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AWESOME!
This CD takes all of Lorie's great songs and puts them all on one CD!! The 2 new songs "Toi et Moi" and "Les Ventres Ronds" are awesome and definitely fit right in with the others. | 45 stars
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Great Cd !
Nelly might not fit the image of a "rapper" so to say, but for what he does, he's GREAT! It seems like he is trying a little bit to reach a larger audience and that's a good thing! Not everyone lives in a "ghetto" you know. This cd is a great follow up to Country Grammar. Although it doesn't have the innocence of Country Grammar, you can see that Nelly has confidence. He has the energy that most performers don't have. His lyrics aren't neccessarily the best, but they're actually pretty good if you listen to them and they're catchy! If you liked CG, then take a trip to Nellyville! | 34 stars
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Finally! We have music again!!
For the first time in 20 years, I am buying something besides classical music. I loved every song on this CD. It is such a refreshing change from the "alleged music" we have been force fed for decades. There is an incredible quality about Clay Akin's voice--perhaps it is that his amazing "instrument" is able to express the goodness of his soul. I don't know. I just know that there is a 55 year old grandma who now "rock's out" full blast while cleaning cupboards and waiting at stop lights on the way to work. For the first time since 9-11, I smile spontaneously and sing to myself. Thank you Mr. Aiken and RCA for bringing music back to the world. | 45 stars
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Dirty, but Far From Cheap.
AC/DC's "Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap" was released in Australia in 1976, but it wasn't issued in America until 1981, following the great success of "Back in Black." Throughout the years, however, it's been one of the band's biggest selling albums. While I don't think it ranks as high as "High Voltage" or "Let There Be Rock," "Dirty Deeds" is certainly a fine Bon Scott record with a few great moments. The near-flawless opening title track is thunderously good, with a catchy chorus and mean riffs from Angus Young. Killer cuts also include the classics "Problem Child" and the playfully juvenile "Big Balls," as well as the blues-driven "Ride On." There is only one wince-inducing moment, "Love at First Feel," in which Bon's lust for an underage girl repelled this reviewer, but otherwise, "Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap" is a good album that sounds dirty, but far from cheap. | 34 stars
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Only 3 Stars for a 5 star album? Read on...
OK, let me start by saying that ELP's "Tarkus" album was the very first album I ever asked for as a kid, and I played this thing to death on vinyl. Interestingly enough I never snagged it on CD, until I saw the 2012 Deluxe Edition 3 CD set. Ordered it from Amazon and threw it in my CD player. Listened to the first disc, which is the original 1971 album, it is every bit as great as I remembered it. Was surprised I remember all the lyrics.Now the second disc is called "The Alternate Tarkus". I was definitely interested in hearing this...thinking "alternate" would mean perhaps an early version or alternate takes from the original album. So on the way home from work yesterday I gave the second disc a listen. What you have here is a SLIGHTLY different mix of the entire album plus 3 unreleased tracks, and when I say SLIGHTLY I do mean SLIGHTLY. Yes there are a few differences here and there in this remix but honestly (in my own humble opinion) this is NOT REALLY NEEDED! I don't need to hear a few extra seconds of talk before "Jeremy Bender" or a few extra seconds of gibberish at the end of "Are you Ready Eddie?" A couple of the tracks hardly sounded different at all from the original mixes! The two outtakes and 1 alternate version are a nice touch, but really the whole "alternate Tarkus" did not really have to be included. Why do I say this? Simply because a lot of fans/collectors who buy these deluxe editions look for more...as in more outtakes, real "alternate" versions, etc...not just a "new 2012 alternate mix" which is not that different from the original. Why couldn't Razor & Tie have included something more, perhaps a live version of "Tarkus" from this tour? (Yes I know there is a live version on "Welcome Back my Friends..." but that is taken from a different tour). I personally think a deeper look into the vaults may have yielded something than most of what's offered on this disc. And if there's not, then a single CD release of this with the extra tracks added on would have suited me just fine. I just can't help but feeling that the label really wanted to do a 3 disc set of this no matter what...or what was on it.The third disc is the DVD audio 5.1 mix of both mixes.So yeah, a 5 star album only gets 3 stars from me.Oh and I must point out, before I gave this a listen I was considering buying ELP's "deluxe edition" of the first album, but after hearing this and seeing how they have the same "alternate 2012 mix" thing on that album as well I am seriously considering not buying it. | 23 stars
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Against all odds!
