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Perhaps the most overlooked Bowie album -- perhaps the best!
OK.You can "hear" so many influences woven together:1) late 60's experimentalism and chord changes;2) early 70's rock-trio-live Hendrix-esque jams;3) direct & raw sound, early early metal;4) All filtered through early Progressive grandiousity, and5) "Brellian" Cabaret.But, the exact same music played 5 years later would have stripped out the 60's innocence & experimentalism, and used a more chunky sound with less space that would have pre-viewed Spinal Tap.So, why is this record so good? It's so raw!! If The Who have "Live at Leeds," Bowie has "The Man Who Sold The World." Both show off very direct sounding rock bands. They are both executed by people just flowing and very "uncouscious" of themselves, just following their instincts.That's such a rare thing now, where money, media-outlets and market-research have refined out any "questionable" quirks that puts a unique "personality" into music.People today, Bowie included, can play much better and sound much better and even have better songs, but arrangement & production choices are now getting so homogeneous from artist to artist as labels try to fit them into marketing niches.And I wonder what would be revealed if the original reels/tracks to these songs were mixed again in 2002? Adding not a single note, would a remix applying a 2002 sence of sound production create something equally interesting but in a whole different way?You bet it would! | 45 stars
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Chainmailsox
The initial reaction for this album for many old ghost fans will be shock and possibly dissapointment...but listen on and give it a chance. No, it's not Ironman or Supreme Clientele..but that is what makes is great-an origional work. It kind of has a psuedo-poppy vibe to it, but there is an underlying rawness that exudes every track. This album exists somewhere outside both the backpacker and bling blinger camps, with elements of both styles but with its own identity. But this isn't pop, don't be fooled for a second. The beats are great, alchemist throws down some great loops which ghost spits over and the RZA continues to prove his versatility (away from the classic minor key string driven ominous wu-beats) and drops some funky stuff. The album kicks off with a funk/rock track with a live band that is just raw as f##k. As far as the lyrics, they are top-notch. Not as absrtact as on S.Clientele (the finnegans wake of hip hop!) but still not your average J-hova ryhmes. He combines poetic wordplay with gritty street wisdom. Overall, this album is great, takes a few times to get used to but you'll find yourself going back to it over and over again. | 45 stars
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Wow, as in "oh yes"
This is officially one of the finest albums in the collection, if not the definitive album to say the least, from engineers/producers cEvin-Key and Phil Western. From their Skinny Puppy days, their emotive response to the industrial setting is reflected in the outstanding programming on this album. In track eight, an ambiguous climax is finished off by one of the best and highest quality bass pulses I have heard in an album.Despie the elusive nature of most Download (even their other side project OhGR, which is creative in force and composition), whenever you have the chance or see one of their albums, whether it is Furnace, The Eyes of Stanley Pain, Charlie's Family, or any of the other EPs including Sidewinder, get it, you will not be disappointed. If you are not sure of the ambient-industrial scene, this album is a decent, if not hypothetically susccessful buffer. You will not be disappointed. the content of the album is varied, yet consistent and dissolved, programmed ingeniously, and the songs, though few, are long and unique to their own nature.Final thought: BLARGEEBOP! | 45 stars
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Superb soundtrack!
This soundtrack has to be one of the most iconic! When you put together a classic film and on top of that, a great soundtrack, nothing can go wrong. The selected songs are all just so upbeat, positive and romantic. They're also such a good mix of genres and sounds from different eras! | 45 stars
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GREAT COMEBACK CD!
The new cd by Def Leppard takes us back to the classic Def Leppard! Great metal/ rock n roll! Much better than their "Slang" cd or anything else they've done since Hysteria. It didn't get 5 stars from me only because Hysteria is their best cd and always will be. | 34 stars
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Wow, Ricky and the boys wont stop!
Ancient Tones is great! A must for anyone who appreciates great music. I had the chance to see ricky this summer, and if you havnt do yourself a favor, they are one of the few bands from any musical style that are as good live as on CD. I think a lot of people would agree with me that Ancient Tones and Bluegrass rules are two of the best bluegrass albums period. The musicianship is unmatched, and the vocals are supberb. Bryon Sutton is surely from a different planet, I have never heard such unbelievable acoustic guitar work. If you dont have Ricky, and Kentucky Thunder in your collection, do yourself a favor, and buy both their albums. | 45 stars
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Kick Azz!
Crunching riffs, kick azz vocals, beats that make you jump and a bass sound that almost makes you puke! Get this CD so you're not missing out!!! | 45 stars
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Not really "Good Enough To Keep!"
The 4 CD mini Gibson Amp 'box-set'leaves off genuine off vinyl 78, and Lp 'harder-to-get' Charlie Christian/Benny Goodman recordings. Legacy states "MASTER TAKES", but absolutely fails to research deep into Charlie Christian's recording history.Columbia vinyl 2Lp 30779, (1972), and Columbia 78rpm C -102 along with the Columbia "Sextet" Cds leave legacy far behind.The Wang Wang Blues -78rpm isn't in the 4CD set, and there are far too many 'false-starts', which Benny Goodman discarded for a good reason. Star Dust is only about 3 minutes, it's 8 minutes on vinyl. There is even In-studio handclapping after some tunes.I have the 78s, many Col. Lps, and there is no "Studio-Live" takes. This 4 CD box could have, and should have been much better in information, content and genuine Charlie Christian guitar stylings. The 2 readily available BG Sextet Cds are a better purchase idea, but there are still those super hard-to-get vinyl Lp tracks, which ARE "The Master Takes", left Off the legacy/Sony box set. Musicologist's suggestion, try to get the vinyl Lps. Skip this misleading 4 CD set of various tracks, + handclapping = NOT "Good Enough To Keep", (AirMail Special).Try the 2 Benny Goodman/Charlie Christian Columbia CDs, Amazon has both, and most of the Benny Goodman Sextet 'takes' are Master Takes, and "Good Enough To Keep!" | 12 stars
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Golden Eric Clapton!
Eric Clapton is such a talented and feeling musician and it shines through in his work. Some of his music even brings a tear to my eye (Tears In Heaven) and evokes the sensitive guy in me. Change The World really moves me. The rest of the songs are really good too. Don't miss out on this album. Get it! | 45 stars
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Never Transferred To CD
When this first came out as a 2-record vinyl LP and cassette in 1977, it immediately became one of Capitol's best-selling albums, eagerly snapped up by Linda Ronstadt's many fans. But for some reason this was one that never made it into CD format and that's really too bad because it's a nice mix of some of her biggest hit singles and album cuts at Capitol, both as a solo artist and with The Stone Poneys.Such a transfer would have at least eliminated the background hiss associated with tapes (although in this case that's not bad at all) and perhaps allowed for liner notes/discography (this has neither). But, tapes being what they were, any that were molded together, as opposed to being assembled with small screws/bolts, tended to sometimes become warped if the tape itself became even slightly swollen, thus slowing down the revolutions when in the tape deck. That's what happened to mine, although I was able to fix it by breaking open the cassette and transferring the spools to another case with the small screws/bolts. Now it works fine.By the way, if someone does decide to put this on CD, how about a bonus track or two to include a couple of the Capitol hits left out: Up To My Neck In High Muddy Water billed to Linda Ronstadt And The Stone Poneys on Capitol 2110, and a # 93 Hot 100 in April 1968; and (She's A) Very Lovely Woman - # 17 Adult Contemporary/# 70 Hot 100 on Capitol 3021 in February 1971 (the flip, The Long Way Around is in this collection, regarded as a "follow-along" hit on both charts).The tracks in this release are: A1. When Will I Be Loved?; A2. Silver Threads And Golden Needles; A3. Hobo; A4. I Fall To Pieces; A5. Birds; A6. I Can't Help It If I'm Still In Love With You; B1. Different Drum; B2. Some Of Shelly's Blues; B3. I'll Be Your Baby Tonight; B4. Louise; B5. Long, Long Time; C1. Faithless Love; C2. Rock Me On The Water; C3. Lovesick Blues; C4. Rescue Me; C5. Just A Little Bit Of Rain; C6. The Long Way Around; D1. You're No Good; D2. Ramblin' Round; D3. Crazy Arms; D4. It Doesn't Matter Anymore; D5. Will You Love Me Tomorrow?Here the beautiful Linda showed she was adept at covering everyone from Patsy Cline to Hank Williams and Buddy Holly to Betty Everett, and for my money anyway (and with apologies to The Nitty Gritty Dirt Band), delivers probably THE best version of Some Of Shelly's Blues. | 34 stars
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One of my Favorites!
This is a great cd that can be listened to all the way through. It takes me back to my senior year of high school and it's a good cd to listen to when you are really in love with someone. | 45 stars
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Pure Bliss!!!!
This is such an amazing Cd and Krishna Das is such an amazing artist with a true gift from God!! The first track is well worth the price. From the very begining until the end this CD will slowly melt away all those knots strangling your heart and leave you with a very warm fuzzy feeling. If your stressed or upset with the world pop this CD in and it will be impossible to stay upset for to long:~)I think this is definately his best Cd yet, it is very well produced and you can tell he has matured as a composer of Hindu Kirtans.Very Well done Krishna Das! Love Ya!! | 45 stars
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The Last Airplane
Grace's exhilirating vocals. Paul's wonky driving anthems. Jack & Jorma's deft departures. Great and lost. | 45 stars
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Not a definitive collection, but still good.
