success with the big comeback 1999's Californication, spawning hits left and right. Now, By The Way follows up that huge success with even stronger material. The title track is now inescapable, and theres tons of radio hits on here you'll soon be hearing. Get ready. The Chili Peppers are still red hot.	34 stars
Musical Genius Where to begin. . . This NJ band really knows how to rock, from upbeat fast songs like 100 Days to softer melodic songs like Starry Night this group aims to please and really delivers the goods. Their earlier works are a little heavier, each CD being unique from the one before it, but Eyewitness should appeal to every music fan. So for those of you who haven't purchased a Shades Apart CD yet this is a great one to begin with, just listen to the samples or go to the groups website (www.shadesaparthq.com) and listen to full versions and for those of you who love SA no collection is complete without this newest edition. Look for their next CD in 2001.	45 stars
These guys prove metal is not dead yet....... As im sure most of you know, metal has seemed to take a down turn the past 5 to six years. It seems everybody is going the Nu Metal route as of late, and leaving metals original "glory" behind. Well, its good to see that there are still some real, flag bearing metal bands out there, and Darkness Falls may be the best of all the new breeds.True, i think God Forbid is one to watch as well, but if you listen to this new cd by shadows fall, you will see why i say they may be the best. I heard the song the power of i and i on music choice, and was blown away. These guys just keep improving from album to album, and when you listen to this one closely, you feel a little bit of Master of Puppets, mixed with a little South of Heaven. If you are an old school metal fan like myself, then you know what im talking about. Go buy this cd, only if you love real metal.	45 stars
Probably should have left it behind After they were trashed for their more alt-electronica advances on their 90s material, it seemed that a return to an earthier if still shimmering sound was in order. The result is a mishmash of success--some quite good, others barely even listenable. Kicks off with the infectious and anthemic pop rocker, "Beautiful Day," a solid hit, but then follows that up with the cringe-worthy earnestness of the Hutchence-dedicated, soulful dregs on "Stuck in a Moment You Can't Get Out Of," a regrettable hit. The rest follows a similar rollercoaster process and before the end, you'd have wished it were a really solid EP instead of a borderline-embarrassing LP. Even most of the better moments on this album (like "Kite") still reek of faded glory. Beyond "Beautiful Day," the only song that truly earns its worth is the striking pop song, "Wild Honey"; the other good tracks only become so in comparison with the dreck elsewhere on the disc. We knew that U2 was trying to become significant again, but a watered-down stew of their good and bad tendencies is not the route to travel. That a forgettable single like "Walk On" could win a Grammy for Record of the Year says a little about Bono's songwriting and a lot about the Grammys.Best cuts: "Wild Honey," "Beautiful Day," "Kite," "Elevation," "When I Look At the World," "Grace"	12 stars
by far the best live album in this genre of all time recently ive been on a live album kick searching for my favorite artists best (or any) live releases. i first saw this cd/dvd combo at tower records and instantly got it and i can say it is the greatest dj-ing ive ever heard. the astral beats and atmospheres that is a dj shadow production sound perfect as he mashes tracks together andn scratches the hell out of his collection. the cd contains the entire show minus a few tracks but its reeeeeeeeeal long. thinking that the dvd isnt much is wrong because the visuals to each song make the entire performance surreal. its fantastic. if you have ...endtroducing (which you should have!) and or the private press buy this NOW!	45 stars
For the joy of the dance "Talent is considered worth measuring only when it occurs in the right body," announces the narrator as hundreds of children are paraded across the camera. They're all aged 10-12 and gleaned from an application pool of thousands who are eager to be chosen to attend the illustrious Vaganova Choreographic Institute and Kirov Ballet. It's an incredibly rigorous audition process, with children measured and chosen for the specific physical proportions historically required of ballerinas even before their skill is evaluated but, as this movie keenly illustrates, the audition is only the first step in the lifetime of rigorous discipline that awaits those who make it past the application process.The narrator here is Princess Grace of Monaco, also known as Grace Kelly. The movie is The Children of Theatre Street and is directed by Robert Dornhelm and Earle Mack. Produced in 1977 by a team made up of both Soviet and western filmmakers, this academy award-nominated film gives an incredibly interesting look at the arts in Russia at the height of Soviet control.But the focus here is on the children referenced in the title. The movie follows various students of the school through one year in their life. We see several students prepare for the performance that marks their graduation from the school, observe their activities and interactions, and find out just how much dedication is necessary for ballerinas to truly perfect their craft.We are also introduced to the teachers and staff at the school and are treated to a history of the Kirov Ballet and beautiful scenes of St. Petersburg. Partially because of the time it was produced the film can occasionally seem a little staged, but the interactions between the young ballerinas more than makes up for this.The movie is about hard work, about the sweat and the tears that these students put into every day of their training, but it's also about the joy that lies in the dance. For the children of Theatre Street, ballet was their life- a life they were determined to live to the fullest.	34 stars
Lameness has never been so emphatically defined... There's one thing you can't take away from Coldplay: writting about them seems tightly connected with the heaviest superlatives. May those be positive or negative ones. I'm not about to escape that trend.I would have to think and think seriously hard to remember any album that was hyped as ridiculously as this one and was as much a mediocrity as this one. And I'm being generously mild here. Incidentally, hype can be tolerated (to a degree) if there's something, anything, of substance to the object concerned.Problem is that "X&Y;" is totally devoid of any substance.Full with pseudo-intellectuallisms, and pseudo Radiohead-isms it's one of those bland and generic albums destined to be audio decoration in super-market isles worldwide, soon.Not that it has been any different with past Coldplay albums of course. The band are supposedly gone experimental on this one (really? that certainly escaped me) and have become much more "daring". Well, whoa, but possibly this refers to the coloring of the cover or something allthough that would be stretching it too. Since when they call music as lifeless as this "experimental and daring"? If they use terms as these for Coldplay what would they use for bands such as Massive Attack or Tool or others who really deserve such chracterisations. The effort of the promotion gurus is remarkable isn't?If you've heard one Coldplay track you've certainly heard them all. One recipe and that's it, three albums long so far and counting: one little guitar melody devoid of any passion, any life or inspiration, boring drum work in the background and even more boring nothing-to-tell lyrics to dress it all up uniformly. Tata...I can understand of course the english media praising this even beyond the levels they did with Radiohead (who did deserve most of the accompaning hype) but i somehow have more demands from the music and lyrics that go through my ears. Coldplay are simply nothing special. A gathering of people that in a different place, a different time, and with a different star-constellation in the sky, could, maybe, do something with whatever talent they theoretically possess. But this could be claimed just about anybody.And whether while shopping in the super-market it's generic R&B; or generic pop playing in the backround i'll still passionately ignore it. That and the products it's supposedly trying to make me buy.	01 star
