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Bonus Tracks = 4 Stars
Ideally, the bonus tracks and demo tracks would have emerged as b-sides to singles or as an EP in their own right. One track, the demo of "This Old Town," surpasses the final version included on the original release. The bonus tracks "Home" and "Around the Roses" are quality additions, and better than most other bands' singles. The "Big Weekend" demo is less necessary.If you don't own the album yet (five stars in its own right!), this is definitely the edition to get--the additional tracks are worth the extra dinero (although the "leather" packaging is slightly more of a questionable enhancement). But what if you already bought the original version? Find the added tracks on iTunes (if they're available...) or else wait for the used price of this one to drop significantly to, say, $8.98 or less. | 34 stars
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Beautiful & powerful masterpiece
ELP wanted to get Salvador Dali to do the cover. Too bad they couldn't afford him. Otherwise, this is a perfect album. | 45 stars
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Minor Planets Rule My Universe
With the twined blossoms of the pure and plantive vocals of siren Dana Thompson and the cooly intelligent, poetic murmur of songwriting partner Eric Christopher, this music flowers like a pale spring lily, nodding in the fog. A wonderful debut that hints masterfully at the great promise to come. One of the premiere new alt-country bands! | 45 stars
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Don't believe the lazy comparisons.
It's unimaginative (and franky inaccurate) to compare Coldplay to Radiohead. Sure, they're both from England, they both play guitars, and have great, passionate singers, but all comparisons should end at this superficial level. For, whereas the latter band (whose lyrical credo is "don't get sentimental/it always ends up drivel") cloaks its treatises on millenial angst and hopelessness at the hands of technology in a dense mileu of processed guitars, cut-up beats, and icy analogue synths, the latter offers a decidedly earthier proposition. On "Parachutes" acoustic guitars coexist tranquilly with understated, chiming electric guitar flourishes. Guitar effects and treatments are nonexistant. And there's nary a synthesizer to be found on the entire record! Instead, the occasional piano line augments the songs' straightforward guitar-bass-drums arrangements. So far, so indie--i.e. banal, boring, gutless, etc. Yet despite the traditional nature of the arrangements, the songs propel themselves nicely, even soulfully, with an effortless flow that no amount of studio wizardry can generate. These songs have no need to hide behind frippery and their young progenitors know it.Oh, and that VOICE... It instantly switches gears from slight raspiness to mellifluous croon and back again. But it's not just a vacuous, pretty sound. Chris Martin's vocals are replete with feeling. There's a resigned weariness and a feeling of tender hurt embedded in his vocal phrasings that simply cannot be found in 99% of English indie-pop offerings. So when Martin intones "I'll always be waiting for you" on "Shiver" the listener doesn't get the sense that this is the "sentimental drivel" decried by Thom Yorke, but rather the sincere declaration of one who feels deeply. Later, on album-closer "Everything's not lost", Martin's repeated incantations of the song's title, punctuated with exultant shouts of "come on, yeah!" and "sing out, yeah!" transports the music to an uplifting, redemptive apex. Rare indeed is the band that can rise abouve the banality of straightforward indie-pop with its inherent mediocrity, but here Coldplay succeeds--triumphs, even--in employing a genre that many would call tired, and infusing it with real emotional depth while skillfully avoiding sappy sentiment. | 34 stars
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Monumental Work Of Art.
This is a terrific CD. I highly recommend it. | 45 stars
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I haven't heard it yet
Hi I haven't heard the CD yet, but I love the songs on Cartoon Network! I think Power Puffs rock and "It smells like Cartoon Planet" is cool too. I think the songs wouldve been perfect if the added some Toonami songs like the opening to Reboot or Dragon Ball Z (that's my fave show). Other than that, I think I will be buying it very soon! | 34 stars
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Truly Alive and Rockin'!!!
Mick Jones and company -- you rock!!! This is just a fabulous Foreigner performance!!! (Sorry about Lou Gramm -- loved him!!) Kelly Hansen is just great! He pours tons of energy and his soul into this concert. His voice is strong and he is an entertainer!! Mick Jones is one of the the most amazing guitarists in the world!! Thom Gimbal on sax, flute, rhythm guitar; bassist Jeff Pilson (Dokken); Michael Blumenthal keyboards and Jason Bonham are all on top of their games. No ballads here as the venue is the "Bang Your Head" festival in Germany -- they only have an hour alotted. There is an even harder edge to the songs. The guitar prelude to "Urgent" rocks; Thom Gimbal just rips on the sax part and "Juke Box Hero/Whole Lotta Love" brings down the house -- Jason is amazing. We were fortunate to see Foreigner live two weeks ago and they are truly better than ever!!! Kelly leapt from the stage into the audience and was hopping on the chair backs which delighted the audience!! I was two feet away from Mick and if anyone doubts his guitar greatness -- I assure you he is the best he's ever been. The band came to a nearby restaurant for dinner and graciously autographed my DVD! This is a must buy DVD! (Kelly does use a bit of profanity on the DVD -- no problem -- that was a tough looking crowd!!) He did not do that at our concert -- they were truly a classy show. If you want to hear great renditions of the ballads and a longer program, do buy "Live at Deer Creek" (1993). Lou Gramm is with them on this DVD and sings "That Was Yesterday," with Mick on keyboard -- outside -- beautiful photograpy. "Until the End of Time," "Waiting for A Girl..", "I Wanna Know What Love Is," -- all there and beautifully performed. If you have both of these DVDs, you'll have the best of rock and ballad; Lou and Kelly and of course, Mick and the band. | 45 stars
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Another gift.
Yes my husband liked it. I wish you would quit asking me to say more...... five more words...la la la | 34 stars
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Oh boy! Here we go again....
I hate to sound like a snob, but I cant seem to understand ROSS ROBINSON is getting so much good press these days. From a personal stand point, I can think of at least five better rock/metal producers other than "double R"(Albini,Rock, Rubin and the ones jumping out at me). So not being a fan of Robinson's flash/controversy/groove-style of producing, needless to say I am NOT impressed by Slipknot's debut.Slipknot basically is coming into a time of music where your time in the spotlight is destined to be short and unmemorable and instead of doing something to change this, they just add fuel to the fire. The riffy on this cd sounds like old retreds of songs we heard from Korn, Soulfly,and Pantera we heard from a long time ago. So that there adds nothing new to today's current "clone happy" market. The lyrics(and vocalist,for that matter) also adds nothing new to the current heavy scene. Soft at one point, Pantera-like at another. The three drummers is just a little ecessive in my opinion. And their most loathable charateristic? The turntables. Is it really nessary to have "scratching" in rock music? Personally, I think its almost become cliche`d.So in the end, what are you left with? Not much that you haven't already heard(and can do much better). However, if this is the type of music you like, I highly recomend Machine Head(new or old). I believe they are a much better choice. But then again, I could just be being synical. The funny thing is; you'll never know ^_^. | 01 star
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Live Lightfoot
This is a wonderful DVD. For those of us who have seen him in concert throughout his career, this is an excellent example of Lightfoot now, and it feels like a Lightfoot concert (yes, there are rude people in the audience who insist on yelling "Rock and Roll", even in Massey Hall.) Lightfoot's voice is different than it once was, not better or worse but different. Perhaps one of the very best things about this is the musicans who are a part of Lightfoot's show. They back him up without being obtrusive, functioning like a well oiled machine.Probably hard core Lightfoot fans will appreciate this more than people who remember him only for "Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald", but it is a pleasure to see Lightfoot perform. | 45 stars
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Their best album since "Going For The One"
Seriously, this is their best work in over twenty years. Aftermaking five or six of the best prog albums of the 1970's, thegroup dried up very quickly and went straight into dinosaurmode: 1978's "Tormato" was a weak prog effort, 1980's "Drama"an unsuccessful attempt to replace singer Jon Anderson, andthe two 80s albums "90125" and "Big Generator" modernized theirsound but in the most commercial, AOR-fashioned way. The 90swere even worse, as the band tried to reconcile their 70s progroots with their commercial 80s sound, to no avail: "Union"united the members of both lineups but sank under its own weight,"Talk" and "Open Our Eyes" were dominated by Trevor Rabin's80s sensibility but neither could produce a track half as memorable as "Owner Of A Lonely Heart", and the two "Keys To Ascension" albums tried hard to return to the ultra-prog yearsof "Close To The Edge" and "Tales" but were only partly successful (the best cuts remained the live retreads of 70s material, but why not just get 1973's "Yessongs" instead?).Suddenly, with "The Ladder", the band have found inspirationagain. The album still tries to unite both 70s and 80s stylesbut does this far more successfully than before, mainly becausethe band's energy level is high and they are writing memorabletunes for a change. For the first time in decades, thepop numbers (mostly) don't sound cheezy and the prog numbersavoid indulgence and excess; Yes even seems to have steppedinto the late 90s with several tracks using modern productiontechniques and acoustic world-music instrumentation to surprisingly creative effect. Forget anything you've heard aboutHowe sounding below-par on this album--he's just fine, especially when playing acoustic.The opening track "Homeworld" is the best song they have writtensince 1977; rather than diving too far into murky 25-minute epics they haven't had any practice in since 1974, they have returned to the appealing 9-10 minute prog style of albums like"The Yes Album" and "Fragile", which were complex yet stillfocused and catchy, and most importantly, *rocking*. "Homeworld"easily takes its place next to tracks like "Yours Is No Disgrace", "Roundabout" and "South Side Of The Sky", and thenew keyboardist does a great Wakeman impression (especially sinceWakeman demonstrated on the "Keys" albums that he is now a shadow of his former self). The other epic "New Languages"is nearly as good, especially the virtuosic opening and satisfying climax. To my delight, many of the shorter numbers were equally enjoyable: "Lightning Strikes" and "Face To Face"are fiercely energetic and feature very catchy, intricatechoruses with a unique blend of acoustic and electronic arrangements, "Finally" splits itself equally between an AOR/80s rock opening and a gorgeous acoustic ballad reminsicentof "Soon" from "Relayer", and the closing "Nine Voices" takes one back to "Your Move" or "Wondrous Stories". The whole groupsounds like they are in extremely high spirits throughout, a feeling very reminiscent of "Going For The One" where everything just came naturally. Rather than feeling like a labored attempt at trying to reconcile the group's 70s and 80sfanbases, the blend of the two styles is so seamless here that the end result simply sounds like what it should: good Yes music, period (although admittedly, the best tracks are more 70sinfluenced).Nonetheless, there are some noticeable weak points--Anderson'slyrics are fairly simplistic throughout, and these lyricsat times influence the music to become soppy treacle on "It Will Be A Good Day" and "If Only You Knew". "The Messenger" is theweakest rocker, although unlike most fans I thought that "Can I?" was a worthy followup to "We Have Heaven". Overall, if Anderson had tried a bit harder on the words and the two or threeworst tracks had been excised (which is easy enough to do on one's CD player), "The Ladder" could have been a five-star40-45 minute album, just the length it would have been in the70s. It truly is the long-overdue artistic return of a bandthat defined progressive rock in the 70s--perhaps not their mostcomplex work, but one of their most energetic, high spiritedand emotionally satisfying (and complex and creative enough to satiate one's appetite). So, forget everything between 1978 and1998 and marvel at tracks like "Homeworld", "Face To Face" and"Nine Voices". | 34 stars
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best album so far......