The problem with some "greatest hits" collections is that they don't include every hit. Lee Roy Parnell's Hits And Highways Ahead is no exception. Songs like "Take These Chains From My Heart" and "Giving Water To A Drowning Man" are overlooked on this collection. Both songs were Top 20 country hits. "Take These Chains From My Heart" reached #17 and "Giving Water To A Drowning Man" reached #12. This should have warranted their inclusion. There are no songs from his 1990 debut album "Lee Roy Parnell" probably because it produced no major hit singles. He had two Top 40 singles from "Every Night's Is A Saturday Night" which are also not included on this collection.However you can't argue with what is here. This collection has ALL of Parnell's Top 10 country hits like Love Without Mercy, On The Road, I'm Holding My Own and Heart's Desire. His signature songs What Kind Of Fool Do You Like I Am, Tender Moment and A Little Bit Of You are all here. Also included is If The House Is Rockin' which never released as single. Not all of Parnell's good songs ever got released as singles. The new songs on this collection are good especially She Won't Be Lonely Long which was unfairly overlooked at radio.If you just want Lee Roy Parnell's biggest hits, this is the collection to get. Still, I recomend getting all of Lee Roy Parnell's CD's if you can. He made some great album cuts as well. | 45 stars
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Another Stellar Masterpiece
The first time I heard "A Rush of Blood to the Head", I felt that it was not as good as "Parachutes". After the song "Clocks", the CD fell a little bit to me. But, after listening to it for a few months, I now believe that it's almost as good as their debut. Leadoff single "In My Place" is as good, if not better, than anything they've put out previously and second single "The Scientist" is good, though the video improves the song immensely. My favorite songs, however, are "Politik" and the title track. The former is about the hardest rock track they've written, but reminds me of the Flaming Lips' song "One More Robot/Sympathy 3000-21" in the way that in the end, the tone seems to change completely into something more hopeful or desperate. The latter is about the closest Coldplay's ever going to come to a 9/11 tribute...and it works brilliantly ("Someone laughed, some just sit and cry/But you just sit down there and you wonder why"). Overall, Coldplay has once again turned out an amazing body of work. | 45 stars
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My Father's Music Redone
"The Look of Love" is Diana Krall's long-awaited followup to her 1999 Grammy-winning "When I Look In Your Eyes". It probably isn't the followup myself (or other Krall fans)anticipated. For me, the songs themselves reminded me of the music my father listened too when I was a kid. Understandably so- its largely covers of those same songs (gasp!)."The Look of Love" has its moments and, when listened in the right mood and setting, does well. In other words, this isn't "cruising" music- its made up of "laid back" piano bar tunes you listen to in the dark driving home after a long day, or (better yet) that CD you put on after a fun night out on the town with your honey...that quiet romantic dinner...anyway, you get the idea."The Look of Love" doesn't measure up to the jazzy combo music Krall has done previously, but glimpses of those better times come out ocassionally- witness the soulful "Cry Me A River", the amourous "Dancing in the Dark", or the well-done title track. The best song to me, however, is the closer- "Maybe You'll Be There"- it easily could have fit into her 1999 triumph without a problem.Unfortunately, "S'Wonderful", "Besame Mucho", and various other overstringed covers would not. Overall, it's an OK CD, but falls short of her previous efforts. The idea of combining Diana Krall with the London Symphony Orchestra sounded good, but let's hope she returns to her jazz excellence in the next album. | 23 stars
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Good version, no is a new remastered.
For the price I waiting a better job from JVC, the sound is the remastered in 1993, and no is like XRCD o SACD. I hope soon that SONY UK made a 5.1 version in SACD. | 34 stars
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a very good soundtrack
i must confess i did not like the movie Rent that much. it was very conservative according to the stage musical ( that was revolutionary) .the best thing in the movie was this soundtrack, that is full of electricity , energy and passion ( and with a very good quality of sound )there is no deferent interpretation from the stage musical(usually there is a deferent interpretation)even the leading actors are the actors from the original cast. but this is a very good performance and worth listening to . | 45 stars
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Good CD
Ok, if you are looking at this review wondering if you should buy the cd, dont be fooled by all these haters. If this CD was so bad then how did it sell over 10 million copies. But just like all types of music you have to appreciate it to like it. I really enjoyed it and I know lots of other people that have enjoyed it to. If you listened to the sampler and you liked what you heard pick yourself up one of these. Dont be fooled by the people that dont like it, it's just there opinion. | 45 stars
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everyone needs to watch this DVD
Every age will love this video. If you have ever been to disney land it brings back those fond memories and if you never have it will want you to start planning your next vacation! Great DVD | 45 stars
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Quit reading my review and BUY THIS CD!!!
OK, so it wasn't as good as Adrenaline (In my opinion) but it's still a good CD all the way through. They really have some spirit to their music (Especially in the hidden track)Great guitar work, and it's about as thrashy as it is sad at some points. GET THIS CD!There is only one disappointment: They wasted about 20 minutes of the CD because of the hidden track and the last song. I WANT MORE!Buy this if you like Korn, Coal Chamber, Tool, or Limp Bizkit (Assuming you've heard more songs from then than just "Sour") | 45 stars
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Brillant Film
Jane Campion offers a well crafted inspirational look at the fortitude of the gifted writer Janet Frame. Beautifully filmed and well acted. | 45 stars
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How can he be bad
Great songs, great book, great bruc | 45 stars
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one of the ultimate fz collections!!!
in the long line of fz releases, this is superb! the playing by all musicians is somewhat short of revelation. i discovered this piece from a friend of mine when i resided in n.y. since i listened to it for many years in lp form, i figured that i had to have it for my d.i.d. collection. it is and always (since my high school days in the 70's) has been one of my faves. simply put: MUST HAVE THIS CD!!!! | 45 stars
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The best Stone Temple Pilots CD ever
Purple is the Stone Temple Pilots crowing achivement. I never liked them until i listened to Purple and now i think that they are great. I deeply reccomend that you buy it. | 45 stars
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WEBSTER HALL VOLUME 3"THE BEST DANCE RECORD"
With super DJ Smokey Fontaine in the Mix, Webster Hall delivers yet another banging upbeat, upfront, uptempo DANCE compilation album. Released in just in time for the holiday gift giving season, this compilation will make an excellent stocking stuffer for those who love dance radio (e.g. WKTU). What's on this disc? Progressive house at its finest. Johnny Vicious fans, take note of track 3, ECSTACY. Vocal fans, do not despair, Boy George's WHEN WILL YOU LEARN, track 8, will take you THERE!Serving all thing to all people, DJ Smokey Fontaine mixes in SM Tracks, GOT THE GROOVE dropping seriously hypnotic horns. Why else buy this CD? For the SpeedGarage song that started it all, Armand Van Helden's rendition of SUGAR IS SWEETER by CJ Bolland. Listen for the ambient breakdown with those sweet female vocals"Sugar daddy, set me free . . . Sugar daddy, come for me . . . Sugar daddy, set me free . . . Sugar daddy, come for me"And then that awsome BASSLINE!So, if you like your Johnny Vicious, your house progressive and love choons like the summer anthem MEET HER AT THE LOVEPARADE, run, don't walk to your record shop for your copy of Webster Hall NY Dance CD Volume 3.2 pe | 45 stars
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this cd rocks
i love this cd and fred durst is such a hottie | 45 stars
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Truth is Freeing
I think the CD is insightful and very genuine. I have a new found respect for Lauryn and her music. | 34 stars
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Elegance
When you mention hammered dulcimer music to some people they may cringe or smile with that blank stare. Hammered dulcimer? what is it. Take a listen to the Elegance of Hammered Dulcimer. I believe you will be glad you did | 34 stars
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Great!
It really frustrates me that people have been complaining so strongly about this CD. In my eyes American Life is a great album. Here, Madonna strays away from the techno style she's been exploring since Ray of Light 1998. Although, of course, some of the CD is electronic, some tracks, such as "Intervention" or "X-Static Process" rely on guitars to carry the beat. I recommend this album to anyone who enjoys a pleasant mixture of several musical styles. In my opinion, "Nothing Fails" is one of Madonna's greatest ballads to date (as her more recent collection Confession On A Dance Floor contains none).The reason this CD was considered a "flop" was because it dealt with some sensitive topics, like politics. The album was released when the war in Iraq emerged. I agree that it was unwise of Madonna to be making such statements at such a time. And the CD Cover might have scared off some people too.Nevertheless, this is a solid CD and there is no reason not to buy it. Hits like "Hollywood" and "Die Another Day" are on here, so you just CAN'T miss it! | 45 stars
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Balance
You know when you can't put a finger on what kind of music you want to listen to? This is the perfect cd for those very moments. There's nothing I can tell you that you wouldn't figure out from listening to the sound clips, but if you find yourself unable to choose quite often, give it a try. | 34 stars
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Great album
CD was well produced, and had great tracks.If you like Steve Winwood, this is a great album to buy. | 45 stars
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Great collection of music
I'm a huge Oscar Peterson fan, as well as his collaborations with Niels-Henning rsted Pederson on bass. This performance will get your blood flowing and your feet tapping. "The Trio" is one of the two best of Peterson's albums in my opinion. I listen to it over and over without tiring of their energy and technical skills. A must for your Peterson and/or Pederson collection. "The Trio" is jazz at its finest. | 45 stars
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Great New Wave music.