Frailty The Key on Vespertine `Vespertine' is a marvelous piece of artwork. After being absent from the music scene for several years, Bjork hushed not only her voice, but her music as well, to create an album that is beautiful and divine. After the harshness of `Homogenic', she took a different approach. Some fans were disappointed at the change. Others rejoiced and loved it. Still, it is Bjork, and you can always expect to hear something different with every new album.Without a dance track in sight, `Vespertine' is an organized mess of choral arrangements, gentle static snapping and some of Bjork's most insightful lyrics ever. You could easily lounge around in a bathrobe all day listening to this. All the material here is lush, sensual, warm, inviting and captivating. Bjork lets the music speak for itself; drums are almost non-existent. In general, her vocals are quite impressive. I disagree with several reviewers who stated `Bjork's voice does not fit with this music.' The quality of her voice allows her to sing just about any type of music, as she has demonstrated in the past with songs like `It's Oh So Quiet' and `You've Been Flirting Again'. She has the power to carry a heavy tune but possesses the sensitivity to sing a quiet ballad.The artistry of this album is superb. There's a significant amount of achievement to be heard here: Bjork composed all the string arrangements and oversaw the choral arrangements. There is a theme for this album, though completely opposite of the aggressive nature of `Homogenic': `Vespertine' is timid and shy, a side of Bjork not often seen. Somehow, the similar sounds heard throughout this album don't ever become bland or boring. Bjork's experience in songwriting and expression is the backbone of this album.Hidden Place: I first heard this on her greatest hits album, and fell in love with it. It's so haunting and dreamlike! The soaring vocal arrangement is what carries this tune. Right away, with this opening number you realize that Bjork has taken a more delicate approach. This song is fragile. It feels as though if it were sped up or pushed any more, it would snap. Bjork's breathy vocals feel right at home above the rich chords. (6/5) <- this is valid for BjorkCocoon: Needless to say, this is a very honest and blunt song, but it's not the least bit harsh. It's almost seductive, and for good reason. In this song, Bjork describes her moments of passion and intimacy with a man. I admire her courage to sing about such a topic, and the echoing low bells are enchanting. She sings very sweetly, with a haunting tone and long vowels. It's rather odd to hear her singing in such a way, compared to her past works. Never has she been so personal about such a subject. The song is beautiful, but almost creepy. (5/5)It's Not Up To You: The playful plucking and bells are what get my thumbs up here. It seems as though the strings and Bjork's voice are teasing one another. There're several moments of simplistic glory, and I absolutely love the short but gorgeous flute solos. As the chorus begins, Bjork's vocals become very melodic and deep. She sounds very comfortable, expressing emotions I have never heard her sing of before. The added choral voices toward the end are very charming and conclude the song well. (5/5)Undo: I had to listen to this song about five times before I began to enjoy it. It's very soft (even more so than the previous track) and very delicate. It sounds very much like `Cocoon' with added vocals. Thank goodness the topic is about taking life as it comes at you, and rolling with it. The chords (very reminiscent of `Unravel') are simple but luscious. As the song progresses, it subtly builds from quiet to very vibrant with choral voices and emotional strings. The descending notes make you feel as though you're falling and settling back into a comfort zone. (5/5)Pagan Poetry: One of the best songs of Bjork's career, this song really is spellbinding. It's one of the few songs on `Vespertine' with any percussion and deep bass sounds. The music box and harp in this song are to be commended! The haunting backing vocals linger on in your head even when they aren't heard audibly. Bjork's emotion is very raw, very real and touching. Her pain is obvious, and I love the portion at the end where she sings high with so much strength behind her voice she sounds as if she herself is going to break. Listening to this song in the dark, you feel haunted. There're so many elements of this song that are near perfection, I couldn't possibly list them all. (6/5)Frosti: An instrumental track, it makes you think of ballet dancers, Christmas lights, candy, snowflakes and anything else sparkly and pretty. It's a wonderful little addition to such a melodic album, and although it breaks the momentum started by `Pagan Poetry', it is a fantastic opener for the next track. (5/5)Aurora: After the bells of `Frosti' begin to fade, a light sound of footprints in the snow appears. The music box bells begin once again, and light percussion ticks and a harp round out this tune. There is really nothing too spectacular about this, though it is still beautiful. The chorus is the highlight, as Bjork soars vocally over the arpeggios of the music. I always think of standing on a mountaintop looking up at the stars when I hear this. It's very magical in a way. (4/5)An Echo, A Stain: The most haunting song of hers, I found this to be extremely entertaining. It's as if you're hanging on for dear life to this one part of you and you can't move. It's very hard to describe the emotions that Bjork brings out of you. The same notes are sustained from the beginning of this piece to the end, and occasionally string tremolos and vocal crescendos tease the listener. The harp scales and percussion ticks are carefully placed to create a piece that is magical and lovely. There's a lot of sadness here. (5/5)Sun In My Mouth: There aren't many lyrics in this, so Bjork sings them extremely slow and melodic. Again, the music box makes an appearance, with its tender chords and playfulness. Toward the middle of this song, Bjork's vocals are impressive. This is more like an intermission track, as it's quite short and ends on a sudden note. It's enchanting, but not long enough to make a big impression. (4/5)Heirloom: The meaning of this song is still up in the air. No matter how many times I listen to it, I can't figure it out. The good thing is, the tone of this song is somewhat more upbeat and structured than the last few tracks. It's still mysterious and full of lush chords. I would probably enjoy this song more if I knew what it was about. However, the music is relaxing and the bass is almost jazzy; I can't really describe it. (4/5)Harm of Will: Obviously, this was written about someone. Regardless of who it is, this song is lovely. Touching and sensitive, it's very poetic and artistic. Some of Bjork's best vocal moments are here, as she sings higher and softer than ever before. Again, delicacy is the key ingredient. With varying tempos throughout this