This is by far the best garth has recorded,I've been a fan since his first album which was his best until sevens. This one has it all!!! | 45 stars
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Love there Music!
There older music is better then the new music they came out with. They seemed to change there style and I won't buy any of there new music until I hear things that they used to play. I love the older music! | 45 stars
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An album for trance music fans
A Lively Mind is Oakenfold's most recent effort and has been criticized by many who don't realize where the true quality of his mixes are to be found. It is not in the idvidual tracks, but the overall product. As a party DJ, Paul Oakenfold has prefected the transition process from song to song, thus this is an album best listened to in its entirety instead of one that has 1 or 2 stand-out tracks. The facts are out there, Oakenfold is good at what he does: in an annual Top 100 DJ poll, Paul slipped into 9th place last year. | 23 stars
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Almost made it
When I first put this CD in, it sounded like it was going to be a great album. But as the songs go by, it starts to get very annoying. The guitar and lead singer combination is great, but the horrible (should I say) "pseudo-rap" mixed in just ruins it. It is really sad. I mean these guys have what it takes to be a great band, but the rapping makes Kid Rock look like the Master (and might I say, Kid Rock is about the lamest rapper out there). Good rapping is very difficult, and these guys sound more like they're talking. There is no groove or feel to the rap they do on this album. If they were smart, they'd drop it and stick to the melodic hard rock that they're more than capable of producing. | 12 stars
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The same, but different
I like Evanescence. It's not often that I'm impressed by a band with this type of sound. Most music in this genre sounds repetitive and derivative to me, with one band being very like another. Evanescence consists of pretty much the same stuff that you hear on your alternative radio stations, but I place them a cut above the rest. I couldn't tell you what it is that makes me like them more than other bands. It's just something in the total package that hits a sweet spot in my head.The song that gets all the air play, "Bring Me to Life," is a pretty good example of what you'll find in the other tracks. My favorites are the opener, "Going Under," and track 8, "Taking Over Me."The only thing I can point to that makes Evanescence truly different is Amy Lee on vocals. Her voice is a clarion call that makes my spine tingle. I don't think a voice alone is enough to carry a band, but you should hear this album at least once, just for her singing, even if you don't buy it.This album is very solid. It's nothing you haven't heard before, but I think it works better when Evanescence does it. You won't regret buying this CD. | 34 stars
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Easily Her Best Album to Date
I actually prefer this album to all her others, so it's no wonder why I'd title my review as such. It was almost tied with "From the Choirgirl Hotel" until I realized that I tend to listen to more of the songs on this one. This album just captures her fire more. I just love the edge from this album. I love how she played the piano back and forth between mellow and fiery, most notably in "Yes, Anastasia." I miss her classic style, but I can at least appreciate her newer material and realize that she has matured as a mother (whose daughter, by the way, has an amazing vocal with huge potential).Tori has been my all-time favorite for many years now. I have all her albums and many of her singles. I couldn't imagine life without a new Tori album, but I'll always treasure her classics more than anything. There's no reason for me to give this album less than five stars. It's an enjoyable classic. | 45 stars
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Rock on!
Ok, people talk a lot about the chemistry between Flea, Anthony Kiedis, Chad Smith, and John Frusciante, and there's a lot of merit in that, but Dave Navarro brought something to this album that John Frusciante could not, and that's competent playing. When John plays, it's an exploration of the instrument, he's riding it and seeing where it goes. Dave Navarro has a more disciplined style, so instead of riding, he drives his guitar exactly where he wants it to go. The music in this album is more precise, more calculated, and just as good as any other Pepper's album, if not a bit better be being a breath of fresh air. There's less freaking out and more rocking out, if that makes sense. In summary, and diehard fans should really relax and just go with the flow. If you take anything from the music, then that's it. | 34 stars
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Nick Who? Queens Still Rule.
Whoever was concerned what a post-Oliveri "QOTSA" would sound like need fear no more: the future is here and it's solid. There is a deceptive "easy" quality to the work, but trust me it is deceptive. Repeated listenings of "Lullabies" reveal a growing "adult" quality to the Queens work, but the intensity that attracted so many fans is still at work here and Homme and Company give everything they have to the project with the ensuing result being: one of the best rock albums to come out this year. (Granted, the year is still young, but my comment about "Lullabies" will be just as valid come December.)Even more, unlike other "QOTSA" that held (in my humble opinion) a few misses as well as hits, there isn't a single bad moment on "Lullabies."Although everyone is saying this isn't a concept album, "Lullabies to Paralyze" has a strong feeling all the way through it that make it nearly impossible not to want to listen to the entire thing. Over and over. A+ Effort! | 45 stars
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The Williams Brothers: Andy & David
Anyone who longs for happy 20th century memories and appreciates perfectly blended harmony will love this CD, which couldn't have been released at a better time, so thanks to all who made it possible, especially Andy and David. If you first met them in Tiger Beat, if you were moved by "Can't Cry Hard Enough" or if you were completely amazed by Harmony Hotel (I want to be buried with that CD!) you won't want to miss this unreleased material. Harmony Hotel fans will notice that none of these songs were written by Andy or David, however, thier versions of classics such as "It Hurts To Be In Love" and "Cathy's Clown" are most impressive. Partridge Family Fans will recall the episode where Andy and David both fell in love with Laurie, and the song they performed "Say It Again" is on this CD. A sensitive lyric "Every Other Sunday" explores the break up of a family from the perspective of a teenage boy, "Secretly" radiates pain and yearning for a romance that cannot yet be revealed, all delivered with the expert blend of vocals that we loved when we first met Andy & David almost thirty years ago. And Andy, please don't wait until you are 66 to put out some more music (as is written in the liner notes)! Music, especially that of which these men are capable of creating is a powerful healing tool which is so needed in this day and age. Buy this CD and be reunited with not only a happier time period, but two beloved old friends! | 45 stars
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Great CD
This is a great cd. If you aren't a really big blink 182 fan, then you probably won't like this cd. But if you are you will love it! | 45 stars
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Too much compression on the remaster!
Dirty Deeds, Problem Child and Ride On are all great songs but I would try to purchase the original, uncrushed version of the CD. A lot of the rhythm and feel of the songs was lost as the remastering used way too much compression.It's a great album but the sound isn't quite right. I would look for a different version of the album than this one -- Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap (Dlx) [Original Recording Reissued, Original Recording Remastered] | 23 stars
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Perfect after 2 am
I really like this album though like some other listeners it took a while to grow on me. It's perfect late night- I had to listen to it before crashing for the night on several camping trips this summer. Basically I like all the tracks, especially "Mr Disappointment" "Differently" "Goin Home" "Dont say you love me" "She's a healer" and the title track, which is haunting. Overall laid back but very worthwhile. | 34 stars
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Haunting and Facinating
Do modern songs work well with gregorian sound? oh yeah. Most haunting of the songs for me is Tears in Heaven. The melody and delivery stayed with me, and I found I wanted to hear the song again and again. I wanted more, so I found their Chapter II CD. It is even more enticing. The track Hymn is perfectly wonderful. I'm not much on religion, but this peaceful blend with just the right mix of music was peaceful and inspiring. | 45 stars
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Emotional and Exciting
I'm not one to be terribly enthusiastic about a lot of punk music, but this CD has a somewhat harder feel, and is filled with great music. My boyfriend gave it to me as a gift and I had never heard of them before, and I was quite skeptical. I was blown away with tracks like 'I'm not Okay.' I usually judge CD's on not so much the number of good songs, but lack of bad songs that you would otherwise skip over. This Album has no skip over songs at all! | 45 stars
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Sebastian swansong not quite up to par of previous album
Everything's Playing is really the last gasp for the band (they would continue on without John Sebastian for one last, final album). Zal was gone (replaced by the talented Jerry Yester)and the impish humor that was one of the band's hallmarks went with him. Sebastian knew even at this stage that he wanted to move on to a solo career. There's a fine handful of solid classics surrounded by filler. That wouldn't be a problem but Sebastian and his bandmates had demonstrated that they were capable of so much more.Six O'Clock would have fit in on just about any classic Spoonful album. It certainly captured the zest that powered their trio of great albums. Strings played a larger part here than on previous albums. Sebastian took advantage of Yester's talent as a string arranger and producer to broaden the band's sound. While Everything was a noble attempt to expand their horizons, the analogy that best describes this album is the flesh was weak but the spirit was willing.As usual the mastering and liner notes are top-notch but I'd still recommend staying with their core of strong albums Daydream, Do You Believe in Magic and Hums. | 23 stars
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Excellent.