I've always enjoyed this band. Sure they got pigoened-holed with "Turning Japanese", but I found both of their albums very appealling. This is one of those CD's I can't take out of my player, which is the highest compliment indeed. | 45 stars
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BEST ROCK IV'E HEARD IN A WHILE!!!!
First off, I would like to thank Corey Taylor (slipknot singer) for doing this album, one of the most talented vocalists of this decade, and the producers of stone sour, thanx guys this is what i've always wanted!!! Coming from me and about twenty other slipknot fans.Now if you liked songs like "wait and bleed", "me inside" and "my plague", well this is it, and more!! THIS IS DEFINITELY NO SELL OUT ALBUM, Corey Taylor is awesome, his singing is better then most rock vocalists out there, theres emotion still with an edge, like you know he can explode and get crazy, thats the good thing about it.Every song is good on this album(a play straight through album), but my favorites are "orchids", "bother" and "idle hands"the last track shows that hes not just some dope who has no purpose heh, i was cracking up. I am a huge slipknot fan, but i find myself listening to this album way more.I hope Stone sour releases another because I FREAKIN WANT MORE!!!!!! Yeah, thats right because me and all my friends always said "if only Corey Taylor would do more tracks like "me inside" or "wait and bleed" it would be the best rock album in the world. | 45 stars
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A Testament To God's Supremacy & Man's Arrogance. Excellent Score.
The film itself is a mixed bag, but the score is a monumental masterpiece. Written by James Horner, the score evokes the sheer superficiality of the passengers as they board the "Unsinkable" ship, the lust of Rose for Jack & the consummation of their passion and the heart-wrenching tragedy of April 14, 1912. My favourite tracks are:"Southapmton," "Rose," "The Portrait," "Hard To Starboard," "A Building Panic," "Unwilling To Stay, Unwilling to Leave," "The Sinking," "Death Of Titanic," "An Ocean Of Memories" & "My Heart Will Go On." I recommend the soundtrack. (I personally don't think that the movie needed lust, nudity, sex & language; it could have had the love story without all of those elements, which are inappropriate for a PG-13 movie). | 45 stars
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A Remix Gone Wrong
Joey Molland released this CD in the 1990's after remixing and overdubbing the tapes. The fault here is he tried to modernize the sound too much. Live Badfinger would have sounded much better left in the context of the 1970's. The biggest problem to me is the drum sound; it's far too loud, too echoey and reeks of drum samples grafted on in places. Joey also overdubbed his lead vocals and guitar parts, a common fix on live albums. Though out the disc I was drawn to listen to the remixing rather than the original Badfinger performance. Hence my two star rating. | 12 stars
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Pete Seeger and the Weavers
Like setting back in time....Folk songs like they were made to be sung....One of the greats performing and leaving us a reminder of early times | 45 stars
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Worthwhile checkin out
This expands where Around the Fur left off. Chugga Chugga.BABIES!!!!! | 34 stars
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Fantastic
I've had this CD for a couple of monthes now, since March or April, and I have yet to grow sick of it. This is a great album, that is such a great mix. Every track (with the exception of Punk) is fantastic, and offers new soundscapes. If you're a Blur fan, and liked "Death of the Party", you will LOVE this. Dan the Automator fans will love this as well, you can hear his breakback beats on a few of the tracks. Del makes a couple of showings, both of which being very solid (with Clint Eastwood being the better of the two), the best part of the US release in the inclusion of two extra tracks! I've heard the Dracula track before, and I love it... the other track is new to me though. I would also recommend that you try to find the single that has the song "1,2D,3", which is also really good. I'm so happy to see some GOOD music making it mainstream! | 45 stars
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Just an overview of her 25 years in showbiz
The album is great, and it does remark her French work very well there are old songs on it from the 80ies but als some less old songs. It is a collections of songs Céline recorded in 25 years. This collections brigs you to where it all started to where she is today. Céline says on the back of the Limited Edition"Cet album est pour moi bien plus qu'un recueil de chansons.C'est aussi une collection de mois, d'images et de souvenirs qui,une fois réunis , sont mon histoire...et peut-tre un peu la vtre?Ce n'était qu'un rve , vous m'aves permis de le réaliser""This album is more than a collection of somgs for me,it's also a collections of months, images, and memories, who ones joined together are my history..and maybe yours.It was only a dream, but you gave me the chance to make it all happen. I hope you like to listen to this album"The fact that it is copy protected is only a good thing. And giving a bad review only cause it is copy protected is a bad thig if you ask me it has nothing to do with the album itself but only cause of you can't copy it | 45 stars
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A unique take on American music
Bill Frisell has a knack for composing unique songs inside traditional American styles. This album combines country, bluegrass, folk, and blues --- but he gives the blend a modern spin. The music is elegant and personal, played to perfection by Frisell's band.The songs come in two general forms: short sketches of melody and rhythm, and the long songs that gently work out a particular musical theme. It's the long songs that stand out. The high point is "Greg Leisz," a deep blues track and repeats the same simple musical phrase until it becomes hypnotic. Frisell takes the long and the short songs and mixes them up, alternating between the sketches and the deeper, more adventurous tracks. I highly recommend this album. It will introduce you to Bill Frisell's work. From here, you'll want to hear more of his CDs. I recommend Ghost Town after this one. | 34 stars
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Hilarious and
I am very glad I came across this Cd. The 1st time I heard it was 1987. I was 16yrs old, and just realizing I was gay. My wise old aunt gave me this tape on a hunch I was like her, along with some Judy Fjell tapes. This tape is hilarious. They are witty and intelligent. "Must've Been Drunk" and "Wimp" are my personal favorites. The words to "Drunk" have always stuck in my head like a good "CAMP" fire song should. And "Wimp" just cuts to the heart of the matter on everyones feelings of insecurity, but pokes fun at it in only the way Ron & Paul could. The "Dont Use Your Penis For A Brain" may now be a bit dated with the Ronald Reagan mention, but it is still true. Just fill in any current politicians name. "Carnival People" ,while it may be a tad on the schmaltzy side, is still a gem of a little story about theatre folk and ourselves to for those of us who go through or days pretending and acting. For the nostalgic ones out there, this is a must to have, along with the necessary copy of their album "Emotional Rollercoaster" | 34 stars
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Not sure what this is
I generally like music that is unique but I'm not sure what this is. The vocals are not clean enough. Either the singer is not very strong or there is too much emphasis on effects. Either way, the vocals strike me wrong. I also think the music is all over the place. There's definately some interesting songs and quality music, but it seems to lack a strong identity. I've given it three good listens and I find that I want to fast forward too much. | 23 stars
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If you did not like "No Code"
For me their are two distinct versions of Pearl Jam. There is the pre-NO Code version and the one that emerged from No Code.The sound is now softer and there are not as many hooks, but that's not such a bad thing. If you need hooks listen to Creed."Light Years", "Parting Ways" and "Insignificance" are some of the highlights. | 34 stars
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Spice Girls Talk
I think that just because Geri (Sexy Spice) quit the Spice Girls should stop singing . They don't even ,hardly write any new songs.The Spice Girls were like the#1 band until Geri quit . Geri didn't write all of the songs and sing all of thew songs by herself so why should they quit just because she quit? If you agree with what I'm saying e-mail me or spread it around . | 45 stars
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Hide the fine china and crank this up
This remains my favorite of the many ARS albums released over the years. It really cooks. This Iowa boy echoes the sentiments of the fans from Georgia and South Carolina. Great songs, great singing, great playing. (The only sour note for me is that both the original CD I ordered and this replacement copy I'm now listening to are badly distorted 15 seconds into "Jukin." Lasts but a second or two, but it's a real drag. Maybe those guys at Malibu should've used the original master tapes.) But folks, what the band members themselves laid down is without question some of the best Southern rock ever recorded for posterity. I was in my early 20s when this album was released in '76, and I had to wait a long time for the CD of it to come out. It was worth the wait. I can tell you, if you dig the Allmans, the Outlaws, Lynyrd Skynyrd and Marshall Tucker, then do yourself a favor and order this CD. And whatever you do, play it loud. Give those expensive speakers of yours a workout. | 45 stars
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Absolutely Amazing
Velour 100's Fall Sounds is nothing short of amazing. The music is tight in some spots, chaotic in others but done beautifully. Amon's vocals are captivating and hypnotic and add a special element to Trey's music. This is a truly special album. | 45 stars
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real underground Hip Hop
This is a real underground hh album with Jus Allah; very dark atmosphere !The best album from Jus Allah is 'the Devil's Reject'album with Bomshot(The n1 for me!); this is new underground Hip Hop style !!!!!! | 34 stars
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....And Justice for all
First time I saw them in consert was with this album tour. Had been a fan for a number of years. Tookm my best friend to the show and we had a killer time. | 45 stars
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De ode to WW
The man got da casioHe rocks da casioJust needs one buttonJust press sampleWesley is da bomb kidWesley is da bomb kidWesley is da bomb kidWesley is da bomb kidHe weighs 540 poundsHe's out of his mindHe headbutts for funHe a poet of todayWesley is da bomb kidWesley is da bomb kidWesley is da bomb kidWesley is da bomb kidI seen his webpageI seen his DVDI seen him liveI buy his musicWesley is da bomb kidWesley is da bomb kidWesley is da bomb kidWesley is da bomb kidHe should run for presidentHe would make a good presidentThat evil G.W. BushHe is squatting the White HouseWesley is da bomb kidWesley is da bomb kidWesley is da bomb kidWesley is da bomb kid | 45 stars
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An undiscovered talent, that will be discovered
Kathy Mattea is a perfect example of why I have been able to tune into 'country' music. If 'I'm on Your Side' was'nt inspired by the Beatles' 'She's a Woman', then my eardrums are made of saran wrap!This album is a mix of styles, subjects and moods. Why do we all feel we've heard 455 Rocket years ago? Because its classic. This album has not gotten the attention it deserves. In my opinion, if Kathy keeps her quality up to this level, she will someday be seen by the general public as the unique talent she is. And 'Beautiful Fool' is fantastic.P.S. I think her videos are an achievement in their own right. | 45 stars
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Amazing!