track, Bjork is free to express herself vocally however she wishes. (5/5)Unison: I truly believe this should have been on Bjork's greatest hits album. At first, it starts out slow (even slower than some of the other tracks here). But as the plucking strings and soft electronic sounds sneak in, you find yourself drowning in Bjork's little world. She combines all the best elements of the album (strings, choral vocals, harp, music box) and creates a very memorable piece. The chorus is absolutely spectacular, and begs to be turned up. Bjork's fragile yet strong vocals compliment the longing of the strings beautifully. I'm always inspired to think about the good things in life when I hear this. Though it's a song about a relationship, I hear a general optimism in it; don't fight, just unite. This is the perfect closing number for `Vespertine'. (6/5)Bjork does such a wonderful job of showing sensitivity and frailty (and taking you on her emotional journey with her), I felt almost wiped out after the album ended. But it was satisfaction I felt, and not disappointment. This album is unlike any other Bjork album before it! However, it's definitely not for the impatient listener. You have to be in a sedated mood to listen to `Vespertine'; if you aren't, try `Homogenic' or `Post'. All diehard Bjork fans need this album, as no collection is complete without it.I find it interesting that an album so quiet and sensitive can be so optimistic. Except for `Pagan Poetry' and possibly `An Echo, A Stain', every single song on `Vespertine' is hopeful, and sweet enough to play for children (except Cocoon, of course). This is an album you can relax to; an album that allows you to let your creative mind flourish. You could draw or paint with it playing. It's an inspiration, and should be praised.	45 stars
LOVE IT! I love Loreena McKennitt's music anyway, but she brings her haunting voice to play with Christmas and winter music and it's delightful. I have her other Christmas CD as well. Enjoy both.	45 stars
great lyrics and tight beats This cd has some beats that are like ones i've never heard and the lyrics don't take any songs off. This album definitly had a lot of effort put into it and is great to listen to. I don't regret i bought it and i listen to it a lot. The only reason i didn't give it five stars is that they didn't express any of their views on life or society or realy anything, and thats what being a mc's about puting your two cents in. The cd is still very good.	34 stars
There are multiple versions of this CD I listed this CD (by UPC) and have been told that the tracks listed in some of these review are not on all of the CDs being sold here. The two version of this item are:1.Jimmy Jam Deep Remix2.Jimmy Jam Deeper Remix3.Tony Moran 12" Club Mix4.Tony Humphries Club Mix5.DJ Premier Just Tha Bassz RemixMy CD (the CORRECT UPC for this item) had this track listing:1.Radio Edit2.Jimmy Jam Deeper Radio Edit3.Jimmy Jam Deep Radio Edit4.Got 'Til It's Gone-Ummah Jay Dee's Revenge MixAnyway, check with your seller before you buy. Sometimes sellers list items that have similar titles, but are not the actual item you may be looking for.	45 stars
A legendary performance This was recorded without knowing that someday down the line, that this concert would become the breakout show putting Bruce and gang on the map in Europe. Still touring from the Born to Run release, the band knew they had something good, but did not realize how powerful of an impression they would make by playing England. Listen to this disk as if you were at the concert, seeing Bruce and the E Street band for the first time. Truly chilling and one of the best concert recording I have ever heard. This is a must for all Springsteen fans, even if you have heard the songs hundreds of times before.	45 stars
Early and mid 60's when the instrumental 45 rpm was king! First person to record the Beatles(actually in a studio) couldn't be any hipper! That Happy Feeling, Swinging Sufari, Wonderland by Night(#1). 3 O'Clock in the Morning, Strangers in the Night. One of the pillars of the 60's AM radio. More than adult contemporary, crossed over into the rock n roll radio. Great to listen to if you want relaxation. Also, you can fox-trot to it.English quick-step, too.	45 stars
If I was smarter... younger, and in college, I would write my college thesis about this album. It frickin rocks after all of these years, and either I am stupid and just love listening to the same crap all the time, or there is something really cool about this record. Basically, it's the best Def Leppard album ever! No question. Ranks up there with any Bon Scott AC/DC record. This is the epitome of rock and roll. Right here, and right now. It will always be 1983 for me, I live in 1983. What year is it anyway? Gotta go, nobody is paying me for my stupid opinion. Just listen to this over and over like I do, because I am stupid and it's always new to me. Now, I have to go drink a 12 pack and smash my head through my window, because I love the way it feels when glass breaks on my head, and it sounds cool too. Then I'll probably through up, and do it all over again the next day. Goddamn it, where is the key? Then I wouldn't have to smash the window. Cheers, Yeah!!!!	45 stars
College Jazz DJ Spins This CD Often This CD takes the cake of our schools recent plays. Every time I play a track from this CD people call and ask who it is. Song like "Lets Fall In Love" remind us that Ms. Krall can sing with the best of them. I love this CD and so does the listening public of our radio station. Another winner in a long line of great albums by Diana Krall!	45 stars
It is a CD that you will play often Robert Miles is a very thoughtful composer who pays attention to melody, harmony, and lyrics. It is easy to just want to sit back and listen to the music and let your mind become part of it. I thought it was a great CD from start to finish!	45 stars
The first stepping stone of a brilliant legacy..an essential In 1965 The Byrds released "Mr.Tambourine Man", creating a new jangle guitar sound influenced by the words of Bob Dylan. The Byrds transformed folk to a new electric guitar sound including Roger McGuinn's legendary 12-string Rickenbacker. The Byrds still remain one of America's finest rock bands and 'the proof is in the pudding' as Iggy Pop once said.From the opening chords of "Mr.Tambourine Man", it is apparent that this album is a classic. Even Bob Dylan after he heard The Byrds' recording of "Mr.Tambourine Man" was surprised and didn't record his own version until later. "I'll Feel A Whole Lot Better" was one of the few hits The Byrds had that wasn't written by someone else out of the band. Gene Clark's lyrics "I'll probably feel a whole lot better when you're gone" represents an anti-romantic song that was rarely heard in songwritting in the 60's, it is one of The Byrds strongest singles. "Spanish Harlem Incident"(a Bob Dylan cover) was a good choice as the lyrics show the mystic-folk world of The Byrds. "You Won't Have To Cry" is an early tip off of The Byrds harmonizing vocals. "Here Without You" another great example of Gene Clark's talent at songwritting and singing. "The Bells Of Rhymney" show that Pete Seeger was another strong influence of The Byrds besides Dylan. Pete Seeger adapted the lyrics from a poem by Idris Davis about a coal mining disaster in Wales. The song is very moving and beautifully done, George Harrison said this song inspired his "If I Needed Someone." "All I Really Want To Do" returns as back to another classic Byrds cover of a Dylan song classic. Its a very strong single and always a great listen. "I Knew I'd Want You" was the b-side to the original "Mr.Tambourine Man" single and shows that The Byrds didn't just start with covering Dylan, it was Gene Clark's song. "It's No Use" has a heavier sound then the rest of the album and has hints of Pink Floyd type solos and such. "Don't Doubt Yourself Baby" is one of my favorite songs musically. "Chimes Of Freedom" is the core and best song on "Mr.Tambourine Man." This Bob Dylan song reflects greatly about the times during the 60's. David Crosby was about to leave the group and refused to sing this song but manager Dickson forced him to and the result was amazing. "We'll Meet Again" ends the album on an ironic note. The bonus tracks are: "She Has A Way", "I'll Feel A Whole Lot Better(alternative version)", "It's No Use"(alternative version)", "You Won't Have To Cry(alternative version)" and "All I Really Want To Do(single version).""Mr.Tambourine Man" besides creating a new sound and setting new limits for rock, is an amazing album and may be The Byrds' best album. One thing is for sure, it's one of the best achievements in American music.	45 stars