I'm in love. This album is wonderful. I love all the new tracks.Rest in peace, babygirl. <3 | 45 stars
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Limp Bizkit: Poseurs of the Century
Significant Other is a boring dose of cliche MTV rap-metal. This one sounds even more commercial and radio-friendly (is that possible?) than Limp Bizkits debut. I would say these guys sold out, but they never had an ounce of musical integrity to begin with. Wes Borland still quite hasn't found out how to operate the basic mechanics of the guitar, with the most repetitive and simple riffs I have ever heard. And of course wigger Fred Durst yells the typical inane lyrics that make surburban white kids drool. Overall a pitiful excuse for an album (does make for a nice coaster though). If you are a true independent-thinker you will not let MTV dictate what you listen to and reject all the weak trends the corporate suits of the industry spew. Don't allow yourself to be just another sheep in the herd, skip pass this album and search for music you like. In a few years Limp Bizkit will be laughed at just like Vanilla Ice and Milli Vanilli are now. | 01 star
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All Blues rules, Miles Is Mighty.
I have not listened to Jazz in years, so this review is a balance of past memories & the recent listening to this fine compilation. The great thing about Jazz is the balance between creativity & structure. When the musicians {Paul Chambers, Miles Davis, Bill Evans, John Coltrane, Julian Adderley, & Jimmy Cobb} are in cync, good things occur. My father use to tell me the language of Jazz music can be felt on a deep intuitive level. The five tunes here proved him right. They are "So What, Freddie Freeloader, Blue In Green, All Blues, & Flamenco Sketches." Surprisingly, all the cuts on this Cd are first takes. Bill Evans on Piano provides the formal details, or character. The total mood of this Cd is of a very mellow daydream of pleasant contemplation. Buy this even if you have never heard any Jazz, you won't be disappointed. | 45 stars
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A good collection that misses too much
This is a nice collection, but be warned that CD2 is mostly rare tracks and B-sides that might only be of serious interest to Fishbone afficianados.CD1 is a mash up of most of their early work and hits.So, here's the rub... You miss some of the best songs off "Truth and Soul", a great album, as well as "The Reality of My Surroundings". Both albums are worth owning in their entirety. This compilation is like reading chapters of great novels.For the cost of this CD, you could score both CD's used, and have enough left over to maybe even squeeze in Chim-Chim's Revenge.I think Bruce McCullough said it best: "Best of albums are for housewives and middle schoolers". The used CD's are cheap, and you get the offbeat tracks as a bonus.Fossil Fuelin' is a great addition for the Dedicated Fishheads, but as "collection" in one Jewel Case fails miserably. Which is great, because you can just go get the real albums. | 34 stars
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Music that defines life...
Well, I just listened to "Safe Journey" probably the 10,000th time since being lucky enough to buy it new in '84. To date, it remains my favorite recording within my brief stint on planet earth. I strongly recommend finding a plot of sand/snow covered earth without any human residue and walk/stand/run for 1 hour while this recording does its' thing - the sound and colors of the music will put you damned-near in a state of drooling (and the endorphines will remind you that you still have a brain). - Absolutely stunning work.Ian Naismith | 45 stars
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Went to bed too late got up too soon..
A MUST HAVE for any ' 80's rock/pop metal fan. A classic, simple rock and roll songs,talking about sex, girls, partying, good times, love, and not giving up your dreams. It's not Poison's best album ( i'd say Flesh and Blood ), but it's my favourite. The guitar riff that begins ' talk dirty to me ' is a classic, unmistakeable to any rock and roll fan. However, some of the albums best songs were never hits, like the title track, which they open every live performance with, ' #1 Bad Boy', a rocker that will put an extra swagger in your step, ' Want Some Need Some' a fist pumpin' anthem about gettin' some, and ' Blame it on You', a short little firecracker of a tune with a nice, snarly guitar solo by C.C. This album is so much a part of my youth, I'll always love it not just for all those songs I love, but the time it came out and the memories it helped to make. If you don't have this album yet, get it now. Put it in your car stereo and blast it, besides being a great party album, it's a great driving album. Poison continues to write great songs and play to packed houses, so check out what started it all, ' Look What the Cat Dragged In '. | 45 stars
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Pure delight
What a treasure this man is! And what a voice! Ever so sweet on the slower numbers, yet equally vibrant on the up-tempo pieces, especially "Que Bueno Baila Usted," which inspired me to search out the original from Beny More. I recently spent two weeks in Cuba, and this album takes me right back there. It's a treat from start to finish! | 45 stars
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i've loved this album since i was a little girl
I love this album. As a 7 year old I knew every word on the album. I just wish I could have it on cd so I could play it in my car and put it on my ipod. This is a wonderful selection of the best pop songs from that era sung by a wonderful selection of icons -- Rosemary Clooney (ain't nothing so funny as seeing a 7 year old girl from Indiana singing Come On'a My House!), Tony Benett, Cab Calloway (or Jumpin' Jive for that matter), Jo Stafford, Patty Paige... super yummy musical memories. | 45 stars
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Oldie but Goodie
This band is one of the most talented of this era. All their songs are rockin'. They are under-appreciated, that's for sure. | 45 stars
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Great Price
I love Janis Joplin's scratchy voice. This set is a great price, and you get all of Janis' music. The sound of the cds are great. I highly recommend. | 45 stars
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shake 'n chill
Son House is my favourite of the Missippi Delta Blues Singers, largely because of this recording. Mr. Eddie James House, Jr., (1902? Riverton, Mississipi - 1988 Detroit, Michigan) has a low gravelly voice which is full of pathos. He sings convincingly of life's hard times. I feel an eery connection as his songs awaken feelings of lost love and the frustration of hopeless poverty. And I have never even been to Mississippi ;D. To say that Mr House "did not play a guitar as much as assault it" is an unfair oversimplification of his rustic style. On this CD, he exhibits two different approaches. When playing with an ensemble (Levee Camp Blues, Government Fleet Blues, Walking Blues and Shetland Pony Blues, for example) he establishes the rhythm. He plays barred chords supporting Mr. Joe Martin on mandoline and Mr. Leroy Williams on harmonica. It would be silly and uncharacteristic of a Delta Blues format to expect a mandolin or harmonica to take on this reponsibility. On the songs which feature Mr House alone, he displays a great deal of melodic expertise. Low Down Dirty Dog Blues is a fine example. He maintains a standard Blues bass with turn around while augmenting his singing with fills played on the higher strings. But the strongest feature is his singing which is stunning, and his poignant lyrics. My favourite line is "if I don't go crazy, I believe I'll lose my mind." If you are interested in the Folk Blues of the Mississippi Delta, this is an important recording for you. | 45 stars
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JOJO IS "EXCEPTIONAL!!!"
I loved Jojo's cd so much! It is amazing! You will be addicted to this cd if you have a good taste in music! BUY! It's worth more than what it costs, believe me.This Time- 5 starsThe Way You Do Me- 4 starsToo Little Too Late- 5 starsThe High Road- 5 starsAnything- 4 starsLike That- 4 starsGood Ol'- 4 starsComing For You- 5 starsLet It Rain- 5 starsExceptional- 5 starsHow To Touch A Girl- 4 starsNote To God- 5 starsMy personal favorites woulod have to be (not in order) are Too Little Too Late, The High Road, Coming For You, and Note To God. All of them are beautiful songs. Jojo is one of the most wonderful singers ever! | 45 stars
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love this album
lyrics are thoughtful, moving, sad, but tinted with hope. music is tantalizing and unique. boy in static sounds like a hybrid between radiohead and snow patrol. melodic yet dissonant. every song sounds like a harmonic contradiction. this is definitely a new sound and worth every penny. | 45 stars
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At long last, the box!