Everything was GREAT! This cd came in a brand new fresh packaging platic. The songs were amazing. The audio sounds like modernized cd music. I love this album. These boys are really unsung!!! LOVE LOVES LOves it!! | 45 stars
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Plus another 5 stars... my favorite CD
It's said many times in other reviews... once you hear it, your other CD's take a backseat. I was on the interstate going thru NYC when "Sail Away" came on the radio. I was searching everywhere for a pen and paper to write down the name and artist. Immediately ordered it as soon as I got home and have played little else since that day. Hypnotising. Every day I have a new favorite song. Everyday another song speaks to me. David Gray -- I hope you make it over here! I'm telling everyone I know about you! | 45 stars
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One of many great R T albums
I don't think I can add much to the many fine reviews posted here. There are several classics on Rumor and Sigh; in particular I Feel So Good, 1952 Vincent Black Lightning and Mother Knows Best. These 3 are neatly placed at the front, middle and back of the C D. This is an album to be listened to all the way through. My kids are all about this song or that song. And another one next week. I keep trying to get them to enjoy whole ALBUMS like this one. It's certainly worth the time spent | 34 stars
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This just isn't Walt...
If you are a fan of Wanderley's trademark sixties organ-bossa sound, avoid this cd at all costs! Though the liner notes do not indicate the recording date, it is clear from the pictire inside, as well as the nausea-inducing presence of a cheap ARP synthesizer, that this was recorded sometime in the eighties! Not that this would automatically make it awful; it's just awful period. The group DOES hit some nice grooves occasionally, but Walt's unmistakeable organ sound has all but vanished in place of a smoother, more homogonized tone that could just as easily come out of a Casio keboard; in additon, all the percussion sounds exceedingly bright to the point of annoyance. Over all, this collection completely lacks pretty much everything that makes the rest of Walt's work enjoyable. For die-hard completists only. | 12 stars
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This is definently a CD everybody should have.
This is a collection of all of Sade's singles. I think Sade is a wonderful artist. Her music is so beautiful. There is nobody else like her. She is truley Blessed. Her music is so full of feeling. She talks about all the things that have happened to her in her life and things that have happened to people she knows. She talks about how she used to live in a way worse country. She escaped and came to America. If she goes back she will be arrested and put in to jail. She talks about all of this in certain songs on this collection. She also talks about people she knows who still live there. She also has other songs about love, death, and heart break. You feel so much when you listen to her. Her music can really touch your heart, deep down inside. Songs like "Jezebelle" and "Pearls" talk about people she used to know who still live in the country she escaped from. She also has other smooth and beautiful relaxing songs like "The Sweetest Taboo", "No Ordinary Love", and "Cherish The Day". I love Sade I really recomend this album. Please buy it. It is most definitley worth the money. | 45 stars
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Soviet era performance that lightens up
I was put off by the opening to Kubelik's performance of Op.46 which seemed heavy and over emphatic with too much percussion. I was reminded of those Cast of Thousands Soviet era performances. Fortunately he lightens up as the Dances progress - well you could hardly fail to, could you, they are so lightweight (in the best sense) and humorous.In the end he really got my feet tapping so I'll forgive him his final grandstand bash. It's a performance of its period (1975). Take that whichever way you will... | 34 stars
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The Fixx's debut, the best in my opinion
I know that Reach the Beach is The Fixx's top album. But, Shuttered Room I think is even better, it seems only 2 tracks are really lagging but all of the rest, man just great music and lyrics. My favs are Lost Planes, Cameras in Paris and The Strain. And of course Stand or Fall. If you are a casual Fixx fan, I would recommend picking up this title. You won't be dissapointed. | 45 stars
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A common misconception amongst this thread
Wake up call everybody. 'Whitewater' is the long and beautiful final Kyuss song on this album and the little ditty that follows is called 'Lick Doo'. This is the lounge singer/piano combo of a guy singing 'Honey you know that you can and will lick my doo-ah doo-ah' and 'Whitewater'is the one with the faded in drum beat with guitar lick slowly building over it that comes in with Josh's baeutiful spidery riff and then John Garcia's Jim Morrison/Ian Astbury-esque wail comes crooning slightly under it with the 'You move your own mountains...'.Enough said! | 45 stars
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need the 1968 xmas album
Other reviewers are correct: this is a very good compilation. However, we still need the all of the songs from the 1968 Christmas Album re-released on CD (preferably together). Maybe next year? | 23 stars
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a solid, well-produced collection
I've been getting back into ELO yet again, and beginning to appreciate Jeff Lynne's talent more than ever. Electric Light Orchestra's 1983 album "Secret Messages" strikes me as a solid, badly underrated album.Jeff Lynne was onto something here, and although it was hardly without precedent, he really hit upon an in-your-face ear-candy production style that can be strongly detected in his subsequent production work with George Harrison and Tom Petty. Lynne hadn't entirely abandoned real orchestration here, although to a large extent he had. There are lots of synthesizers--he admits in the liner notes of this 2001 reissue of the album that he was after a more hi-tech sound, and the results are mostly impressive.He also wrote a bunch of quality songs. The uptempo title track is a highly catchy harmony-fest with earthy and atmospheric electric guitar. The tempo-shifting "Loser Gone Wild" is a terrific track with an engagingly bluesy feel on the verses and an extremely catchy, richly harmonized chorus. "Bluebird" is a wistful and affecting, if slightly melodramatic, mid-tempo pop-rocker. The reflective "Stranger" is a supremely enjoyable ballad that sounds very similar to Al Stewart's "Song On The Radio". "Take Me On and On", with its ringing arpegiatted guitars and hushed moody feel, is sumptuous. "Four Little Diamonds" is a lot of fun, with masterfully executed chorus harmonies. Even "Rock 'N' Roll Is King" is hardly as lousy as I used to feel it was.I haven't changed my mind though about "Letter From Spain", which is a dull 'atmospheric' piece with that annoying repetition of "lettah" [sic] running throughout.In the end, "Secret Messages" is a highly enjoyable piece of work with some true essential gems--very much worth discovering if you perhaps haven't heard it in many years. Make sure you get the bonus track fortified reissue though, because this older CD, for whatever reason, doesn't contain the song "Time After Time", and that's a noteworthy loss in my book. | 34 stars
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AC/DC still the best
What can I say? AC/DC are the monsters of rock and show it time and again. Stiff Upper Lip is classic AC/DC: in your face, hard, bluesy, pure rock and roll! Brian Johnson sounds as great as ever, as does Angus on lead guitar. Rock on! | 45 stars
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Thumbs up!
Fantastic video and audio quality in this version! Digital copy provides iPod and PC formats for portable viewing. Glad I got this! | 45 stars
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Sergio Mendes .... meet Herb Alpert!