HOLY JESUS! Most awesome CD EVER! The legendary metal band In Flames does it again! Trigger is a treat to behold.	45 stars
Robert Plant Dreamland In Robert Plant's voice I find color as in painting. I write about visual art and Robert Plant is a constant inspiration for me. I have background in music playing piano since the age of 6 and visual art master's degree. Plant is creating his songs as a painter with perfect composition, high taste of perfectionist who allow free improvisation that never fails him, total harmony. His voice is never separated from the sound of musical instruments fully integrated but at the same time the great singer allows his band mates to develop their parts without worries as he accumulates full attention to the sound of his voice."Da'kness da'kness...", he misses r avoiding more American sound. It's very sexy. "Hide my yearning for the things I can't see. Da'kness da'kness be my blanket, cover me this endless night..."His voice sounds so youthful with mix of mature fatherly voice, what a paradoxical combination for those who heard Led Zeppelin for about million times. What a perfectly preserved voice.In the end of the song seems he pronounce it "Darkness."Standing ovations please!!!	45 stars
quintessential marley Before Bob and the Wailers made their legendary recordings for Chris Blackwell at Island Records they recorded several independent albums which are currently available on the Trojan label. This CD contains the first four of those albums. Contrary to popular belief this material is far superior to the Island material, not that the Island recording aren't good. Yes the production may not be slick but everything else is absolutely stellar- the songwriting, the vocal harmonies, the lyrics-everything is completely on-the-one. Versions of songs which were later re-recorded for Island are delivered with serious conviction, including the two great Peter Tosh songs "400 Years" and "Stop That Train" which sound rather flat on the Island recordings. As Bob says in one song-"if you are a big tree we are a small axe"- and listening to these recordings you can believe it is true.	45 stars
Amazing. I picked up a copy of Everything In Transit (the debut album from Jack's Mannequin- Andrew McMahon of Something Corporate's side project) and was completely blown away. The moment that this album is put into your ipod, cd player, or computer, it will automatically be put onto repeat and live in your heart forever. It is the perfect mix of vocals and piano, modeling after McMahon's band Something Corporate. From 'dancey' sing alongs (Miss Delaney, La La Lie) to powerful balleds (Bruised, Dark Blue), Jack's Mannequin has surely provided fans an amazing blend of music.Everything In Transit is one of those albums that you will grow so attached to because of the amazing words and melodies, and I guarantee that every track will make you feel alive.	45 stars
Much All-time Great Nat-but just an intro... Still among the finest collections ever by one of the very top singers (and jazz pianists) ever.Out of 22 pieces,probably half are among his very finest.It's true some of these editions are perhaps not quite Nat in his best form,since there are many versions of some. But that's a minor quibble. My favorite here is "Smile" a beautiful attempt to uplift the downhearted. No other version comes close, and it seems odd that this old standard is hardly ever heard today. "Orange Colored Sky" is a nice finger snapper with a sense of humor. "Walkin my Baby" is with Billy May, the brassiest number here.Many of the most famous are all here:"Mona Lisa","Straighten Up","Nature Boy",etc.I wish "Stay as Sweet as You Are" were here too, but you can't always get what you want. The two versions of "Unforgettable" really complete a very nice package. Nat was a super class act,and one wonders where he would have gone if he had not died in young middle age (45).No, you cannot go wrong with Nat's best!!	45 stars
the brother of an eminem fan!!! ... This cd could have been better if it had less pointless skits, and gross lyrics and swearing. Don't get me wrong the swearing doesn't bother me but its kinda boring to always hear swearing and the rapping could have been more vicious. Oh well heres a little info on each track.1.CURTAINS UP(skit): you hear classical music and then you hear foot steps and then you hear eminem say hello.2.WHITE AMERICA: a great vicious song with very angry lyrics. I like eminems vicious rap, ... Great song, and interesting chorus. 8/103.BUSINESS: a very catchy song, with interesting sound affects, and yes it is great to party to, but i think i prefer him vicious. Good song. 7/104.CLEANIN OUT MY CLOSET: a song about his life. This song shows his talent at songwriting, though i think this song was way to overplayed and too slow. 6/105.SQUARE DANCE: another catchy, interesting song. The ending of this song really remindes of the song on his old album called amityville. This also is another good song to party to. 7/106.THE KISS(skit): talks about how he went to jail, nothing special.7.SOLDIER: yay another vicious song. This song as well has very angry lyrics, and i love the sound effect in the middle where you hear gun shots and sirens, excellent. 9/108.SUPERMAN:i don't like this song he sounds like a popstar with an annoying voice. 3/109.DRIPS: a very gross song featuring some ... rapper named obie trice. This song is very boring. If you enjoy eminems vulgar stuff you'l like it ... 2/1010.WITHOUT ME: a ridiculously overplayed song, and yes its weak and he sounds very up himself in this song. 4/1011.PAUL ROSENBERG(skit): his well known by eminem fans for his ... skits.12.SING FOR THE MOMENT: a between vicious rap, weak rap song, with sad lyrics. This song is quite sad, and the chorus sounds cool with Aero smith in it, and i like the bluesy guitar at the end thats cool. 8/1013.SUPERMAN: just a song talking about girls. Not very interesting lyrics, but his rapping is very smooth and it goes well with the music. This song is very relaxing. 7/1014.HAILIE'S SONG: you propbably wont agree with me but i kinda think this song [is substandard], and no offence to him because he was trying his best to sing, ..., and it has to be the most overated song he's ever done. I just don't see whats the big deal about people going "oh my god he can sing", well so what if he can. Since this is a sweet song i added marks to it. 5/1015.STEVE BERMAN: sort of funny.16.WHEN THE MUSIC STOPS: starts off with very scary music. A very dark song with disturbing lyrics. A bit too rappy to my liking but i think it needs a 6/1017.SAY WHAT YOU SAY: a very unoriginal song by em. It features Dr Dre, but there really is nothing special about this song. 5/1018.TILL I COLLAPSE: features nate dogg. Starts off with an army march kinda music, not bad, pretty good but the chorus is a little repetitive and boring which is done by nate dogg. 6/1019.MY DAD'S GONE CRAZY: a cute song featuring his daughter Hailie Jade, though i think their kinda mucking around in this song. Hailie sounds cute when she sings but she also sounds annoyin. 6/1020.CURTAINS CLOSE(skit): pretty funny.lokk please note that if you thought i was rating this a bit harsh please not that im not a fan of him and i would much prefer listen to metal. Thank you for reading.	23 stars