Mark Heard had just finished 'Victims Of The Age' when he was told by his label that his new album wasn't accepted for immediate publication. After the success of 'Eye Of The Storm' the label was looking for more accoustic material. Since there was to be an important business meeting in about a fortnight, Mark was asked to record another album in this very short time period. That's what he did, and 'Ashes and Light' is the outcome of that enterprise: a masterpiece! Yes, he did it! The business is hard sometimes, and if it wasn't, maybe Mark Heard would still be among us! | 45 stars
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really the best
I have always been a part time fan of Bowie so I figured why not at Amazon'sprice. I didn't realize just how many Bowie songs are among my personalfavorites until plugging The Best of Bowie in the CD player. Every song isa hit for my money. This CD stayed in my car for almost a month before Imoved back to the rest of my normal rotation. A must have. | 45 stars
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Legacy Of Great Vocalists! Need to Expand CD!
'Legacy' by Boyz II Men was a decent compilation when it was first released. With only 13 tracks, I felt short changed and wasn't about to buy the new 2 disc version of 'Legacy'. I've followed Boyz II Men since 1991, and like many fans, have all of the CDs (plus non album tracks). With that in mind, I decided to create 'The Ultimate Boyz II Men Collection' that covers 1991 - 2002 perfectly. Here's the tracklisting, which results in a 80 minute single disc masterpiece...1. Motownphilly2. Uhh Ahh3. It's So Hard To Say Goodbye...4. End Of The Road (fr.'Boomerang' SDTK)5. I'll Make Love To You6. On Bended Knee7. Water Runs Dry8. One Sweet Day - Live Version! (w/Mariah)9. Doin' Just Fine10. Four Seasons Of Loneliness11. A Song For Mama (fr.'Soul Food' SDTK)12. I Will Get There (fr.'Prince Of Egypt' SDTK)13. Pass You By14. Thank You In Advance15. The Color Of Love16. That's Why I Love You17. So Amazing (fr.'The Hurricane' SDTK)BONUS TRACK 18. Sara Smile (2004)So there you have it, the Ultimate Boyz II Men on a single CD!Enjoy making this collection at home!Peace, SD(Chakasworld) | 34 stars
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LOVED IT! NEED A NEW ONE
Our daughter, now 10, loved this album. We would play it every night when we laid her down. Our tape got worn out sometime during the other two children that followed and I need a new one for our new addition. No other lullaby tape is the same. Just a great collection. | 45 stars
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Immense and Expansive
First of all, take a good look at the cover of this album, and count how many times or places you find the face of The Sleepy Jackson's frontman Luke Steele. More simply, contemplate the significance of Steele standing at the forefront, carrying who else but himself. It's perfectly fitting for the title of the album, 'Personality', but slightly indicative of something else as well. In the liner notes you'll find Steele describing the music making as an "odd flourishing flower", made throughout sessions of both beauty and turbulence from which he couldn't run away without destroying the album or even the band altogether. In any case, the resulting record produced by the imaginations of Steele and company is very immense in that it's a big step forward from their previous album, Lovers. The themes are spacious and philosophical, while the expansive element of the album is provided mainly by the ethereal 20/20 Orchestra. The production and orchestration of 'Personality' is lush and grandiose, containing brilliant melodies, catchy rhythm and interesting lyrics. There are numerous songs here that deserve mainstream play, but more importantly I would describe the album as being cohesive, strange and very dreamlike. Considering the past instability of the band, I think it's slightly premature to place huge expectations on The Sleepy Jackson's future projects just yet, but this one is definitely a gem and should be savored. It's a cool and curious album. | 45 stars
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President Alien
I am originally from Africa so my taste varies musically from hip-hop,jazz,classical through african rhythms.Getting this Cd introduced me to a whole new vibe especially if you are african in the diaspora.President alien is soulful,infectious and has an earthy afro-freshness to it.To all the new initiates this CD is a must for all people.YERBA BUENA!!!!!!!!! | 45 stars
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If you're a Michael McDonald fan.....