I read all the great reviews, and decided to spring for this album. After all it is the release that put Sergio Mendes "on the map." I liked the album for the most part, but boy did it have Herb Alpert's fingerprints all over it (and not always in a good way).The Best:The first song ("Mais Que Nada")is a classic - and is a great song. Amazing how realistic the recording is as well, it is if the band is right in front of you - until the studio fade out at the end, which was rather jarring considering how much the great recording can fool you. Still a wonderful song.The Worst:Second song "One Note Samba" which was one of my favorites on Brasil '65. It was sped up and jazzed up a bit (Herb) then it was INTERSPICED WITH THE DATING GAME THEME SONG (incidentally by Herb Alpert and featured on his hit album _Whipped Cream_). Yikes! Can you say cheesy? In the late 1960's perhaps not, but now it sounds really dated, campy and cheesy. This song, while not ruined entirely, was brought to the brink if you were anywhere near a traditionalist for Brasilian music.The Rest:There were some covers (Fool on the Hill, and others), and another song _The Joker_ that was good. Also had some other Brasilian pop-ified music. All in all, pleasant, but had Herb's fingerprints on most of the tracks. Some worked out OK, some DID NOT.Summary:Recording quality and mastering is absolutely first rate! If you have a good to great stereo system you will appreciate the skill in the recording and remastering that was done. This was 5/5For the music, aside from the first song, the rest was average to cheesy since they Herb-Alpertized the album somewhat unsuccessfully. (Meaning his style and Samba don't quite go together in my opinon, after listening to this one).For someone who wants Sergio Mendes mainstream-ized music _Equinox_ is a good pick. Pick that up first. Then get this one. It is worth it, but don't expect it to be as well produced as _Equinox_! | 23 stars
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Telstar, Wingtips, Madmen...
Fantastic Voyage, Ursula Andress, AM Radio, Sean Connery, Paisley, Man From Uncle...In short, Burt Bacharach represents pop culture of the 1960's. At it's apogee. Like a moon shot Bacharach's gorgeous melodies and Hal David's brilliant lyrics spanning the decade from the Blob to Movie of The Week. From Bobby Vinton to the Age of Aquarius. Sock Hop to Woodstock.Essential: Frankie Valli, Beach Boys, Beatles, Stones, Airplane, Sinatra... Bacharach.Great music of... and beyond... it's era. Timeless... as long as Anyone Has A Heart and The World Needs Love.This is MUSIC. Orchestral, composed, inspired.Genius. | 45 stars
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Definitely Worth It
Pink's album is just the thing to get you going in the morning, accompany you on a morning jog, help you last during bus rides, car rides, or study halls, wind you down at night, and get your parties started. From fast to slow, upbeat to downcast, and great to better, this album has it all. The tunes, lyrics, and of course Pink's voice are all really good, and this is an album I for one would definitely recommend. | 45 stars
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A Must Have for a Moody Blues Fan
What an excellent choice to use the Moodies music theme of Nights in White Satin in reference to the caves. I discovered the Moodies 33 years ago and they never fail to surprise me with their talents. Although our IMAX Theater doesn't have Amazing Caves yet, I can only imagine the scenes to the music of the Moodies. This is another wonderful piece for this band. I would also recommend War of the Worlds and the wonderful voice of Justin Hayward for your collection. Amazing Caves will be timeless as is with all of the Moody Blues music!!! | 45 stars
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Brutal death metal... Egyptian style
Having never heard of Nile before and finding this cd in the clearence bin of a local store the other day, I was blown away at the treasure I had found. I was caught by surprise not only at the sheer technicality and blistering speed of the musical onslaught, but also that it is often accompanied by convincingly egyptian-sounding riffs, acoustics, and (what sounds like) horn instruments. This is very origional, creative stuff! The lyrics in the booklet even come with lengthy detailed notes of fascenating educational material concerning egyptian mythology(!). Oh hell yes. If I ever have kids, I will seriously raise them on this stuff.This album holds COLOSSAL replay value. Especially in the tracks "Execration Text", "Sarcophagus", "Unas Slayer of the Gods" and the almost completely instrumental, "In Their Darkened Shrines part 1: Hall of Saurian Entombment". The only weakness I think, is that some the vocals are a tad too low, and thats it. This is an incredible album for any death metal enthusiast. | 45 stars
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indie rock at its best, a worthy 5-star
When it comes to creating sonic ambience, exercising inner demons, revealnig the most tender feelings ,and mixing exotic musical styles and influences, few artists come close to Tom Waits; the boys from Firewater came pretty damn close, very very close. The record opens with two powerful tracks: "Some Strange Reaction" and "Bourbon and Division". The two openers have a near perfect mixture of rock, folk and Eastern European influences. The first two tracks are like a squeaky old elevator that takes you down to a dark, bleak, industralized but nevertheless romantic underground world. The songs in this disk celebrated loveable losers, weird characters, the beauty and the tranquillity in the most unlikely places, spirituality of atheists, hope from despairs, and all the insignificant details of the world ignored by the pop culture. A very good CD indeed, highly recommended. If you enjoy this CD, may I also suggest Mule Variation by Tom Waits and Malediction by Botanica. | 45 stars
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Understand what you are listening to.
this is most likely the most fractaled FZ CD. most people either love it, or hate it. And, considering who made it, is pretty interesting.. when you think about it, people either love or hate FZ, but to further divide up the fanbase into a 'I love this CD or Hate this CD' is even more splicing and dicing.I love the CD. The multi theme'd product may be hard for some people to understand or follow, and some of it is stabbing in the direction of dada... but one should remember that FZ himself admired the concept of dada (look in his autobiography for evidence) and considered it a viable artform... so, the fact that some of the material might not make total sense, or that there are mulithemes going everywhere at once should not be that much of a detraction ... consider Joe's Garage as a warm up for this release...The music is quite good. Some of the reviews I have read, must be talking about something else. There is some fantastic music, 'white man burden' and 'Wistful Wit A Fist-Full' are some of the songs that are written in broadway musical style.. not guitar oriented rock style like other FZ releases. And, considering the dada tendency, there are updates, and story lines which one could read in the CD release, plus songs like 'Mammy Theme' and 'Galoot update' bring you along as a whole, to reduce the massive theme into bite size nuggets.The piece is not good if you only listen to one track. There is hardly a single to be found... just as 'Another Brick In The Wall' may have been a very good single for Pink Floyd 'THE WALL' recording, by itself it didn't tell you the whole story of the wall, just that particular part of the story. But, as far as radio play, it is odd that FZ did have a radio friendly song he did have one with 'white man burden'. A great song, by any FZ era of release, this song holds big time cues for excellence in broadway style and vocal arrangement. (FZ was NEVER recognized for his arrangement of vocals, he was just excellent at his placement of voice)This is a great release. Top ten in the caibur of FZ releases. I think anyone can find as MUCH AS THEY WISH in this release. All they have to do is look. | 45 stars
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What ever became of Grant?
I remember Red, White, and Bluegrass--I have 2 of their records and wish more were available on disc. I have enjoyed FG for a year or so now and thought that Ginger had a new disc available and am hoping soon I will be able to find it. | 45 stars
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"TIMBO THE KING, BRANDY THE QUEEN..."