Ever since I first heard that this box set was on the way, I have continually scanned the record store bins and the Atlantic and Elektra websites for information, feeling mild disappointment and resignation that nothing had yet appeared. So when the E-mail from Amazon.com came to let me know that "Box Set's" release was imminent, naturally I was excited and relieved.And happy to see that I am not, for the most part, disappointed with the box's content. I said for the most part: I agree with the other reviewers that the "week-long" psychedelic freakout version of "Bluebird" and the Neil Young vocal on "Down to the Wire" are glaring omissions. We can always hope, of course, for a rarities disc that may correct these errors, and that will be a legitimate release rather than a bootleg. If anyone from Rhino Records sees my review, please heed my request! The only other places these tracks can be found is, in the case of the latter track, on "Decade," which could do with a remix and remastering job itself, and in the case of the former, I had to search on Napster to find the track...and we all know what's happened to Napster in recent days. (And yes, I am aware of the presence of Audiogalaxy Satellite, Aimster, Gnutella and the rest...but I digress.)The demos are real treats on this box. It's interesting to see which songs never made it past the drawing board (the very earliest demos like "Hello, I've Returned" and "There Goes My Babe," and later tunes like "Words I Must Say" and "So You've Got a Lover," any of which could easily be plundered by an itinerant acoustic performer seeking rare songs to introduce to the public, much as Dylan's catalogue was plundered); also to see how other songs developed through stages ("Down Down Down," of course, began life as the melodic base that evolved into "Broken Arrow," including some of the lyrical content, and was later reworked into a song suite that appeared on the first CSN&Y LP, "Deja Vu"; "The Rent is Always Due" was the work in progress that finally became "I Am a Child"), and others that, though fully fleshed out, didn't quite pass the audition ("Neighbor Don't You Worry" and "We'll See," both good tracks featured as demos and final mixes that were finally excluded from the official LP masters of the first album and "Again").And of course, it's eye-opening to hear the original versions of songs that appeared later in their writers' careers: Furay's "My Kind of Love," "Nobody's Fool" and "What a Day," all of which appeared on the first Poco album...and I actually like these originals, prefer them to the later versions. Young's "Old Laughing Lady," which appeared on his first solo LP, is much shorter here (as demos will be). Also notable is the fact that the vast majority of the tracks on the first three discs are mono mixes. They actually sound closer to what the band originally intended.Finally, I noted the programming of the first LP on the fourth disc; this is actually the April 1967 reissue, with "For What It's Worth" tacked on as the opening track, replacing "Baby Don't Scold Me" from the December 1966 release (although this latter track is included as a bonus track). "Leave" originally appeared as track 3, side 1 of the 12/66 release; on the 4/67 reissue, it's track 4, side 2. And it's good to have both albums mixed at a level that sounds good. (I had copied the 12/66 album from Elektra's '97 reissue CD featuring both versions of the first LP, and the original CD release of "Again," to a MiniDisc, and noted the difference in sound level.)This is quite likely the best box set that's been released in years. Highly recommended. | 45 stars
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Highly commercial
After i heard that headly had left the band i thought i wasn't going to see this band again. so to see that the band was up and working was great to see. but not much can be said about the work. fieldy's role which i think is very vital for the band and the genre they play has been greatly reduced here. its more hard rock than proper nu-metal. the guitar works are not as intricate as they used to be. well i guess every band needs to change... metallica for eg. did and paid heavily. i think its cool to define your music but it should be something you really wanted to do not just for money.to me twisted trans. sounds like their radio hit word up.. coming undone another radio friendly track. actually its filled with stuff that is aimed at the mass. its actually a good try if you don't like nu-metal. otherwise you can get this album listen to it and bury it.neverthless this album is probably the best releases of 2005 (next to audioslave's out of exile). its definetly not one of those albums which is seriously bad. its pretty cool. but it ain't no evolution of heavyness as it claims.Verdict: A fun album when driving. | 23 stars
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Brilliantly continuing the signature genre combo of Isley Jasper Isley
Chris Jasper made this album in 1987 around the same time that Isley Jasper Isley started going down the tubes. The signature style of IJI was soulful sensibility combined with scorching electric guitars. Fortunately, the breakup of that group did not stop Chris Jasper from continuing to use their unique style for his solo albums. His more soulful side is best exemplified on the track "One Time Love" and he lets the guitars rip on "My Soul Train." | 45 stars
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The amazing thing about this CD is...
...that the quality of songs left OFF his previous albums was this good. It's almost like there have been two Bruces out there all this time, the Bruce we all came to love and one who has remained in hiding. I feel like Bruce just re-released his existing albums, only with NEW songs. Truly one of the greatest CD's ever made. | 45 stars
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Hullaballoos - 3 Decades Later
I was l7 when my friend Margaret and I first discoved the music of the Hullaballoos. We are now 54 years old. We went to see then live in the New York Paramount Theatre and in the Brooklyn Fox. We bought there albums and ever visited the year later in England (Harry Dunn and Andy Woonton). There music was happy, upbeat, fun and good. I am happy to be able to get their music on CD. It is a fresh today as it was in the 60's. If people were to listen they would love them as I did and enjoy them as I always will. 5 stars and better for the Hullaballoos. Joan | 45 stars
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A solid debut...
I first heard and listened to SS with their second album Pitch Black Progress (which rocks). I like their newer stuff so much that I bought this one. It is a solid debut, but unless you love their second album, you probably won't like this one a whole lot. The vocals are a little too unpolished for me (both the clean and growls). Musically, this album does showcase the enormous progressive metal potential they have. All in all I think they are a great band to support, and look forward to their 3rd album. | 34 stars
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good messages
yeah so what if i like a now disney rock band?! These songs rock and have good messages and its nice because they dont slap you in the face or become preachy, the lyrics are subtle which means more accessibilty. They have a pop rock kind of sound that occasionaly gets an epic sound with longer drawn out notes in some choruses. I must say that getting closer pumps me, its what we all want to be doing right? Getting closer to the truth and ultimate goodness! | 45 stars
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Jack's Mannequin: Can any criticism be offered?
Everything in Transit is perhaps one of my favorite CD's at the moment. Every song is catchy, with amazing lyrics, and the pianowork is absolutely fantastic as well. Andrew McMahon's voice is wonderful on this CD, as it always is. The only dilemma that i have faced is deciding on which song is my favorite.For anyone reading this review, if you have heard Something Corporate (whom i also quite adore,) you will most definitely enjoy Jack's Mannequin. (because Andrew is also in SoCo) | 45 stars
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More of A HYPE MAN than a RAPPER!!!
50 is cocky, Banks is quiet, Buck is wild and Yayo is hype.If you dont believe me listen to the mixtapes.Yayo could've and should've done better.His mixtape 1-800 HOMICIDE was 5 times better than this.I think he is better off freestyling over other artist beats.There are about 3 cuts worth listening to, Drama Setter, We Dont give a (...) and I know you dont love me. | 12 stars
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Some of their greatest techno-rock
When Manfred Mann went from top 10 pop to hard rock they did well. Few people know that. This is one of the classics with Mick Andrews and Manfred making the guitar and synthesiser work together in a way no one else could, or has since then. I think they were way ahead of their time. Highly recommended. | 45 stars
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WHEN I REMEMBER...
THAT WAS A TIME...PHARAO-WHERE ARE U NOW???? | 45 stars
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Hot Shot City - A Critique
In so many opinions on this site, the song "Hot Shot City" has been raised to such a level that some critics have likened it to the feeling a badger would have if it was tied to a brick and gently pressed against an angle grinder. It has also been heralded as a contributing factor to the light God created on the first day. I decided to go through the song in stages to perhaps explain its aura. No easy task.When the sun goes down on a Saturday nightYou will find her on the streetIn her red Ferrari with her top pulled downYou can feel, you can feel the heatRight, so we've established that on Saturday evenings, this lady likes to sit in her Ferrari. Which is red. Like most Ferraris. Either it's a convertible, or her shirt is riding up her belly a little, which is quite possible due to the low seating position in Ferraris. Especially red ones. Anyway, her top is pulled down. In the opening three lines, Hasslebank has already conjured up such a vivid image of a woman fidgeting in her seat that he is confident that he can bring the listener into the scene and convince us that we can "feel the heat". With the sun being down, presumably this warmth is coming from the car's heater.Got her motor runnin' and the wind in her hairShe ain't got nothing to loseAnd her skin tight jeansHe'll be the wreck of a manShe will give, she will give you the bluesShe will give, she will give you the bluesSo the Ferrari is either idling and it's windy, or we're travelling with the vixen. It's here that Hufftysusannahhoffs decides to relay two important pieces of information about our driver. One, she has nothing to lose - she's driving this road like she just doesn't care what anybody's going to think about her for doing so. Two, her jeans are tight, which maybe contributing to the heat she's feeling. A third character is also introduced here. In addition to the woman and ourselves, the listener, there is also the mention of a mysterious man who is already unstable and on the way to becoming a wreck. The reason for this is due to our protagonist, gifted with the ability to give one the "blues".Cool it down now cool it down11 o'clock we're ready to rock11 o'clock yeah we ready to rockHeat is reducing. And it's eleven o'clock. We're not privy to the relationship between these two snippets of information or if there is a connection. However, from the heat felt earlier and her tight jeans, it's probably best that the temperature is now on a downward trend.Hot shot city on a Saturday nightWe're gonna party down until the morning lightLate licenses are abundant in Hot Shot City, guaranteeing a party that will go well into Sunday morningHot shot city on a Saturday nightWe're hotter than rock'n' rollShe's burning baby in my soulCheck it out, check it outThe brief respite in the temperature is over as quickly as it began and now, not only is it hot, but it's sufficiently hot that we're given a comparison so we can fully appreciate it. Rock N Roll is chilly in comparison to us. Our driver for the evening is cited as the main cause of this upturn and we're advised to get this heartburn checked out, perhaps by a doctor.Let your hair down babyWe've been rocking all nightNow the sun's coming over the hillWe like to sleep all day, like to party all nightThe hair that was once blowing in the wind has apparently been tied up as we're advising her to let it down. It's Sunday morning, approaching sunrise and we need our kip so we can party again. The triumphant rhyme that takes us from "night" all the way back to "night" is sublime.Our love is like red hot steelOur love is like red hot steelCool it down now cool it down11 o'clock we're ready to rock11 o'clock yeah we ready to rockSleep over, our love is now molten and a prime component in the manufacturing sector. The urge here is to cool it down so it can set and become solid again. But there's barely time as it's 11 o'clock again and we're off out on a school night. The lament of the wreck of a man from the first verse is doomed to never be resolved. Or mentioned again.Hot shot city on a Saturday nightWe're gonna party down until the morning lightHot shot city on a Saturday nightWe're hotter than rock'n' rollShe's burning baby in my soulCheck it out, check it outIsn't it Sunday night now?Summary: In Billy Connolly's World Tour of Australia, Billy met an artist who could paint like a child. Initially, this wasn't too impressive but then he explained how difficult it is for an adult to paint like a child and make it look honest, and he's right. At 29, you'll never be able to paint something that looks like a 2 year old painted it because you'd be trying too hard. The artist, it was agreed, was a genius.In Hot Shot City, Heffelumpenwhistle has been able to write a song as though English isn't his first language. There's nothing much of a story or a point, there are glaring inaccuracies and contradictions, it reads as though it's incomplete and the rhyming structure is simplified to a stagewhere you can guess the next line before you get to it. In short, Snuffleupegus is also a genius.Believe the hype that surrounds this song. It is particularly good. Perhaps the most particularly good song ever penned. | 45 stars
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Stare into the void.