There are a few "BEST OF MICHAEL MCDONALD" CDs out there, but if I were to choose just one of his "Greatest hits Albums", then this CD would be the one. This CD is recorded beautifully and Michael's voice comes through smoothly. The songs are his best known hits,--- all mixed wonderfully. | 45 stars
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Clapton Vs. Himself
You can read about the history behind this album in the other reviews, but I'll tell you why it's a five-star.You can feel the intensity throughout this record. There's not one bad song in this collection, and even the covers fit in perfectly with Clapton's works. Anyone who covers Hendrix's "Little Wing" is either really stupid or really good. Clapton puts that song through a new pace and makes it his own.With the combination of Clapton's hurt, drugs, and the presence (or should I say pressure)of Duanne Allman next to him on guitar, Clapton was put into overdrive and put out a chunk of music that will never be matched, even by himself. Although his guitar playing is outstanding in Cream and BluesBreakers, on this album it sounds like he pushed his guitar and made it sound how he wanted it. You can hear how he makes it do what HE wants it to, like the energy he had just bled through it.A perfect meld of blues and rock, and a piece of history. | 45 stars
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An underappreciated gem in the Gwar catalogue
Ragnarok is the forgotten Gwar album: sandwiched between the experimental This Toilet Earth and Gwar's punkish Carnival of Chaos/We Kill Everything, Ragnarok's full-on synth-metal seems out of place. But this is brilliant, classic Gwar, and it's evident from the get-go with Meat Sandwich. Oderus sounds downright pissed on that one! There are tons of great songs on this album: Whargoul, Ragnarok, the insidiously catchy Dirty, Filthy, Stalin's Organs, Martyr Dumb..the list goes on and on. Ragnarok is also the Gwar album with the most non-Oderus songs: Sleazy has a great tune with "Think You Oughta Know This" and songs sung by Cardinal Syn, Sexecutioner, Slymenstra and Beefcake really flesh out the album. This disc brings Gwar lore back to the forefront as well, and the songs focusing on the impending doom of a comet, along with Cardinal Syn's attack, are plain fun. Overall, a return to form and a brilliant and underrated disc. One of Gwar's strongest. Highlights: just about everything. | 45 stars
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Jazz at it's best
Once again, Diane Schuur has done it. I look forward to getting more of her CD's. Whether with a small group or a big band , she fits right in | 34 stars
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Electronic Music With A Heart
This is electronic music with heart and soul. The opening music of Paul Hartzog's CD "Faces" starts out with a feeling of authenticity, as if a sincere invitation to listen. And at the same time there seems to be a tragic cry amidst a shimmering, spiritual undercurrent in the music that is a harbinger of great discoveries and adventures that lie ahead for the listener.What are these adventures? Whatever awaits to be discovered in the endless realm of the listeners imagination and heart.I received this CD as a gift and I played it without reading the song titles or liner notes. After my first listen I read the titles and liner notes and was amazed at how similar my emotional and imaginative interpretation of the music was to the sketches of a story outlined in the liner notes.Yet this is not program music with a rigid storyline, but is rather flexibly impressionistic, rich in emotional impact, and highly generative of epic tales that lie waiting in one's mind and heart to be catalyzed by the right kind of music. And all this is done with music alone - there is no singing of words on this CD.Although this is technically not classical music, Paul Hartzog seems to have a bold and creative attitude that is similar to great classical artists. In his "Faces" CD I hear impressionistic sounds that seem to suggest physical and spiritual phenomena, somewhat in the same spirit of Claude Debussy. Hartzog's music is also brimming with emotion and exoticism, which is perhaps akin to Peter Tchaikovsky's musical attitude. Hartzog's imaginative use of contrasting a variety of captivating sounds to paint vivid musical colors seems to be like the creative attitude of Nicolai Rimsky-Korsakov.This is not to say that a listener needs to have any knowledge or appreciation of classical music to enjoy and find meaning in the music of "Faces." My own musical background is largely classical music, so perhaps that's a face that I see in the music. The faces other people will see will probably depend on the musical background they bring to their listening experience of this amazing CD. And I think herein lies the greatness of this music by Hartzog - I believe that it can be appealing and meaningful to a broad range of listeners.I hate to attempt to shove this music in a box and put a label on it, for in many ways it transcends artificial musical boundaries. But to aid you in your decision to buy the CD, I offer the following guidepost: If you enjoy the creative and adventurous sounds of Tangerine Dream, Klaus Schulze, or Kevin Braheny, or if you're just a big fan of high quality music in an electronic vein, then "Faces" should be a welcome addition to your musical library. | 45 stars
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Just love it !