Despite the disappointing sales of 25-year old Brandy's 4th Album, this goes out as one of the most underrated albums. Although this isn't my favourite album of Brandy's, "Never Say Never" being my favourite, this has to be one of the most influential, and personal albums I have ever heard. All the songs on this album are exceptionally great, something that is difficult to find in R&B music these days. AFRODISIAC, 'Afro' referring to the Urban sound the album has, heads off with the most personal track on the album entitled 'Who I Am'. Unlike other albums, the first track is Mid-Tempo. The lyrics to this track are so original, and so honest. "I tried to make me love ya, I tried to make me stay, but everytime I tried myself and I got in the way...My heart is open like a book, and everything he eats I cook..." The title track is then followed showing a different, a more sexier side to Brandy. Out of all the songs on the lbum, Afrodisiac grabs the listener's attention the most, causing him or her to just love the song; concidentally, it is also one of Brandy's favourite. This album in particular, though beat-heavy driven, changes its mood and sound gradually throughtout the album. Although Timbaland contributed to 60% of the tracks, Kanye West also laced her with two: the first single 'Talk About Our Love' and a T.I. collaboration entitled 'Where You Wanna Be'. Ballads have been Brandy's highlights in her music career, and this album has only three. Nevertheless, Afrodisiac IS a true reflection and definition of who Brandy really is. Vocally and lyrically, she has reached her highest limit. The scratchiness in her voice is appealing to hear, and her rich voice has truly developed. One of the downfalls on this album is the tracklisting, and the flow of the album. But what makes this album excellent and one of the juiciest listens of 2004 is the fact that Brandy dosen't follow trends, she makes them. She wants to make good R&B records and albums, not to sell millions of copies of bad material. And she took her time to ensure that this album truly was her. But due to lack of promotion, sales were not outstanding. Still, this album is loved by all because Brandy is indeed a true artist, and this is indeed a splendid and well-organized LP. As Timbaland puts it in one of the album's higlights 'Who Is She 2 U', "Brandy [is] the Queen!" | 45 stars
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Nevermind the bullocks -- here's Nirvana
nirvana (noun) - a place or state characterized by freedom from or oblivion to pain, worry, and the external world.grunge (noun) - dirt, filth, rubbish; something of inferior quality; trash.The 1980s were one big, immoral popularity contest. Never mind the quality - if it was "in," people wanted it. While hard rock had dominated most of the 1970s, the 80s were all about pop: artists like Michael Jackson, Phil Collins, Lionel Ritchie, and Whitney Houston. By 1980, punk rock, which began in the mid-70s, had evolved into "new wave," spawning groups like Tears for Fears and A Flock of Seagulls. Meanwhile, rock titans like Neil Young seemed to have lost all the edginess that made them so attractive; Bob Dylan stumbled through the decade, fashioning a couple great albums and releasing a much greater number of duds. Music aficionados were forced to ponder the direst of ponderings: was rock dead?Whether rock was dead or alive, Nirvana rejuvenated it and brought it back to the forefront, nearly stopping pop in its place. The world hadn't heard anything so ferocious and reeling with pained awareness since the days of the Sex Pistols, and for a world still feeling hungover from the superficial craze of the 1980s, it was a welcome wake-up call. Nirvana actually emerged at the end of the 80s, led by lead vocalist and guitarist Kurt Cobain and also featuring Krist Novoselic on bass and, initially, Chad Channing on the drums. They released their debut, "Bleach," in 1989, produced and recorded for a mere $600 on the Sub Pop label. It sold roughly 6,000 copies. When the band heard that Sub Pop was going to become a subsidiary for a major label, they decided to "cut out the middleman" and were signed to Geffen Records. "Grunge" music, the murky indie-alternative rock played by groups like Soundgarden, Alice in Chains, or, more famously, Pearl Jam, was on the verge of becoming popular. Geffen executives hoped Nirvana could find some fame as one of the better grunge bands. They hoped to sell 250,000 copies of Nirvana's second effort, 1991's "Nevermind," earning a "Gold" certification from the RIAA (Recording Industry Association of America). The band themselves didn't really care.When the record was released in late 1991, MTV's late night music video showcase "120 Minutes" began playing "Smells Like Teen Spirit," the album's lead single. Soon it became so popular that the network began playing it during the day. The album appeared on the Billboard 200 at #144, and in November of '91 it entered the Billboard Top 40 at #35. Half of the initial U.S. pressings went to the northwest, where the album quickly sold out and was unavailable for days. Around the rest of the country, the album began selling so quickly that none of Geffen's marketing strategies could be enacted. Finally, in January of 1992, Nevermind hit #1 on the Billboard Top 40. At that time, it was selling roughly 300,000 copies per week.Critical response to the album was decidedly mixed. Rolling Stone gave it 3 out of 5 stars, saying, "If Nirvana isn't onto anything altogether new, Nevermind does possess the songs, character and confident spirit to be much more than a reformulation of college radio's high-octane hits." On the other hand, Robert Christgau, the so-called "Dean of American Rock Critics," gave the album an A. "This is hard rock as the term was understood before metal moved in - the kind of loud, slovenly, tuneful music you think no one will ever work a change on again until the next time it happens," Christgau wrote.That's exactly what "Nevermind" is: a hard rock, post-punk album picking up where the punk groups of the 1970s left off. It's harder now to understand just what an impact it had upon its release. Nirvana's sound has been imitated countless times by countless groups (Nickelback, Creed, etc. etc.), resulting in a new form of rock: grunge. When Nevermind was released at the beginning of the 90s, despite its cover art depicting a baby pursuing a dollar bill on a fishing hook underwater, it was like a generation coming up for air after being drowned in commercial, spiritless noise for a decade. Nirvana defined its generation like no other, and "Nevermind" was the crucial album of the 1990s.To really understand the album or the band, one must be familiar with its leader: the legendary, quasi-infamous Kurt Cobain. Most people are very familiar with him, due in no small part to his untimely and much-discussed death in 1994. He was born in Aberdeen, Washington, a small coastal town that looks like something out of "The Fog." Friends and family have said that he was the sweetest of children, but his teenage years were a horse of a different color. Cobain hated athletics (despite his father signing him up for the local wrestling and baseball teams, on which Cobain did quite well) and befriended a gay student, leading to taunts and bullying from Cobain's peers. He focused mostly on drawing, and kept a personal journal, in which he at one point wrote, "I am not gay, although I wish I were, just to piss off homophobes."Cobain is a rock god. He was named the greatest rock n' roll hero of all time by "NME" readers in 2006, and he remains one of the most enigmatic and fascinating personalities in the history of popular music. On the outside, he was a good-looking, hostile, roughly-dressed twenty-something; on the inside, he was fighting an endless battle against his own inner demons. The thing that separated Cobain from his similarly rude, rebellious peers was this: he cared about the world. He really did, and he wasn't afraid to admit it. Much of the immense pain in his life came from his own terror at the state of the world and, in particular, the people in it. It's evident not only from his many, many quotes, but from his songs themselves. Rough numbers like the mocking "In Bloom" or the woeful "Lithium" sound angry and reckless on top, but beneath all the anger there's immense sorrow at the state of things. The trademark punk madness, juxtaposed with sincere humanism, was one of the most appealing things about Nirvana.Then there's the lyrics themselves, penned by Cobain. While rival group Pearl Jam sang, "I take a walk outside/I'm surrounded by some kids at play/I can feel their laughter, so why do I sear?", Nirvana grumbled lines like, "When I was an alien, cultures weren't opinions," or such refrains as, "Give an inch, take a smile/Fashion shifts, fashion style/Throw it out and keep it in/Have to have poison skin." Cobain seemed to be almost rambling as he spewed out line after line of surreal poetry, and though all of it may not mean much - his bandmates attest that most of the lyrics were written within five minutes of their first performance - there sure appeared to be some sort of deeper meaning. Cobain seemed to be on to something which the rest of the public couldn't quite grasp.His lyrics wouldn't have been nearly as powerful without the music to back them up. Songs like "On a Plain" were simple enough to catch the public ear, but at the same time, the arrangement of the music added a new and very appealing depth to them. Despite his aim to wipe the earth clean of the shiny, soulless tunes of the 80s, Cobain loved pop music. In fact, "Nevermind"'s most famous song, the inescapable "Smells Like Teen Spirit" (voted the 9th best song of all time by "Rolling Stone"), was Cobain's attempt to write the perfect song. While crafting "Nevermind," he aimed to create the ultimate pop album in the vein of his heroes, the Beatles, one which was modern and catchy enough to obliterate records like Michael Jackson's "Dangerous" (number 1 on the charts at that time) but meaningful and spirited enough that the public would grow from listening to it, not step back as they had in the 80s. Of course, he wanted it to rock, too.The result was a manic, pounding, rollicking rush of intense rock music. Bassist Krist Novoselic added an oily murkiness to the tracks, keeping Cobain's edgy, buzzing guitars from taking off, much like Cobain's own darkness prevented him from ever soaring as a public figure (until his death - more on that later). The band's original drummer, Chad Channing, was fired and replaced with Dave Grohl. Where Channing just sort of rolled through each song, Grohl was like a hurricane and an earthquake in one thunderous package. When he drummed, he drummed. He didn't have the versatility or sheer prowess of drummers like Rush's Neil Peart or Stewart Copeland of the Police, but he could and did pound the hell out of those things, much like the Who's Keith Moon. In the public eye, Kurt Cobain was Nirvana, but any fan will tell you that Novoselic and Grohl were equally important, the firm, high-velocity support for Cobain's meandering surrealism.Of Nirvana's three albums, "Nevermind" is widely regarded as their masterpiece. Each of its 12 tracks are gems. It may be a testament to the album that its lead single, the aforementioned "Smells Like Teen Spirit," is probably its weakest track. That song, with others like the rambunctious "Breed," or the purposefully abysmal "Territorial Pissings,"are pure hard-rocking delights. The watery guitar on the almost ethereal "Come As You Are" is irresistible, while the surprisingly melodic chorus of "On a Plain," or the woeful breeziness of "Something in the Way," are downright ghostly. While the record may have retained that ghostliness since its release, it's certainly more haunting considering the dark circumstances of Cobain's death.There is no underlying theme on "Nevermind." It's not conceptually dense or extraodinarily creative, like "Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band." And all these years later, the abundance of Nirvana-wannabes on popular radio have numbed our ears. But if at first "Nevermind" doesn't seem particularly amazing, listen to it again, and then