Williams strikes back!! This latest installment of the Star Wars saga promises to be a landmark in filmaking. The score of Williams complements this completly. Not only does the Imperial March return, but the force theme, the main theme, duel of the fates, yoda's theme, anakin's them and some similar motiffs. His electric guitar for the nightclub scene is musically fascinating. The epic sound of the last few tracks left me with a feeling of forebooding. When the final release comes out like always, it will be intruguing to see all of the amazing music from this awesome composer and an awesome movie. However buying this CD is also a must because of the differences it will have with the other release.	45 stars
Boom! I got this album at one of their concerts at the Chain Reaction. These guys have a special talent that was placed into this album. This album has a very heavy, powerful, mind bashing quality to it. I went nuts at the concert, and I go nuts when I listen to this album.	45 stars
KATHY DID YOU KNOW... it was hard to believe you could ever top your classic GOOD NEWS CD from 1993. Joy to the World? This is a wonderful follow-up just as good if not somewhat better than the first. Your voice has never sounded better and you caress each song with the warmth and beauty of this wonderful Christmas season. The arrangements are superb and the overall effect is like standing before the manger. It's that good. The CHRISTMAS COLLAGE is great--love the way you combine the carols in counterpoint; your arrangements of the chestnuts UNTO US A CHILD IS BORN, ANGELS WE HAVE HEARD ON HIGH and HARK THE HERALD ANGELS are uplifting and fresh. Like hearing them for the first time. OH COME ALL YE FAITHFUL...oh what a rendition. Although not one of my favorite carols/hymns, your reworking with the contemporary gospel feel and the pipe organ...oh, my, Joy to the World again! Marc Cohn's BABY KING is a nice change of pace, as aree STRAW AGAINST THE CHILL (gorgeous), ALL BECAUSE OF HIM and SING MARY SING. The heart-wrenching THERE'S STILL MY JOY is touching and reverent. And your Dad's finale is perfect. Oh, what a joy you are to the music industry. Country music may have somewhat abandoned you, but not those fans who realize what a voice you have, what a contribution you have made and continue to make in this generation of rap and hip-hop. Thank God for Narada and for your faith in your talents. God bless, Merry Christmas and thanks for such a wonderful gift!	45 stars
A Big Disappointment This album had tons of hype before its release. But I don't think it lived up to any of it. The instrumental skill exhibited on this album is nothing compared to Metallica's past. The guitar riffs are simple, many of them use the same chords. Also, Kirk has no solos. I've always thought he was a tad overrated, but its not like he can't play a good solo. The bass guitar is often non existent. When it can be heard, it usually isn't doing anything interesting. If Rob Trujillo was not skilled, this wouldn't be an issue. But his work with Suicidal Tendencies and Infectious Grooves(a project involving the Suicidal Tendencies singer)very good. Lars's drum lines are not that bad. But that trash can like ping noise gets annoying after a while.The songs are also mediocre. The first song, Frantic is one of the better ones. It isn't that bad (despite a simple and mediocre riff) until it reaches the "Frantic tock tic tock" chorus. Then it gets annoying. But there are a couple of memorable lyrical lines in the song. The title track, St. Anger is also one of the better songs. It has a decent riff and a couple pretty good instrumental sections. Its nice to see Lars use the double bass pedal for once. But, the lyrics are pretty stupid, and the musical, vocal and lyrical parts are repeated over and over for seven minutes. It would be much better if it were around four minutes. The next song, Some Kind of Monster is decent for the first few minutes but gets boring and repetitve after a while. IT is pretty heavy but is not interesting enough to justify its length. The next two songs are not good and are pretty boring. Song #6, My World is tolerable. However, it is the last decent song on the album. The next five are ok at best and downright bad at worst. The closer, All Within My Hand is just one more song that dragged on for too long. Its chorus is really annoying and its riff sounds a lot like Korn.To sum it up, St. Anger is a mediocre album from a once great band. St. Anger is tolerable by todays nu metal standards, but is just bad compared to Metallica's pre Black album offerings. But, I'm still hopeful Metallica will put out something worthwhile in the future. For newer SF thrash albums, you can check out the new comeback albums by Exodus(Tempo of the Damned), Death Angel, and Megadeth(The System has Failed).	12 stars
Should have gotten more air play Solid DEVO product. This should have gotten more air play. But the times were changing when it came out. MTV was into the top 10 rotation and ignored the rest.	45 stars
it is what it says it is So if this is what you want it is the real thing. but why do we have to be so wordy	45 stars
bad dvd couldn't watch the dvd, tried it in several different players, but the picture just rolled the whole time, returned item, only to get another with the same problem, hope this can be fixed before too many people order the set and find the same problem, could be a bad printing of the entire box set. Would really like to see the dvd though,hope they can straighten it out	01 star
A treasure chest of memories The Marvelettes story, among other things, is one of two very good, but entirely different lead singers - Gladys Horton & Wanda Young Rogers. As stated in the liner notes of a wonderful earlier set ("Deliver: The Singles"), and unlike the dissention in the Supremes, "There wasn't any competition between them to fight for lead vocals, Gladys points out, and she was happy to have Wanda share lead vocal duties."The results here validate that claim. While there is some overlap in 1964, the beginning years from "Please Mr. Postman" up to "Too Many Fish In The Sea" served to immortalize Horton's voice in baby-boomers' memories. Gladys has a strong and authoritative delivery, especially on girl-to-girl advice songs such as warning one to stay away from that good for nothing "Playboy," or not to waste tears because there's too many fish in the sea.In 1964, Mary Wells very abruptly decided (after some courtroom wrangling) to depart Motown, leaving producer Smokey Robinson short of the star who had been the most effective female mouthpiece for his songs ("My Guy," "Two Lovers" etc.). Aside from some brief and interesting works with Kim Weston and Brenda Holloway, Smokey set his interest on Wanda of the Marvelettes. The collective results - "Don't Mess With Bill," "The Hunter Gets Captured By The Game," "My Baby Must Be A Magician" and a few others - became the second half of the Marvelettes story and the era that immortalized Wanda's voice. Wanda stood shortest among the members of the group, and had a figure Mae West would approve. As you listen to her songs here, imagine her spotlighted in one of the skin-tight dresses Motown favored and...Ooo, baby! Smokey has said he liked to look within Motown groups for 'sleeping giants,' and he hit a jackpot in this case.The oddest entry here is an instance where Berry Gordy took over the group for a single in 1963, "My Daddy Knows Best." Just like his hits "Money" & "Got A Job," "Daddy" is a showcase for Motown's conservative, work-ethic mind-set: 'While you're in poolrooms, you should be in schoolrooms,' (Daddy said)'Romance without finance can be a nuisance,' 'Don't care what you say, we've got to do it his way,' 'Don't say that he's mean, I have to tell him everything.' What's clear here is, that while it's been well documented how Berry Gordy mentored Smokey Robinson, in this instance, some of Smokey's cleverness with lyrics instructed Berry. 