while sitting under a tree in a thunder storm, one knows what will happen if he stays there too long. while listening to this record i feel the thunder of the storm coming but i do nothing to avoid it. take this cd put it in and play it at maximum volume. while this cd is great it fails in comparison to the live experience of the thrones. i was lucky enough to see "them" live while a silent scared crowd watched in a combination of awe and fright. create that reaction with this cd. after buying it play it as offensivly loud as you can and watch your neighbors reactions. | 34 stars
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Don't waste your time
I can't believe I blew seventeen bucks on this CD. Tyner's work on Coltrane's albums was lovely, but this is a self-indulgent, mindless hammer job on some beautiful songs which deserved better. I can't help but think that Tyner was unstrung by his grief when he recorded this. A bummer. | 12 stars
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At the top of the Trance game.
This album has grown on me significantly since I bought it in 2003. Initially, I was startled by the lengths of the tracks, heading deep into the six minute mark. Hey, I was used to Gatecrasher's practice of using three minute radio edits, so get off my back for a minute...The more I listen to this album, the more I am touched by the sheer beauty and tranquility of disc 1, the emotional melodics of disc 2 and the paranoid menace of disc 3. Each disc is distinct from the others, so what you are really buying here are three distinct albums. At times, the incessant pounding of disc three can get a tad monotonous, but that is easily forgiven by the overall quality of the music on the other two discs.I contemplated buying this album, my first Gods Kitchen album, for a couple of weeks before I actually went through with it, and I have never regretted it.Buy this instead of Summer Trance, which is nowhere near as good. | 34 stars
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The Wilkinsons are awesome
The Wilkinsons CD, Nothing But Love, is a great CD. This is country music at its best. Highlights of the CD for me are "The Word" which brother Tyler takes over lead vocals, "Boy Oh Boy" where Amanda does a great job at singing about the theme for the CD, love, and ofcourse the hit, "26 cents". This Cd is a mix of country ballads and terrific vocals. If The Wilkinsons keep making music like this, they're gonna be around for a long time. | 45 stars
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BEST ONKELZ ALBUM
The Onkelz have to fight against much prejudices and most of them are wrong.The reviewer from Chino wrote:"this group has very extreme beliefs and may offend catholics and / or people of faith." That is completely WRONG !!!At their beginning, they were a punk band, later they turned to skinheads (for example "B?se Menschen, B?se Lieder"). It is right, the they wrote right songs, so their first album "Der nette Mann" ("The nice man")is forbidden in Germany. But they changed into a non-politic bandSince many years they are fighting against right forces and Nazis.People lie if the say the B?hse Onkelz are Nazis or they have prejudices against anybody !!!Last year, they played together with the Rolling Stones in Hannover !!"Live in Dortmund" is the best Onkelz Album ever. It contains the best Onkelz songs in very good quality. You won't find bad songs. | 45 stars
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powerfully angelic music
The British have always taken the lead in excellence when it comes to boychoir singing of traditional and processional hymns. I have heard many recordings, but somehow this one stands above them all. The purity of the voices is astonishing, the perfect pitch, the intensity, the energy released---these songs are not sung by slack souls! Their discipline in diction and tone testifies to the genius of Dr. Robert Marlow, the composer and choirmaste featured. His creative descants are no less than divinely inspired. Listen and see if you do not hear angels singing with them! God can be known through this truly holy music. And this recording certainly does stand in a class all by itself. END | 45 stars
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BRIT AT HER BEST!!
THIS SINGLE IS AWESOME I MEAN THIS GIRL ROCKS OUR WORLD.Britney is the best singer and dancer of all times.Be sure check it out before is to late.You will have a lot of fun listening it. | 45 stars
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Exciting Bel Canto
This was Maria Callas' final season in Mexico City at the Teatro Bellas Artes. She was revered in Mexico and was bestowed the honor of 'prima donna assoluta' displayed on the marquis of the theatre. Her voice was basically thick during this juncture. It took effort to lighten the tone for leggiero roles. The basic tone is not that sweet as a true coloratura, i.e.: Lina Pagliughi or Toti Dal Monte, but she copes well with the pyrotechnics. Her rendition of 'vieni al tempio' at the end of Act One elicits a thunderous ovation, mainly for the immense three high C's and high D. These notes on her commercial recording from March, 1953 are not as imposing. The 'vien diletto' in Act Two is not as successful as her rendition of the Cetra recording from 1949 or the complete recording from 1953. The glissandi's are not smooth and the high E flat is released quickly. However uneven the performance, her singing in the final act is superb. Giusepe Di Stefano sounds more comfortable in this performance than in the 1953 commercial recording. He manages the high notes with more ease. Piero Campolonghi and Roberto De SIlva are not memorable. Guido Picco's conducting is all right but does not have the refinement of Tullio Serafin's in the commercial recording. The transfer on this IDIS version is superior to former CD releases. | 23 stars
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No Bass
This is simply the worse Metallica album ever. Contrary to what someone else wrote the bass is down for the WHOLE record. Why? Just to mess with Jason Newsted. As a bassist/guitarist, this album is weak, weak, weak. For a band to have such a great bassist in Cliff, then to get a great bassist as Jason Newsted......Turning him down in the mix.......it's just a shame. To this day I CAN'T listen to this record. | 01 star
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Truly Justified
On a serious note, this is the beginning of Justin becoming a huge star, don't laugh, this is serious stuff. The only reason people make fun of him for this album is because they think of him still as 1/5 of mega pop group *NSYNC or they just simply haven't heard the WHOLE album, instead of the three singles that everyone has heard. This is an excellent album, on the serious tip.With producers like Timbaland and the Neptunes who could go wrong? Simply not Justin. The whole album is a pleaser from start to finish, let's begin...1. Senorita- a very funky, soul tinged song with horns blaring in the back, nicely sung (10/10)2. Like I Love You- Okay I admit the first time I heard this I thought, Justin..c'mon you sound like Micheal Jackson! Stop please! But it grew on me and still has a funky, raw edge to it (8/10)3. (Oh, no) What You Got For Me- Probably the tightest beat on this whole album thanks to Timbaland, has the coolest vibe. Love it! (10/10)4. Take It From Here- A very sweet ballad, with lush vocals, feels like your floating on a cloud (10/10)5. Cry Me A River- Now who doesn't like this song? Seriously, non-Justin fans were converted with this song. It's churchy, chanting, sharp beat, raw lyrics..need I say more? (9/10)6. Rock Your Body- The title says it all, it rocks your body. I know sounds a bit like MJ but c'mon, Justin does a great job on this. (9/10)7. Nothin' Else- A very eerie song but has a laid-back groove to it. Reminds me weirdly of Stevie Wonder, something he would've done back in the day. (7/10)8. Last Night- The lyrics practically scream about a certain someone...(little miss Brit). Has an enticing beat that drives home. Gotta love this one. (8/10)9. Still On My Brain- a nice ballad. Sounds very old school, with a twist. (7/10)10. (She Said) Take Me Now- With Janet on backing vocals and Timbaland providing the beat, how could you go wrong? Another set of tight beats rings through this song. (10/10)11. Right For Me- Can you say raunchy and dirty? Justin sure has grown from singing "I Want You Back" to this. You will never get this song out of your head I promise! (7/10)12. Let's Take A Ride- Makes ya want to take a ride with the top down. A very relaxing song and the most *NSYNC sounding song on the album, though it's a notch above the others. (9/10)13. Never Again- Brian McKnight always knows how to put a ballad but with the help of Justin's lyrics, this song touches the heart. Hits a big homer, I swear. We all know who this song is about...(8/10)And that concludes a soon-to-be classic album. I ain't joking. This was a good album, one I think everyone should own whether they like Justin or not. I just saw Justin in concert and I was blown away by his performance, he is going to be one of those performers that's going to be around for awhile. Whether anyone likes it or not. | 45 stars
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...