again, and perhaps even again, and to your surprise, you will forget about all those other "post-grunge" groups out there and hear the album as the world heard it back in `91 and `92. What makes "Nevermind" so wonderful is, in part, its story: after all, Cobain and his crew had no intentions of blowing the world away when they released the album. Then there's the music. "Nevermind" is the sound of a band that had something to say, said it, and had a pretty good time saying it too. It's rowdy, but aware (painfully so, at times); visceral, but sophisticated. It's amazing that a genre so inherently ugly, punk, can turn out to be so wise and beautiful. And punk was never more beautiful than Nirvana.Truly, Nirvana could have been the best and biggest band since the Beatles. Although the Beatles' debut was a piece of pop perfection, it took them five more albums to craft a genuinely brilliant record. Nirvana's debut, on the other-hand, was a nasty, black snake of a record, far from brilliant, but certainly promising. It took them only one more album to generate a masterpiece, though, and their next album, "In Utero," was similarly great. "In Utero" is, perhaps, structurally and conceptually deeper than "Nevermind," and it sounds more like the rough, vomitific rock of "Bleach" than the shiny yet slimey rock of "Nevermind" (a sound which the band often expressed their disapproval with). But "Nevermind" was their masterpiece, a perfect rock record that spoke to millions of people. If one considers that all this was done within the course of three albums, it's breathtaking to think what the group may have done had not Cobain been killed.So if the band could've been so great, what happened? Well, although Nirvana was the pride and joy of American listeners around 1992, when "In Utero" was released in 1993, the public was losing interest. "In Utero" was an album that intentionally challenged its listeners, and considering that most listeners were just getting familiar with its predecessors, that was a challenge they weren't willing to accept. On top of that, the public was getting sick of Cobain's seemingly incessant depression and disregard for his fans. He was becoming more and more alienated by the band's sudden popularity, too. 1994 found Cobain seeking a divorce from his wife, Courtney Love (the public frequently called "Cobain & Love" the new "Lennon & Ono"), and even planning to disband Nirvana.Then he was killed. The public went mad. Suddenly everyone loved Nirvana again, and everybody always had. They were brilliant. Cobain was immortalized, trapped forever as the dark, troubled 27-year-old lead of one of the greatest bands of all time. A nation grieved for one of its most promising and talented youth. How did he die? Suicide, officially. The most popular rock music conspiracy is that Cobain didn't kill himself: he was murdered. He and his band are still discussed in this day, and truthfully, if he hadn't died such a sudden and shocking death, they might not have been remembered so fondly.Regardless of the history, Nevermind is one hell of an album. "Rolling Stone" ranked it #17 on their list of the 500 Greatest Albums, commenting, "His [Cobain's] slashing riffs, corrosive singing and deviously oblique writing, rammed home by the Pixies-via-Zeppelin might of bassist Krist Novoselic and drummer Dave Grohl, put the warrior purity back in rock & roll." It was ranked the second best album ever on VH1's list (behind the Beatles' "Revolver"), and has ranked toward the top of countless other "all-time best" lists. Deservedly so. This is truly one of the finest records ever cut, so fine that it almost single-handedly murdered our nation's obsession with pop. Unfortunately, Nirvana ended too soon to complete their mission, and so we remain a nation terrifyingly conscious of trashy pop and sickeningly unaware of the good stuff, the real music - stuff like this. | 45 stars
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WOW
this cd is the greatest. i first saw a little bit of them on mtv when they were doing that whole emerging artist things and thought "oh whatever, they probly just sound like every other pop rock act out there." but then i saw the video for "blueside" and was just like "i must have this cd." i got it today and love it so much. i would recommend this for anyone who likes the beatles or that kind of 60s pop rock music. this is probably the best cd i have gotten since buying weezer's "pinkerton" six months ago. buy this now. | 45 stars
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Awesome
Jaci's CD IS AWESOME! MY FAVORITE SONGS ARE CHILD OF MINE AND GOD SO LOVED! THIS CD IS WONDERFUL!I ENCOURAGE EVERYBODY TO BUY THIS CD! | 45 stars
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The beginning of modern king crimson
This album is, like many other king crimson releases, almost completly unprecedented. This album combines their early metal with their polyrhythmic rock of the eighties. They also continue with their pop trend. Basically, there are 6 instrumental tech metalish peices with many twists and complexities, sandwiched in between very catchy pop songs. This is a style which has continued to this day. This is why I call it the beginning of modern king crimson. Although king crimson has made pop and long instrumental metal peices before this, this album does them differently. The metal peices are twisted and convoluted, and the pop is more direct. This album features the double trio, a short lived idea where there were two on each instrument, which allowed for extra complexities. The main problem with this approach, in my personal opinion, is that it wasn't done to the degree that it ought to have been. Of course, going too far would certainly have alienated some fans, but a six peice band could theoretically play way more complex music then this. Most people would not guess that there are 2 drummers or 2 bassists. If I had my way on this album, I would have not shown any restraint on the tech metalish songs, but rather let the musicians release a fury of sound. That said, there is no major flaw in the music on this album. It is creative, complex, catchy, and contains sweet grooves. The title track is particularly cool, including the drum intro b'boom. I wish King crimson would make more of these type of tracks, featuring solos or duos leading into a main track like this. Another favorite of mine is the song "one time". Overall, if you like modern king crimson or if you have an open mind, check this out. Do not make this your first king crimson experiance, though. I would reccommend that you start with a compilation over all of king crimson so you know what you are getting when you pick up your first full length. | 45 stars
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One of the great rap classics
This is the signature album from LL Cool J, who may someday go down in history as the longest surviving and most successful rapper ever. LL's ability to display multiple personalities without making himself contradictory or hate-worthy is truly a special gift that few, if any, other rappers have. The title track from this album is one of rap's classic anthems, and "Around The Way Girl" is simply one of the best summer jams that's ever been made. | 45 stars
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One of the best live bands
When I first heard this record it didn't strike me. The single was great but what about the rest? Over time it has turned out to be a great record that I want to go back to again and again. The record is deep. They have expanded the sound from the time of Lack of Communication. The Von Bondies have always delivered the good live. This is their first truly great record. | 45 stars
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great album
SACD sounds even better. She's been trying different styles collaborating with musicians of different genre. but this is by far her best album. it suits her voice. i wish she would make more albums like this. | 45 stars
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Best CD I have purchased in a long time!
I had been hearing Chris Rice songs on our local radio station, but did not know who he was until recently(you know how radio stations play lots of songs, but don't tell you who the artists are? ). Anyway, what initially attracted me to his music was his James Taylor-esque voice(yes, I'm a Baby Boomer!*L*)and I have thought many times, I have *got* to get one of his CD's! This past Friday night I did just that and have been playing it steadily through the weekend. His Christian message is soul-full and his delivery is smooth, gentle and just makes me feel hopeful and at peace. Last night I placed an order on Amazon for his other CD "Past The Edges".....I can't wait until it arrives! Give yourself a gift and get some Chris Rice music ASAP! | 45 stars
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garbage with good sound
I have always liked Rage's music but their political views are too screwed up for me to be able to listen to them anymore. I was extremely embarrased to support this gang of commie losers by actually buying the album. Why can't they just get rid of the "I hate America" attitude and play music. If they don't like it, they can go live somewhere else. Let's see how they like it in say....South Africa! | 01 star
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Blue Train!!!
This is the classic recording by tenor saxophonist, legend, John Coltrane. The one that put him on the map. He had a couple of good session dates before this one, but it wasn't until Trane released Blue Train, that people saw that, after being a vitol member in the Miles Davis Quintet, he could go out on his own, and make pivitol recordings.He beautifully demonstrates his big huge warm style here, and with the help of his cohorts, Lee Morgan, a growing trumpet figure, on trumpet, Curtis Fuller, on trombone, the underrated Kenny Drew, on piano, one of the most recorded jazz bassits of all time, Paul Chambers, and the legendary Philly Joe Jones, on the drums.The cd, of course, opens up with the classic, Blue Train. Trane arranged all the horn parts pretty well, as every horn man is playing in a different key. Good harmonies!!! Moments Notice, is such a beautiful song, and Lazy Bird is great.Coltrane plays great with Lee Morgan and Curtis Fuller. They all blend and match eachother beautifully. This was a classic recording 45 years ago, and it still is today. Coltrane will go down in the book, for being one of the most important saxophone figures, in jazz, of all time! | 45 stars
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Fantastic Jazz
The more I listen to this set, the more I like it. Basically, this set is a collection of five Atlantic albums with only a few bonus tracks. If you already own the albums, there's probably little reason for purchasing this set. However, if not, or if you're new to Mingus, this is a great place to start.The last disc, interviews with Mingus, is fairly interesting to listen to once. | 45 stars
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Real music from Real musicians
This album is ridiculously good. Not just 1, 3, 4, 9, and 10 (all of which happen to be my favorites) but every song. Bodi Profit has a little flavor for everyone. Behind the amazing vocals and awesome music, are words that relate to us all. Definitely a powerful and very enjoyable CD. If you don't own one, your seriously missing out. | 45 stars
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A Hurried Collection
O' Brother was put together with great care. There are great artists here - this is not their best work! A rush for the buck! | 01 star
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another e40 classic the world will sleep on
e40 keeps putting out good cd's but if you don't go pop the world ain't trying to hear you still e40 fans and rapheads who know something about the real street stuff know what time it is. | 45 stars
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As Wild as it Looks