Totally agreed with what "st clement" comments below. I've been searching for "When I'm Gone" on and off for almost 10 years. Finally I found the album in amazon by chance. My other favorite song is "Your world and my world". They both are my all time favorite. | 45 stars
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Simply the best album ever recorded.
Gretchen Goes to Nebraska is a carefully-engineered album of unparalleled power, beauty, and musicianship. The vocals of Doug Pinnick are truly archival; there is no other vocalist in any rock genre to which one dare compare him, and he's at his finest on tracks like "I'll Never Be the Same" and "Over My Head". Drummer Jerry Gaskill lays down a base for the multi-layered harmonies of voice and string in a style reminiscent of John Bonham without being derivative in any way, and brings a truly distinctive feel to each track. Guitarist Ty Tabor's fantastic tone and tantalizing riffs can make one get lost in the music instantly, and his wonderfully-constructed and executed solos on songs like "The Burning Down" remind you why guitarists did solos to begin with. This album is a testament to the balance of power and control, and the lyrics and music go far beyond reasonable or unreasonable expectations. There is no musician who understands ! why King's X has not become the most popular band on the face of the earth, and no listener who isn't grateful each time they produce another fantastic album. I'd love to give you a band to compare them to, but it just isn't possible. One description I've heard that gets close is a combination of the Beatles, Yes, King Crimson, and Stevie Ray Vaughan. The only description I can use is perfect. Buy this album. | 45 stars
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Excellent
The soundtrack is awesome! My only complaint is the static you can hear when you turn the music up really loud. I guess since the music was originally recorded in 1988, they used an analog recording or something to convert it to CD, like when you record an old cassette tape to MP3. But that's not the composer's fault, so it still gets a 5-star rating. | 45 stars
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Great Sound
I found this band on MP3.com over a year ago and instantly I was drawn into the wonderful, thoughtfull, and powerful sound that they have. I needed more, and I bought this CD. There are very uplifting songs (One Hell of a Year), some very powerful slower songs (Tragedy Todd) and ones that will get traped inside your head (Sadie's Eyes, Voice of Elvis). Trapped Inside a Monday has been one of my five most listened to CD's in the past year. If you are fans of Counting Crows, Ben Harper, Dave Matthews and others like them; you will not be disapointed with Almost Speechless. I hope the tour the midwest sometime. I will be in line to see them for sure! | 45 stars
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Sanitize version
I have the original English version and love it. When I returned to the US I found this version and purchased. What a disappointment. The original story had intrigue, romance, betrayal, and conflict. This version had everything that might have offended the Soviet Union taken out. When the script writers were done, there was no story left. Just watched "Chess in Concert" on a DVD. It was superb! | 12 stars
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Heavy groove
When Matt Johnson penned these songs in 1988 did he have an inkling how relevant they would be 13 years later? This album starts out with a Muezzin calling Muslims out to prayer and has repeated themes of the conflicts between the world's religions.The music itself is still brilliant. With heavy bass grooves, saxes, piano, harmonica and a wailing Johnny Marr on guitar, this doesn't sound dated at all. Sinead O'Connor sings the lovely duet "Kingdom of Rain" also. Of course the only track that got radioplay in the US was "Beaten Generation". As brilliant a song as this is, this album has much more to offer.A must have! | 45 stars
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Josh Groban Brings Fans "Closer"