Before you skip this review because I'm from Vermont, hear me out. I am the biggest BBoys fan in the world I think, but this CD wore out too fast. Every track is really good, but something seems missing. Where are the cuts, samples, and scratches that I love so much? Well they're gone boss hog, this is a live album. Although the Root Down remixes are cool, they just don't have the bass-y base line that the original contained. The live songs are really cool, and are definately worth a look, but they just seem rushed. This "album" was created so fans wouldn't lose interest in the Beastie Boys in the time between Ill Communication and Hello Nasty. It was originally supposed to be a single, but it was just doctored up. I am being overly critical though, like all BBoys music, I just can't put this down. It's a good trip, but I've heard it all before. | 23 stars
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A very nice collection of peaceful acoustic compositions
I am not a Genesis fanatic, but I know most of their music. I am not an Anthony Phillips fanatic, but I have/had several of his albums - this one made it to CD for me. It's as peaceful and relaxing as anything anyone from the school of Genesis ever put out. "Acoustic" and "pastoral" are two words that come to mind when describing the album. The original final track (there's an extra track on the CD) entitled "Sleepfall: The Geese Fly West" is a gorgeous instrumental I've been humming in my head for over 20 years now. | 34 stars
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Best Sheryl Crow Album
I'm in love with Sheryl Crow... not in a creepy stalker way but in that there is no substitute for her music. This is my favorite of her albums. If I had a nickel for every time I played this album I'd have several thousand dollars and I'm still tried of it yet. I have bought so many copies of this album due to theft, breakage, etc. but I'd still by another copy today if it happened again. You can't go wrong with this one. | 45 stars
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Music is Good
Along with the other composer BE videos I am not impressed with the video portion and not at all because of the content. I just found that the video does not coincide very well with the music being played so at times the timing seems really off and as a result my child didn't seem too interested in this video but the music kept him intrigued so I believe I'll just pick up one of the C.D.s with the music and no video. | 23 stars
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Beautiful from start to finish
I use to be your typical close-minded metalhead. I refused to listen to anything weaker than Metallica or Pantera. I eventually got burnt out on death metal and metal in general. So I decided to start experimenting with other types of music and started becoming more open-minded.This record opened me up to new worlds both in music listening experience and instrument playing. Though the production sounds dated the concepts and music are timeless. It should be noted that the individual has to be ready for something like this. A lot younger people don't want to kick back, smoke out or have a drink, relax and let go. They want to headbang, mosh and rock out. Which is understandable. You're only young once. But when you get tired of powerchords and beating the crap out of each other then maybe give this a listen.Some may say this record is about death, which it can be. But I like to think it's about the cycle of life. 'In the end it's round and round." It starts with a heart beat and ends with a heart beat/new life.The sound quality of the newer 30th anniversary edition is superb and much better than the previous editions. Definitely worth getting.Thank you Pink Floyd for your beautiful music. I'm glad I was able to hear, experience and enjoy this record during my life time. | 45 stars
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Very easy to understand.
I am very pleased with this video. My son is 3 years old and he loves watching it. He already is singing along and saying phrases from it. He knew a little spanish before watching the movie so I think that helped him a little too. The movie is a little slow but very easy to understand. I especially like how it says the word in english then in spanish and shows you how the word is spelled in spanish...very helpful. | 34 stars
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Geri Halliwell has a very unique style on this album
I loved the Spice Girls, but Geri was always my favorite, so needless to say I couldn't wait for her solo album to come out. I bought it the first day it came out because I put it on hold. Although, the other Spice Girls are coming out with their own solo albums, none of their's will compare to Geri's. She is too inventive and self confident. GIRL POWER! | 45 stars
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yes yes yes
I know it's a year old now, but I just HAD to come back here and scream YES! YES! YES! [that was an orgasm] - shame on you if you still don't own this! | 45 stars
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A Beautiful Love Story
Vivian Green's "A Love Story" is an amazing album with a great combination of R&B;, soul, and jazz music with songs you can listen to non-stop without pressing the stop button.The album starts out with the soulful "Wishful Thinking" that really showcases Vivian's strong, soulful vocals. The jazzy songs on the album would have to be "What is Love?," "Final Hour," and "No Sitting By the Phone" which make Vivian like a jazz singer from the early to mid 60's. Those three songs definitely sound like they come from that era.Vivian's breakout hit, "Emotional Rollercoaster" really takes the cake with a nice combination of R&B; and soul, along with Vivian's sultry, soulful vocals. "24 Hour Blue (Just One of Those Days)" and "Fanatic" have a great combination of R&B; with a touch of jazz. "Music" is one of my favorite songs from this album because the melody and feeling of the music is so relaxing, you can listen to it all day long."A Love Story" is definitely a great R&B; album and Vivian Green is a wonderful, talented singer. With a mixbag of R&B;, soul, and jazz music, this is a great album for music lovers. | 45 stars
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Not exactly a best of but still very good
Ok, I love FLC, so I may be bias on my review. Anyway, I was expecting kind of a best of, but this cd is filled with strange stuff as well. well known hits in here, like Korean Bodega or 10th Street, but also some less known wonders like Half a Block, Up on the hill and an amazing version of Scooby Snacks in true Mafioso style (very cool indeed for FLC fans). So you won't find songs like King of New York (one of my favs), Loco, Big Night Out and such... Still it's a very good buy for fans. | 34 stars
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An excellent album, it should be in every house hold.
Let me tell you this, you know that you have an album worth listening to when every where you look it's being played.The lyerics are exceptionly well written and the instruments don't drownd them out.This is an album for any fan of Metallica. | 34 stars
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Get a crowd over and prepare to laugh
You have to see it to believe, its campy, silly, fun and fall off the chair hilarious... get the crowd over !! | 45 stars
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Early "period sensitive" performance nails it with great soloists
I've owned this LP since it came out. I have also sung the Messiah over many years and listened to directors telling me how particular choruses should go and this performance pretty much has everything right -- period "sensitivity" if not outright slavish adoption of period instrumentation (why do you think instrument makers changed them -- to improve their pitch stability and projection, mostly) and including a few of the alternate takes (the triple-time "Rejoice Greatly" e.g.) it remains a very satisfying performance. More current versions err on the side of diminished forces, while perhaps accurate, lose some of the energy. | 45 stars
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Howls of Derisive laughter
In the leaflet accompanying the CD he mentions how he was "inspired" by the improvisational parts of "Light My Fire" by the "great band" The Doors.Enough said.Convulsing with laughter as I slowly and carefully returned the CD to the rack...(had to make sure I wasn't contaminated by it...)...I just had to tell you folks...If you think California Merlot is "good" wine, if you eat your salad first, if you think Meryl Streep is a good actress, if you think Ansel Adams is a great photographer, if you think James Cameron is a good director, if you read Stephen King or James Patterson novels, well then this is the CD for you!Hah hah hah hah hah hah hah hah hah hah hah hah hah hah hah hah hah hah hah hah hah hah hah.... hah hah...hah hah hah hah hah hah hah hah hah hah hah hah hah hah hah hah hah hah hah hah....Oh please stop, ye'r killin' me!....Hah hah hah hah hah hah hah hah hah hah hah hah hah hah hah hah hah hah hah hah hah hah hah.... hah hah...hah hah hah hah hah hah hah hah hah hah hah hah hah hah hah hah hah hah hah hah....This is to music what sushi is to tires...Hah hah hah hah hah hah hah hah hah hah hah hah hah hah hah hah hah hah hah hah hah hah hah.... hah hah...hah hah hah hah hah hah hah hah hah hah hah hah hah hah hah hah hah hah hah hah....Mr Winston is to be complimented for providing such an inviting target. Work as delightfully inept as this is so wonderful to find. He is utterly unaware of any European music, it seems. He needs to listen to the work of the keyboard player and composer Vittorio Nocenzi (founder of the Italian progressive rock band Banco del Mutuo Soccorso). Then he would understand that he should never, ever, touch a piano again, and most especially, never write another word about music.Visiting his website, I notice he has a section on "influences" containing a selection of recommended recordings. Not one European artist appears in this "selection". He appears to be just the usual insufferable New Ager, with a smattering of American and Oriental influences.Inane, pointless dreck. Closely resembles narcosis.This is the man who almost single-handed invented the soulless, horrid New Age genre.How did we come to this? Ours is truly a degenerate age.Just what we need: the aural equivalent of waiting in the unemployment line. No thank you!Those who are about to snore salute you!!!----------NOT RECOMMENDED EXCEPT FOR THOSE WITH INSOMNIA--- | 01 star
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Plunge Rocks!
If you want to hear a band with genuine heart and a sound that will make you jump outta your seat, this is the band for you. Lead by front man, Mike Ruocco, Plunge knows how to make you dance, make you cry, and make you feel truly alive like you've never felt before! This cd is absolutely amazing and a great tribute to this band's amazing talent. | 45 stars
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Not for the Casual 'Cuban' Music fan.....(But well worth the effort, if your a committed fan!!!!)