'Daddy' is a virtually perfect blend of the funky and the adorable.I have read some criticism of the Marvelettes `adolescent sound,' particularly in the earlier material. Fair enough, but one should remember this group essentially went from senior classes in high school right into the recording studio. The Marvelettes were simply growing up along with their initial audience. If you missed the early 90s 2-disc set "Deliver: The Singles," that makes this 'Ultimate Collection' all the more a MUST have. But we should wish as well for the earlier, and more extensive set, to be reactivated.	45 stars
Great album! I am so glad I made this purchase! It brought back so many memories from my teen years. There is nothing like playing a record and hearing the songs the way we used to! The album played extremely well; a great purchase!	45 stars
crapper rapper, rhymes with crapper where this worthless, unmusical, garbage needs to be. Do yourself a favor and dont buy garbage like this no talent,nonsinging, egotistical maniac so called musician	01 star
Nat King Cole anthology The CD's ( it was a box set) arrived w/in a week, and are in excellent condition.Thank you,Jerry Aubry-	45 stars
teaser Well as usual.... Can't go wrong w/ the Firehose name. But... ya better buy If'n for the bang for your buck and get this if ya have to have that 3rd song...	45 stars
A great instrumental band! I really love good instrumental/surf music and The Revels are no exception. Sundazed has done it again. I would recommend this to anyone who likes this music along with the "Lost Legends of Surf Guitar" series, also from Sundazed.	45 stars
Kerplunk Kerplunk is deffinitely Green Day's best cd. It's a classic practically. That's why I love it. They haven't turned too poppy yet in this cd.	45 stars
simply good This CD is the best on the Cranberries ever released. You can listen to the whole CD without skipping a song.	45 stars
blah I too did not care for this CD. Every song sounded the same and I found it to be boring. I guess this is what happens when you can get a cd for dirt cheap. I'm glad some people are enjoying it because I'm surely not.	01 star
Howe does it 3 1/2Howe is an always engaging enough electric soloist, regardless if his early 90's output has too much of a generic rock-funk backbone, to keep things stimulating enough for the virtuoso enthusiast to enjoy, as well as the casual rocker.	23 stars
Things change The talent is evident, but none of the songs demand to be heard like before. And since I got into SDRE very recently, I can confidently say that nostalgia does not affect my judgement here. The Fire Theft sounds more like craftsmanship than artistry. I get the same magic that I did from How It Feels (my favorite album of theirs), but it only lasts for a section of a song here and there. It seems as though the source of their inspiration has moved away from what moves me. And what moves me no longer moves them.It's almost like running into an old girlfriend and finding out that you have nothing in common any more. She's forgotten all the things you like and is into things that you don't think are very interesting. In both cases, though, we at least have the memories to fall back on. And in the case of SDRE/Fire Theft, we even have the old albums we can pop in the player any time. If this album disappoints you as it did me, do not lament. Instead, listen to the earlier stuff again and celebrate the fact that those albums were made in the first place and are still in print.In their continuing quest to evolve, I think they've made a few missteps, like the minute-long outro that takes the fire right out of the otherwise dark and propulsive "Carry You." Experimentally entertaining, yes, but I wish they had cut the last section into a separate segue track. I think that section stands better on its own as a separate piece and would be all the more interesting for its featured placement.The self-titled album is certainly a respectable artistic achievement. They haven't gone overboard into adult contemporary or something. They haven't sold out to the synth like so many bands tragically did in the 80s. And while the strings are a bit much, they never feel like an attempt to artificially inflate the appeal of a song. It's just workmanlike by comparison. Passion for making music is still strong, but the often harrowing sonic therapy of their earlier work has apparently been concluded to Enigk's satisfaction. The nearly schizophrenic highs and lows and unique sound that made them a magnetic listen have solved with the pill of time, and what's left is sturdy, pleasant, and not especially memorable.	23 stars
For the Cars-o-phile Seeing The Cars in an early small club setting was priceless.However, since the production quality of this release leaves quite a bit to be desired, I can only recommend it to fans of the band.	34 stars
Awesome violin pyrotechnics!! Are you looking for a DVD performance of the complete 24 Caprices of Paganini? This is the only one that I know of, and it is a knockout! Markov is a fantastic violinist who manages to infuse these finger-busters with real musical life. To be sure, this is a video production. Some of the scenes are before a live audience, but some are not, and I can't be sure if single caprices are filmed entirely without editing and retakes. But that is not a problem. This is violin acrobatics of a very tall order, and I for one am more than willing to put up with the occasional clever cinematography (multiple images, etc.) that the director seemed to feel added something to the film. If you love the violin, GET THIS NOW! Bravo Alexander!! Ten stars!	45 stars
Oops!... I did it again OOPS!... I DID IT AGAIN!1. Oops!...I Did It Again 100/102. Stronger 10/103. Don't Go Knockin' On My Door 5/104. (I Can't Get No) Satisfaction 10/105. Don't Let Me Be The Last To Know 6/106. What U See (Is What U Get) 9/107. Lucky 10/108. One Kiss From You 7/109. Where Are You Now 10/1010. Can't Make You Love Me 4/1011. When Your Eyes Say It 5/1012. Dear Diary 3/10It's great job!!	45 stars
Now or Never Nick Carter's "Now or Never" is a great album. I think he will definately go far in his solo career. Backstreet Boys helped make him known all over the world, and I think this is just the beginning for him. I have waited so long for this to come out. I am a huge Nick Carter fan and I hope there are many more! I am made fun of alot since I am 21 and am crazy about a Backstreet Boy. But I don't care because my opinion is all that matters.I can really relate to many of the songs on "Now or Never". It makes me think of all the good and the bad experiences I have gone through. He has such a wonderful voice, too. I just keep playing the cd over and over. I think it is great for anyone and any age. I highly recommend it. Go buy Nick Carter's "Now or Never" TODAY!!	45 stars