Before the Metalliclones began their bay-area thrashing, rock's original Gallagher brothers (confusion with a band like Oasis might net you a black eye) were absolutely stirring things up across the water. Most metalheads who want to try Raven will be doing so after having been introduced to the style by later bands, and as such, it's useful to talk about Raven in terms of later acts. The closest approximation would be some amalgam of Dave Mustaine and Axl Rose - think "Peace Sells" meets "It's So Easy," add a healthy dose of humor, and you'll have "Lambs to the Slaughter." Raven's unpretentious brand of "athletic rock" (their term) is a welcome burst of musical yang, particularly in light of the current "nu"-metal's seeming fixation on the depressing plight of existence. Raven offers a blood-curdling motorcycle ride through early metal; the song titles and the album cover here are perfect guides to the music within. For what it tries to be, this album achieves its goal as perfectly as is possible. | 45 stars
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A great CD
I really like this cd. I think it is better than white pony but not as good as adrenaline. I also think that this cd has the best guitar riffs than both of their other cd's. They are my favoritest band in the whole entire world....and everyone needs to buy all of their cd's.The only song I don't really like is mascara but once i get into that song i start to like it.also.....chino looks sooooooo hot in some of the pictures in the cd cover thingy that you pull out or whatever....BUY THIS CD | 45 stars
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Just to set the record straight
One of the first ECM releases was indeed a Jan Garbarek album, but it was *Afric Pepperbird,* in 1970. *Dis* is Garbarek's seventh album for Herr Eicher and is clearly the beginning of all his subsequent, meditative stylings. Those who like that sort of thing will find this the sort of thing they like. | 34 stars
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Dave Really Is "Some Devil"
I have been, since meeting my wife, a fan of the Dave Matthew's Band. I have seen them live several times, and have always immensely enjoyed their shows. So I was a little befuddled when my wife informed me that Dave Matthews was releasing a solo album. I couldn't understand how his style would be any different than the music he makes with "his" band.And then I listened to "Some Devil"....and I understood.Dave Matthews, a brilliant lyricist, guitarist and songwriter, nails his first solo album with a style that is as fresh, new and unique as anything he has ever done with the DMB (Dave Matthews Band). He takes risks, attempting topics, ideas, and musical sounds that are new and unique, and sometimes a little off mainstream.I admire this album as a whole for several reasons. 1.) Dave Matthews, an icon in the alternative/rock industry, remains faithful to his craft by not writing overtly commercial music, but rather remaining true to the things that move him, and it shows in his songs. 2.) With this album, he does not attempt to re-create anything that even remotely resembles the DMB, but instead features a whole new array of musical sound, often blending a string orchestra with edgy, raw guitar and driving rhythmic drums to give us a feeling that Dave Matthews is trying to take us to a whole new place with this album.My cynical side edged its way to the surface when I first heard (and saw) the video for his first single from the "Some Devil" album; "Gravedigger". Of all the pieces on the album, I would say that this piece is the most mainstream, appealing to those in the industry who need an angle to market this album. It sounded good, but definitely not as ecletic as some of Dave's material, and so I gave pause before opening up to the song (which has since become one of my favorites). If Dave is guilty of writing a "commercial" piece to promote his album, I certainly don't mind, for "Gravedigger" (which in itself is a very moving and thought provoking piece) entices the listener, making them want to hear more-and-as good as "Gravedigger" is, its only the tip of the very rich and deep iceberg that Dave has set upon the world.Stylistically, the album is at once alternative rock, blues, folk, R&B, and an undefined sound of guitar, bass, strings, drums and voice, with lyrics that are poetic, lyrical, deeply personal and honest. Dave transcends the marketing that so many musicians succumb to and gives us an honest effort, for which he should be praised.Some of the more moving tracks on the CD include songs like: "So Damn Lucky", a song that is really the opposite of what the title suggests-really deals more with tragedy of a man who is killed in the throes of a car accident; "Save Me", a present day re-telling of Christ's ordeal in the desert and the devil's efforts to tempt him; "Some Devil", a look through Dave's eyes at dealing with the demons of losing someones love; "Stay Or Leave", similar to "Some Devil", a song about a lover lamenting over the fear of losing his partner and the choice she will make; "Oh", a beautiful song about the power of love despite unbeatable odds; "Gravedigger" (full band and acoustic versions (tracks 3 and 14, respectively), a haunting reflection on the brevity of life and the impact of death on those who experience it.All fourteen tracks of this album, as with all of Dave's music, remains true to his artisty and is a completely fulfilling experience. For those lucky enough to purchase the limited edition CD, a second disk is included that features five tracks with Tim Reynolds, a virtuoso guitarist and friend to Dave Matthews. Listen, enjoy, and experience music as it is meant to be-not a commercial product, but an honest journey into a man's soul, full of a personal beauty not often found in today's major artists. | 45 stars
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Another great album from oasis
This album is an amazing rock and roll record, especially Gas Panic, Go Let it Out, and Put Yer Money where your mouth is. This almu got 3 stars from Rollingstone but thats ridulous, the songs are too good. Granted, its not a 5 star classic like the first two, but like Be Here Now, it's very underrated. The Songs are more intimate,just listen to the way the music intertwines with the words to create an emotional climax on Gas Panic! Even "I can see a liar" is better with each listen. Fans that bag on oasis need to get a life and admit that Noel Gallagher is one of the last great rock and roll artists of the century. Accusing Oasis of sounding like the Beatles is stupid;it's like getting angry at the Rolling Stones "Paint it Black" because it used a sitar like the Beatles "Norwigean Wood"! | 34 stars
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5 Star
I'm in my 40's and have follwed the band since they debuted on American Bandstand IN 1971. This has to be about there best work . Even though I still listen to the modern music it's there first 4 albums that were there best work. This is a not to be passed over Album. | 45 stars
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Gang Starr's best work.
Gang Starr really put out some classic ish here. This is one of those albums that you may dismay as being sub-par, or even bad first listen if you arn't into underground, but you soon relize how this album is a gem. DJ Premeir, and Guru have been putting out classic material sence the late 80's, with there first full album "No More Mr. Nice Guy". Premo is widely regaurded as one of the finest producers to ever grace the boards in hip hop history, and his partner in crime Guru is known as The King Of monotone Rap.This is artistically a incredible peice of work. Guru & Premo put out a style of Rap that wasnt commen in the 90's, and is non-existant now! A Minimalistic Producer known for playing a melody of three keys, and a obsession for scratching teaming up with a monotone soft spoken slow tempo rapper. Sound like a weird combonation right? Wrong... If Being a Hip Hop duo was a marrige Gang Starr would have been couple of the year for 10 years straight. This is the type of album you have to spend some time listening to, sure I have my favorite songs of the batch, but they are all solid, and the way Premo mixed together the songs, and even transitions is strokes of genius. Sure you can listen to "Im the man" 5 times, but you will get the full effect of "Im The Man" in the way Gang Starr men't for you to hear it if you listen to the tracks leading to it.Everything seems timed perfectly. Strong in your face, phony rapper, and conspiracy theorys come in at the proper time for a full listen thru. The Interludes are also excellently timed. After hearing "Im The Man" you want something a little chill, & relax, so Premo follows it up with "92 Interlude" a soft short, but sweet 30 second paino riff. And even the intro is a great beat, than instead of it sounding like a new track they programmed it to go immediatly into the next track, cause the beats mix together. Guru lyrically is sharp, and he does not need much help, with only 2 guest appearences, and literally 2 guest appearences, sence premo controlls all the hook's with mastery Guru shows his lyrical powress, consistently spitting 30 plus bars in his monotone serious voice every track, except the interludes. In this album DJ premier seems to be the Architect, and Guru seems to be the foundation. Premier uses his mastery of beatmaking, programming, mixing, scatching, and especially sampling to construct a masterpeice around Guru's lyrics which are the foundation. Bottomline, you gotta pick this up if your a Hip Hop Head. | 45 stars
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The true single version of "Everything She Wants"
This is the only place so far where you can actually find the true single version of "Everything She Wants." It's exactly like I remembered it was on the vinyl 45 back in the '80s. (The version at over 6 minutes is actually the twelve inch version, which you can find more easily.) | 34 stars
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Amazing
I purchased this CD on here a couple days ago, came in the mail today...It's amazing!Every single track is great, no filler tracks here!This CD has made me fall in love with industrial all over again. | 45 stars
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Love it!
I already had this CD, but I misplaced it, so I bought another one. I'm a HUGE BSB fan and this album brings back so many memories! | 45 stars
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The pre-release
This is the five track pre-released promo copy. The Completion of this cd is now available with 13 tracks. Hear a sample of these songs go to the cdbaby website then type in Tameko. Two cd's will come up choose the blue one for tracks to this cd. | 34 stars
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The future of Melodic Death Metal. This is how its done boys and girls!
Scar Symmetry is Melodic Death Metal with Progressive Metal influences. So naturally you end up with a great band who has a great sound and a defining element that is there throughout all of their work.Pitch Black Progress makes you truly realize that Melodic Death Metal has really gone down hill. With only a few good releases coming out yearly out of a bunch of releases in the genre. Pitch Black Progress is NOT one of the bland, untalented, mediocre, predictable ones. This album has everything you could ask for in a Melodic Death Metal album. Great vocals with smooth transitions from Death, to melodic, good, harmonious guitar work, a great production and powerful tracks that dont put you to sleep. This album is a progression from their first release, "Symmetrical in Design". If you like bands like Unmoored (which shares the vocalist of Scar Symmetry), Beyond Fear, Illdisposed, Communic, and Insomnium then this is for you. This is Melodeath how it SHOULD be brought. Don't hesitate to put up the cash to buy this! | 45 stars
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Illmatic...Still Ill
This is possibly the greatest cd of all time. And to all those that say it is the greatest, you are correct. The delivery and beats from some top named producer really ends a massive hadn to NaS' story telling and extremely tight flow. Definitely a must have for all Hip Hop fans. | 45 stars
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