The "Buena Vista Social Club" album, has (deservedly) opened the way for a lot of the Latin-Jazz & Afro-Cuban music that come after it, for western listeners. And it has brought to a lot of peoples attention, the beautiful Latin rhythms, and agile South American performances attributed to this passionate form of music. There are those (a small minority) that will argue that, the 'Buena Vista Social' label, has become something of a commercial collective/enterprise...and is now used, to launch/sell the solo careers of those involved, and isn't a completely 100% accurate representation of the various strands of Cuban music out there, but more a easily digestible form of it. I myself, admit to truly getting into the music via that album, and the various 'affiliated' albums, and as much as I truly love all the albums, I don't believe that Cuban music (and it's multitude of artists), starts/stops, with the 'Buena Vista' Label.Well....for those that Love the music, or indeed crave a little more 'Authenticity', and don't believe that most musicians that play their passionate music on the street corners of Havana, have access to pianos, Cellos, Guitars & horn arrangements, will welcome this release. And it's hard to doubt the authenticity of this release when the music (which is far more 'Afro-Centric'), than anything on the Buena Vista label, is anything but representative of the musicians that simply lack the money/access to proper musical equipment. This is an album that was recorded in 1997 (Havana), and is actually a recording of the sacred music of the Afro- Cuban religion "Santeria", and so this is in-effect spiritual music, devoid of any commercial intent, it is music that is centred around rhythmically percussive drum arrangements (usually on a sacred 'Bata' Drums), and the music takes the form of a sort of gospel chanting, (backed with a singing chanting chorus group), and feels a little like a massively stripped down form, of multicultural worldbeat, that produces an utterly unique hybrid of maintaining traditional styles, with the enthusiastic performances of world music.But those looking for a collection of musicans, all performing on a multitude of instruments, would be well advised to be warned, that you won't find it here!!!....this is music stripped down to it barest elements (Consisting of nothing but, multiple drums/Singers), and those accustomed to the exemplary multi-generational big band performances That cover: Latin dance, mambo, cha cha, salsa, & rumba are all absent here. This music has far more in common with African music, and the simplistic drum rhythms and rousing free-form chantings, are more inclined to traditional organic expressionistic ethnic music, that (unfortunately) a lot of the more causal listeners, that buy this thinking: it's going to be accessible 'Cuban' music, will have great difficultly penerating. As there are no immediately accessible choruses, or expert musicanship, or catchy musical hooks or swirling melodies to latch onto. And so what you get is a almost spiritual-folk singing (with the accompanying group of singers, providing chorus), that hits a celebratory feel throughout, and the musical accompaniment is merely a collection of tabla sounding drum compostions, by which assists the singing.But to merely dismiss this music would be foolish....admittedly this review isn't intended to those with just a passing interest in Cuban music, and is really focused at those that have long since moved on from the more commercially available forms of Cuban music, and await something new and substantial to sink their teeth into. I'll be the first to admit, that when I first listened to this, the bare-bones performances surprised me at first, and I sat there waiting for more instruments to complement the passionate singing (which didn't come), but reading the 24 page accompany booklet explained a lot, and made understanding this (intially difficult to digest) music, far easier to get my head around. But I've listened to this album several times now, and each time has proved to be a far more rewarding experience, and I found that once I became accustomed to the minimal instrumentation, that It has that hypnotic effect, that you find your mind settling into. And after several listens, it becomes clear that this is enriching music, that feels woefully authentic to it's musical source (and with something so 'bare-bones', how could it not be??), that an appreciation of the music begins to truly shine through. And it has the noted honour of being one of those albums that you can stick on in the background, whilst work/doing something else, or you can actually sit down, and absorb the musical craftmanship here on display. Either way, its a initially unforgiving and not immediate album, that you grow into, and begin to appreciate the fact that, the music is in it's raw undiluted form.Anyone reading this review, and feels like that might be an album, that needs an open mind, and requires the listener to give the album the benefit of the doubt, would be right. Cuban music is now largely accessible to us all, and this isn't an album of the summery & relaxed Latin like: "Buena Vista Social Club", "Rubén González", "Compay Segundo", "Ibrahim Ferrer" or indeed "Ry Cooder's" work. This is music that is an indication of a old form of Afro- Cuban religious music, that seemingly sounds remarkably like African-Chant music, that'll confuse anyone looking for the next accessible Cuban album, and it's an album that'll almost definitely won't enjoy a fraction of the success that the previously mentioned albums have. But those listeners that still continue to enjoy the more accessible side of Cuban music, but are also keen to either (A) Dig a little deeper, and learn a completely different side to Cuban/Latin music, or (B) Want a new, substantial musical expression to sink their teeth into. Are thoroughly advised to seek out initially difficult, but ultimately magnificent album that the label compilers refer to as: "Anyone who wants to trace back the roots of Latin and Salsa music from New York to Cuba and Africa should enjoy this CD" | 45 stars
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GIFT
this was a birthday gift for my oldest grandson. he said he liked it a lot. he passed it on to his brother. | 45 stars
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10cc's recording and songwriting peak...a great album
This enormously listenable work still holds up beautifully today, and competes with the band's 1977 release "Deceptive Bends" as far as which is best, but both climb the hierachy of greatness. 10cc should have been much bigger than they were, but at the same time I'm glad they never went TOO commercial as it might have ruined them. That listenable way they have of going through several changes within a single song is always captivating--it's hard NOT to keep listening to this album, what with its sense of humor throughout, and just good "hooks" and melodies that immediately become addictive upon listening. Favorites on this album are "I'm Mandy, Fly Me", "Art for Art's Sake," "Head Room," and in general, pretty much the whole album. 10cc was a true original...no doubt of that. The hooks, the catchy music with so many time signatures and the changes the band goes through within a single song still amaze me. And the illuminating harmony and phrasing catches the band's charactistic sound. This is a must have for all 10cc fans. Great stuff. One of my favorite albums of the 1970s. Best to also have "Deceptive Bends" on hand to compare the two and get twice the musical enjoyment. | 45 stars
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emotional rollercoaster of incredible sounds!!!
I was, like some of the previous reviewers, hesitant to see what Ben Folds would be without his two cohorts. Of course, after listening to Annie Waits, the first song on the cd, I was back in Ben Folds Bliss. I cannot say in words how beautiful, sad, and even funny this album is!! Ben Folds piano is brilliant and magnificant in "ascent of stan", "the luckiest", "Carrying Cathy". But I could say that every song on the album is a masterpiece. Except of course, for the title song "Rockin' the suburbs", which was probably made to satisfy the Blink 182, Limp Bizkit, and whatever else falls into that todays alternative sub-music category (I am so far removed from that). The song just doesn't fit at all with the rest of the album.Of course, even with one not so great song, there are eleven real gems. My favorites include "the luckiest", "Annie Waits", "Ascent of Stan", "Fred Jones, pt.2", and possibly my favorite "Gone". All are good. If I am looking for the album of the year so far, this one might be the one. | 45 stars
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Pretty Good!
This CD, i think, was a very underrated CD. it deserved way more sales then it got. it's much better then her first 2, which were pretty much, "extreme pop". this cd had a very differnt feel to it, and sort of reminded me of Natalie Imbruglia. She tried something different, and i think it worked! BEST TRACKS: Cry, Saturate Me, Yo-Yo | 34 stars
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Absolutely Great CD!
Not sure why people are bashing this CD because it's one of my absolute favorite CD's of all time. My first Scorps purchase was "The Zoo" on a 45. For you youngens, that's a single song on a vinyl disk that's played on a record player. Good luck finding any of these anymore! I upgraded from my 45 version of The Zoo to the full-blown LP. I had to save up my pennies to get this expensive album when it came out and then figure out how to record it onto a cassette. What can I say, I was a kid and I was broke. For those that don't know what an album is, it's also a vinyl disk but this baby ran at 33 revolutions per second and had better quality sound than the 45 and even had a bunch more songs like a CD does today. The cassette was a miracle product that came on the market shortly after those wonderful 8 track players came into full swing. Ah, I miss the days of seeing an 8-track tape fluttering in the breeze after someone threw the tape out his or her car window at 65 mph because the darn thing got stuck in the player for the last time. Those were the days all right. Speaking of CD's, when these little beauties came on the scene, I had the money and went straight out and bought this CD right after buying my first CD player. At that time you couldn't record to a CD like you can today. Did I mention I didn't stop there? I had to go out and get the DVD's as well and how about that mp3 file in my cell phone? Anyway, I've played these songs through most of my adult life. On the CD version I played the laser dots off the disk. Did I mention I'm loosing my hearing from playing Scorps rock tunes like Still Loving You at full volume on a Boze system that really cranks? But wait, there's more. I love the songs on this album, oops, I mean CD, so much that I couldn't just listen to them anymore. I wanted to learn how to play them myself so I went to the local Guitar Center Store and spent a little more coin on a new $1000 guitar and $900 Marshall amp. Sorry Amazon, you weren't even a twinkle in someone's eye back in those days. After doing this I learned just how talented the Scorps are and admired their talent even more. The Scorpions are master musicians and the reviewers are right, this CD doesn't have all the Scorp songs but it's the CD you must have if you love the Scorps. The songs on this CD are the ones the Scorps are known for and I wouldn't trade this CD for anything. They'll have to pry this CD out of my cold dead hands after I die! | 45 stars
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hurray for the miracle of the carousel microwave!