Extraordinary! -- From his wit, warmth, and brilliantly precise and accurate use of language, to a band that cannot be topped, as a whole or as individual players, this is a transcendent performance. His voice is gorgeous, his use of words sharp and equisite, so apt no other words could do, and his demeanor joyful and welcoming.And that's the singing part of it.As great and seriously fun are his thematic interludes and poems.Stellar all around.Difficult to find, prices at premium, yet worth every penny, dime, and dollar.	45 stars
Thank God for Bloc Party!!!!! When I first heard Silent Alarm, I thought this is my favorite new band. They are completly original and smart. Then I heard...A Weekend in the City and I was positive that this was my favorite new band. They have a real rock sound with a dancable beat, and are perfect when in the car. I play this Cd all the time and everytime someone asks what is that you are listen to...it sounds so different and cool. I have shared this album with many others and they are believers too. Bloc Party have a edge that most bands don't today....they do their own thing and don't worry about what is hip or cool, this in turn makes them utterly cool and brilliant. They have the ability to be angry, sad, and happy all at the same time. Awesome.	45 stars
Superb! Rostropovich and Guilini collaborated seemlessly in both concerti. However, the microphone picked up Cellist's breathing a few times. Yet, it's still a must-have for cello fans.	45 stars
Sly Is This Really The Last We'll Be Hearing From You? 'Ain't But The One Way' is the last Sly & The Family Stone album ever released.It is often described as being from 1983 but it's not-it was released in 1980 as a follow up to the previous years 'Back On The Right Track'.Unfortunately the album is nothing really special.Sly seems to wish the album to be a little slicker but that slickness is tracing paper thin and only works well on "Ha Ha,Hee Hee" and that only sounds like an weak Earth Wind & Fire."L.O.V.I.N U","One Way","Hobo Man" and "We Can Do It" are all highly funky and try at pop hooks but for some reason end up sounding very,very,very,very formuliac and boring.There is really nothing here that Sly Stone hasn't done since 1973 and he sounds pretty board a lot."Who The Funk Do You Think You Are" is by far the best thing on the album-it draws Sly back to the rock ideom he'd abandoned early in the 70's:if he's taken a cue from this song and arranged an album of songs in a more diverse mode this album would be salvagable.A cover of "You Really Got Me" is nice but Sly isn't known for covers and it just shows he's down to the end of his bag of tricks."High,Y'all" is a fairly pleasant attempt at replicated Sly's late 60's sound but it also points out this albums main weaknessess:'Ain't But The One Way' is just Sly Stone recycling the past because he has nothing new and innovative to offer.This should be a testement to all artists facing drug addiction in some way because that was a large part of Sly's decline.If your one of those people who has to have every Sly album around by all means get this one.But me,even being a person tolerant of R&B mishaps of all kinds and especially of the Family Stone I found this dissappointing.Maybe you'll feel differently.	23 stars
Good Move!!! I often wonder why some titles are " Sat on " when they could be sold to the public. Well i am glad for those who missed this the first time around that they have let it back out to the public. I love!!! this CD. It is great and in my view the best so far of the ER releases. Mode for joe is My favorite cut (Dare i say of all time) As a reward for reading this review, i will hip you to a secret. It's called " Darn that Dream " It's on " Real Time Records " It is Art Peppers Last gig, and i think he knew it. His version of Mode for Joe and Green Dolphin Street are off the planet. They rival and depend on my mood even top this CD. They are 1 and 2 in my collection and often trade places. If you even half way like the Eatern Rebellion CD then PLEASE!! Get "Darn That Dream" before it (If not already) Goes out of print.	45 stars
The Delicate Beauty Of Her Voice The number of reviews alone should indicate the impact this long awaited album has had on people. First of all some of the criticism is accurate, in that the album is very short and that some of the songs do sound very similar to past tunes and styles.But what lifts it are 2 truly outstanding songs : "Wild Child" and "Only Time". The first is simply exhilarating , the music , lyrics and Enya's lovely voice blend seamlessly like colours of the rainbow, its impossible to separate the 3 into separate components. Another interesting feature is that you only appreciate the harmony if you set your CD volume at the right level : too soft and you miss some of the rich tones , too loud and the voice begins to sound dissonant and dominate over the other two components. I have noticed the same feature in some of Bach's piano sonatas. I guess this shows that what seems like effortless joy hides a great deal of structural complexity. Astonishing as it seems , I think Enya has yet to reach her peak as a creative artist. Some of the reviews suggest she is just recycling old tunes and randomly mixing them up like a Boy Band, but the ability to produce something like "Wild Child" shows how wrong they are in writing her off.The second outstanding song "Only Time" is as melancholy as "Wild Child" is refreshing. And yet Enya's voice sounds the same in both , showing that she is able to control her vocal range at a very subtle level.The rest of the album has some tunes you will find yourself unconsciously humming the more you listen to the album. There are also songs like "Deora Ar Mo Chrol" where one does not care what the words mean, you are just overwhelmed by the delicate beauty of her voice.To summarise , its much easier to criticize than it is to create. When you compare this album against the monotonous, ubiquitous trash produced by MTV "artists" it stands out as something rare and fine. The famous fantasy writer Stephen J Donaldson coined the memorable phrase "Something there be in beauty" in one of his most famous books. The same could be said of Enya's composing style.I once read in one of her rare interviews that she spends much of her time in silence in cathedrals as she loves the atmosphere. Perhaps the long time she spends composing and perfecting her work is her way of giving back a little ofwhat she has so evidently received.I look forward to her next effort, and feel blessed to have listened to A Day Without Rain, parts of which I'll treasure forever.	34 stars
A magical world that has never been bettered [I originally wrote a seperate review, called "A magical world that has never better", posted August 23, 1998, on Amazon.com. Because it is marked as a private review it is not listed under my profile. As this is the original review, of which the second one from 2000 is modelled after (hence the 2.0 in the review title), I thought I would include it here.Mike London, October 18, 2007]-----Review I."A magical world that has never been bettered" August 23, 1998This whole album is a masterpiece. Nothing has been done before or since that can equal this one. Of course its been said a zillion times, but its really true. I bought it in Christmas last year (1997), and as I listened to it, it got better and better. For me, The Beatles (at first) took some time getting used too. Then they got stronger and stronger. On this record, they do almost the impossible. They create an entire magical fantasy. Its delishisouly (spelling?) sweet. The First Concept Album was indeed the finest. Everything works well with the concept. The album sleeve works better with the music than any I have seen. They help endear us to this wonderful world The Beatles are taking us too. At first I thought it was a bunch of hype, and the reason I bought it was because I was rapidly sinking (regressing, some of the younger people I know say) into the older music. I wanted Sgt Pepper cause everyone talked about it and had never heard it. This record will never be equalled, I fear. I wish it would, because I would love to do some more exploring. They took us on a Magical Mystery Tour on this one. Ironic, they did exactly that on this record, and though it was a concept album I don't think it was their intention, and then they made a concept movie with this in mind, and they didn't do that well (for The Beatles). If you want a record like no other, go out and buy this right now.Another great record that came out the same year is The Doors (debut). If it weren't for this, that would easily be the best for that year. But Sgt Pepper has surpassed all others. The Beatles never were able to do it again. They did get it in isolated moments, but never for the whole record like on this. No one else has ever come close. This deserves all the acclaim it gets.-----Review II"A Magical World Never Bettered: V 2.0" January 14, 2000This whole album is a masterpiece. Nothing has been done before or since that can equal this one. Of course its been said a zillion times, but its really true. I bought it in Christmas back a few years ago (1997), and as I listened to it, it got better and better. For me, The Beatles (at first) took some time getting used too. Then they got stronger and stronger. On this record, they do almost the impossible. They create an entire magical fantasy. Its delishisouly (spelling?) sweet. The First Concept Album was indeed the finest. Everything works well with the concept. The album sleeve works better with the music than any I have seen. They help endear us to this wonderful world The Beatles are taking us too. At first I thought it was a bunch of hype, and the reason I bought it was because I was rapidly sinking (regressing, some of the younger people I know say) into the older music. I wanted Sgt Pepper cause everyone talked about it and had never heard it. This record will never be equalled, I fear. I wish it would, because I would love to do some more exploring. They took us on a Magical Mystery Tour on this one. Ironic, they did exactly that on this record, and though it was a concept album I don't think it was their intention, and then they made a concept movie with this in mind, and they didn't do that well (for The Beatles). If you want a record like no other, go out and buy this right now. Another great record that came out the same year is The Doors (debut). If it weren't for this, that would easily be the best for that year. But Sgt Pepper has surpassed all others. The Beatles never were able to do it again. They did get it in isolated moments, but never for the whole record like on this. No one else has ever come close. This deserves all the acclaim it gets.As far as personal favorites go, however, I still enjoy the White Album the most. Rubber Soul and Revolver are good also (Rubber Soul is better than Revolver, tho' Revolver is more of a break thru). YOu could see the dircetion they were going with a few of the songs off Help! Some of that material is on level with Rubber Soul. Abbey Road, which I didn't care much for now, I really enjoy now. Sgt Pepper, however, is the cultural milestone to end all cultural milestones.	45 stars
The Tank is Empty The reason Kweli's albums keep getting compared to Reflection Eternal and Black Star is because that material is by far his best. Those were amazing records. More recently, it's been like he's putting out entire CDs full of nothing but filler. A lot of third-rate material that would not have made the cut before.But still, I keep buying his records on the strength of material he put out a long time ago. But no more. Once again, he puts out a disappointing CD. You could go into all the details, but when you get down to it, it's just not very good. Most of it is OK, none of it is great. It's music that if your heard on the radio, you might let it play, you might change the station. But you'd never say "I want to hear that again."Ironically, on one track he even lists all the criticisms he gets from fans, about all the things he tends to do wrong (like, "Please Kweli, don't try to get your mack on") - so it's clear he's heard the criticism. I think he's just doesn't have it anymore. He had a few albums-worth of incredible material (plus "Get By"), and that was it. The tank is empty. So put on some Re-Definition or Four Women and don't bother with the new stuff.	12 stars
Sheila in Savannah This is my favorite Temptations album. I remember this album when I was in high school. The recordings are just fantastic. I can't understand why the radio stations didn't play Say You, Fade Away, Little Miss Sweetness, and You're Not An Odinary Girl. These should been hits.	45 stars
" BIOHAZARD CDS MATERIAL " WILL BLOW YOUR MIND. BUY IT !!! My take on this clones, buckle up this " MUST HEAR CDS " TOKYO- Tony De Vit the Zen Master (peace w/you). Both cds compilation is "AWESOME" will transport you mind and body from ground zero to zero gravity of serious " Bumpin ". I higly recommend this pumpin Techno / House madness. It's seamless beat (excexpt placing between cd2). Im Out !	45 stars
The Discussion Begins The Dan K Theory (out of Athens, Ga.) combines alot of talent and some "JAMMING" details...this is good, smiling jam/funk/jazz oriented music and not a bad cut on it. JJ Cale and Funky Meters influences; and maybe a little Phish-y-esque on the ends..and some additional pedal steel by Atlanta artist, Mark Van Allen round this out nicely.	34 stars
awesome r&b album I'm really pleased with this new release from mariah. I believe this her best album yet. she really let's you into her world and has the listener understand what she as a person is all about.i believe this album defines herself as a true artist and she's being herself,FINALLY!i can't begin to pick out the songs that are hot becasuse the whole album is slammin'. but i will say if you want a good laugh, listen to "Clown" another favorite is "The One" and "Subtle Invitation"	45 stars
Yes Australia- This is the Best Album of All Time I agree with you Australia- this is the best album of all-time. I have yet to hear an album that combines as much passion and energy as "A Pagan Place" does. Saw them open up for U2 during the 14 city 'Unforgettable Fire' tour of America- they blew me away.	45 stars
awsome! this single was awsome and there r more awsome singles coming from the best PUNK ROCK BAND . they r they the best no one can put them down. and who ever does put them down is stupid cause these guys r not sell outs just because there fame got bigger doesnt mean they r sell outs they will never be sell outs . As long as they treat there fans they way they r treating them and they never complain they r not sell outs .	45 stars
Clapton and friends Outstanding, super, great, fun - what else can I say? We really enjoyed it - so much so that we purchased two of them for gifts.	45 stars
The blinding magnificence that is Michael Penn The first time I was exposed to Michael Penn was when I saw him on MTV2 - with the "Try" video from his Resigned album. The next day, I purchased the cd, and as I listened to Resigned, and his other 2 previous albums, I fell in love with his sound. I eagerly anticipated MP4 and bought it the day it came out. I was, yet again, amazed. It made me smile, and it made me want to give Mr. Penn a great big hug. As a long-time listener, I find it hard not to say that he sounds a little like the Beatles; he has McCartney's gift for exquisite melody and Lennon's ability to pour himself out on paper and into song with lyrical perfection. I highly reccomend this album... Michael Penn is incredibly talented, and he never ceases to amaze me.	45 stars