YAY beatles. this is a classic album, and a decade defining one. early beatles were ok, but this album rocks. the best traks are 'come together, and herecomesthesun.see you later. remember, don't tickle any platypus. | 45 stars
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Best French Jazz since Paris Trio
I just purchased this disk and am floored at the vocal abilities of Karrin Allyson. I've been a big fan of everyone from Astrud Gilberto to Chrystal Bell to the Paris Trio, and this disk bests them all. Track four, O Pato, earns a lighthearted place amongst the jazz greats of history. It's worth every penny and then some. | 45 stars
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Good but not jeff's best
The asking price is insane! I bought this disk from Jeff's website for $15 plus S&H. The disc is great but it's raw & raunchy, sort of harsh... Don't buy at this price; go to Jeff's website and buy the "Official Bootleg USA 2006" much better recording and it sells for just $15 plus S&H... | 34 stars
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classic chill out
superb chill out album,just kick back close your eyes relax and enjoy.up there with klf chill out.5 out of 5 | 45 stars
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One of the best crossover voices of all time
They are calling it Neo-classical. It's the classically trained voice, singing with some "pop" quality, and singing newer compositions including modern instruments.Josh Groban has a fabulous singing voice, and the selection of songs on this recording is nearly flawless. I love the fact that he is helping to bridge the gap between "pop" and "art" musics. | 45 stars
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Remarkable Debut
Bill's first album under his own name, recorded when he was 26, is of primary value to the Evans' collector, who can read about the album's background in Peter Pettinger's "How My Heart Sings." More than the personal expression of the artist, it's a revealing, extrovertish "statement" by the newest young pianist on the block, eager to prove he's a major contender in a field of few giants and many pretenders.Evans' own composition, "Five," disguises rhythmic complexity within a simple Monkish melody. And on another original, "Displacement," his breathless, dazzling bebop lines evoke the melodic/rhythmic complexity of Bud Powell played in the flawless, incisive technical manner of Lennie Tristano. By contrast, the two takes of "No Cover, No Minimum," a simple blues in G, find Bill struggling a bit to contain his technique sufficiently to produce a Horace Silver double-time feel.But there's also some hint of what's to come--Bill's "Waltz for Debbie," played more floridly here than on the later recordings, and "My Romance," which he would return to again and again during the final year of life.An album such as this exposes the rugged machinery, the technical mastery, that serves as a foundation for many of the most original creative artists--from Coltrane to Schoenberg to Picasso. It's that rock-solid inner core that permits the groundbreaking artist to expose his vulnerability and at the same time inspires our trust. | 45 stars
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Epic "messege rock" that reverberates today...
Transcending time and musical revision, Pink Floyd's "The Wall" stands as an epoch work that makes one wonder if this type of music/message could be accomplished today. This classic epitomized the height of "Art Rock" and really changed music (and the band for that matter) forever.Roger Water's ode to the slow descent into abhorrent pychosis has a uniqueness and novelty even today that grabs the listener and drags him along for a truly one-of-a -kind musical experinece. Pink Floyd's combination of tight musical discipline and the slightly off-key musings of Waters create a rock classic that serves as an alternative to this and any period's music. "They just don't make music like this anymore..." Songs such as "Comfortably Numb", "Mother", "Young Lust", "Vera", "Waiting For the Worms" and "Outside the Wall" speak not only to past generations...they reach the introspective side of any thoughtful music listener past or present.As with any "concept" album from the 70's (the Stones, Led Zeppelin, even Earth, Wind and Fire and the Ohio Players) this should be listened to in it's entirety many times to capture it's true artistic genius. These songs flow so easily one into another, they epitomize the late 70's "monster" album production techniques. This truely is the height of Pink Floyd's career and, by virtue of it's evident popularity, still presents a freshness and immediacy that makes other comtemporary works pale by comparison.Sadly, this work marked the beginning of the end of this great combination. The 1982 issue "The Final Cut" was largely a continuation of the separation of Roger Waters from the group and even though some great music eminated from this breakup, rock music never has approached this type of soaring, intellectual musicality ever again. Strong lyrical voice along with exemplary musical backing, Pink Floyd enjoys a place in contemporary music that few others have attained. This album epitomizes that standing and should be essential listening for all contemporary and future generations to really understand how to formulate monlithic concept albums. Highest recommendation. | 45 stars
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If you want the music from the DVD, get this...
I got this before I got the DVD, and I got the DVD of Alive IV later. If you want to listen to the music from the show in your car, then this is worth the purchase. Otherwise, there are no surprises. It's the exact same material. And I'd be willing to bet from the abyssmal sales of the CDs that people realize that KISS is simply a big audio visual show and not a band to listen to on CD anymore. This is especially obvious since the Alive DVD has gone multi-platinum and the CD release has failed to even go gold.. | 23 stars
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Underated...
Finally a re-release of the album considered to be one of the best P-Funk albums of the 80's. This came out around the same time as George Clintons 'Some of my Best Jokes are Friends" and in some ways was the better album - although at the time it was almost completely dismissed. I had found it in a bargain bin on vinyl (when there was only vinyl) and was totally blown away by how good this album is. All the songs are tight funk jams with the familiar P-Funk vocals (Gary Shider, G. Clinton)/ choral singing backup. There is even what sounds to be the first Prince and P-Funk collaboration 'I want your daughter'. All in all a great overlooked album that is finally getting it's due. No matter who this album was made for or around there is no mistaking that this is a classic 80's period P-Funk album. At the time, along with 'Some of my Best Jokes...' a powerful return for George Clinton and the P-Funk All Stars. Check it out! | 45 stars
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what's all the hype
I bought this cd after reading the glowing review it got on Stereophile, after listening to it for 2-3 days, I had to return it. Mr Wallace don't have a lot ideas to play, he has a certain phrase that he keeps playing over and over again in a song, on every song. 2 stars is for the rhythm section. | 12 stars
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Outstanding
This CD is the best that I have heard in years. I love it. | 45 stars
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My personal favorite AC/DC album
One thing that is great about Dirty Deeds and AC/DC in their early years is that they seemed more willing to try new things and most of the time it worked. The main reason I like this one the best is because not many(maybe 2) of the songs sound the same and they are all great. A little history here: thre original realease from 1976 contained only 7 of the 9 songs here while "Rocker" and "Love At First Feel" were not. "Rocker" ws from TNT and "Love At First Feel" was a studio leftover. They replaced "Jailbreak" and "R.I.P(Rock In Peace)" but with the later two on the album it is by far the best one. Oh, one more thing, its filled with the darkest stuff Bon Scott wrote. | 45 stars
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big label, good choice
Being a huge a.f.i. fan for years now i was very hesitant to hear thier first major label debut,but i should have known better cause these guys just dont dissapoint. Sing the sorrow has all the qualities of old a.f.i. stuff but with a more cleaned up sound.Killer vocals, awesome musicians, and really really wicked lyrics. This album just really kicks and it retails cheap so everyone should go out and grab a copy. | 45 stars
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A Must Have
Let me state the obvious. The epic 'Who's next' ranks as one of the greatest accomplishments in music history. However, lets not forget the packaging of this deluxe edition. In an age with music downloads, the CD has become almost an after thought. Not in this case! You'll get a high quality, durable package that opens like a book. The discs are designed to look like the original record. The booklet is more like a novel -- almost 30 pages including some rare photos. There's no question this will become a collectors item down the road. You also might want to check out the Who's other deluxe editions. I have them all and keep them in pristine condition.The Who Sell Out Deluxe EditionLive At Leeds [Deluxe EditionMy Generation (Dlx) (Dig)The Who Sell Out Deluxe Edition | 45 stars
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The Wild West: The Essential Western Film Music Collection
I'm a snowbird and have bought two copies of this CD; one for each home. It's a wonderful, well orchestrated, symphonic CD. If you love great soundtracks and great composers, you will love this. Very exhilarating! | 45 stars
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for any fans or metal..
I highly suggest picking up this CD, wether you are a fan of old school metal, nu metal, etc. It has rare unreleased tracks from bands such as Chimiaira, Glassjaw, ill Nino, and many more. It also has tracks from old school metal, such as bands like: Machine Head, Obituary, and Sepultura. It is also a very cheap CD. Be sure and pick it up! This is one the best compliation CDs I have ever heard. | 45 stars
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intresting
p-diddy shows off his new crew, and is ready to take the challenge of the nay sayers in this album. while many hate him and many love him p-diddy personifies many things in hip hop today. one a faction of people in the hip hop community that love to hate, MC's that is, whether it is warrented or not is another thing, but it does exist. some would say that sean combs suffers from the syndrom of being hated because he has monoplozied so much on the hip hop world. more so then russell simons, and many others, and many obeservers would say he is in this industry simply to make money. and while that is the purpose of industry you must remeber music is an odd industry combining art with money so this is a tricky slop.etheir way this is a great album. | 45 stars
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Stunning release
Now, there are plenty of brilliant albums wich I've heard that include loads of stunning tracks, but there are always some songs that aren't completely up the level. But with this true calssic, I have to testify that kind o f mirracle. Every song just drops me downn with a huge amount of intensity and brilliancy. Especially the beginning song "War Pigs" a seven minute - long monument. After hearing it there's really no complains. Of course, then there are the crowdfaves "Iron Man" and, the big hit of their's: "PARANOID". It is really hard to write a review about something that has had so much influence on your music taste and the way you understand music. Anyone who wants to get aknowledged from good heavy rock music should have a go with this album. Please. Just Do It. | 45 stars
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