Josh Groban once again hits it big with the hot single "You Raise Me Up". This time around, Josh is going to get creative on his own terms.First order of business is "Mi Mancherai (Il Postino)", of which he once again performs with a violin soloist, Joshua Bell. This song is a beautiful remake of an Italian opera song, which is Josh's speciality. But yet no one would truly think him as a songwriter until they heard his deeply beautiful "Remember When it Rained" of which he played piano and sang back-up vocals, creating for himself a "Paul Simon"-esque position for himself in the music industry now.The CD introduces his voice in the traditional "Oceano" of which he begins "Piove su'll oceano" (It rained on the ocean) in such a tender voice, it would shock you in the chorus that his voice carries its own weight of emotion that he pulls in any song he does.This album also introduces Josh's curiosity in synthesizers and different sounds, as in the song "Never Let Go", which I think is very similiar to Massive Attack with Josh's ability to make those Latino octaves fly all over the place.While remembering his Italian roots, "Closer" also premieres five new (and some classic) English-sung songs that can not dish the supreme stardom "You're Still You" or "To Where You Are" brought. Michael Jackson's many timed re-done "She's Out of My Life" concludes the album with a broken heart and Groban's ability to jerk tears from any woman's eyes.My personal favorite English songs are "When You Say You Love Me" with some of the most beautiful lines contained "At times I can't move/At times I can hardly breathe", "Remember When it Rained" ["Felt the ground and looked up high and called your name"] and already released [on Josh Groban's Live Concert CD & DVD] "Broken Vow" (I'll give away my soul to hold you once again/And never let this promise end"].Snagging Andrea Boccelli's "Caruso" [of which he gives a power-house performance that would give Boccelli shivers!] and even siging the new "All'Improvviso Amore" makes this the Latin-licked "Canto Alla Vita" of this album. English or Italian, Spanish or simply Josh's creations, Josh is beginning to get more personal and "Closer" by the minute! | 45 stars
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Great vocal mechanics, excellent voice, & Emotion Too !
How's a kid this age do this?! I enjoy listening to good voices - voices that have character, strength (no, not just yelling), and a sense of ownership of the sense of the lyrics. This young singer scores on every point. I wish 10% of the "artists" on today's charts could perform at anything near this level. How does young Master Gilman feel the meaning of these songs enough to transmit them through his performance? Dismiss those that say it is simply the "cute" factor. Just about everyone will enjoy this album. I look forward to his soon-to-be-released Christmas album. If he can tackle the Christmas classics as well as he has done on his debut album, we're in for a treat this holiday season. I can imagine his XMAS singing rivaling Johnny Mathis at his early Christmas album best. | 45 stars
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Pretty good but a little bit too experimental
I think this cd is overall pretty good, but some of the songs are just too strange and there's way too many of those on this cd. however, some songs do kind of make up for this such as we love deez hoes, gasoline dreams, xplosion, and bob. they have a good style, they just need to kinda tone it down. the strangest songs on this cd are stankonia and toilet tisha. if these songs weren't on the cd and some of the skits were omitted, i would probably give it a higher rating. i would recommend that you look at this recording, but you should definately listen to it first to see what you think of it because it's really different from anything you will hear in a while. | 23 stars
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It's a grower
This is the kind of album that has to grow on you. You have to give it a little time and be patient. Coldplay isn't about manufactured jingles. You need an open ear and an open mind to really appreciate their talent. This isn't sugar Pop. It's got big arrangements and big ideas. "X&Y" ultimately succeeds because it wants to be something. | 45 stars
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Not for the casual fan
The original Boy album is a great CD and the remastering is well done here with a lot of muddled aspects of the original cleaned up. But this deluxe 2CD set is definitely not for the casual fan and not worth the money. The second disc has only noteworthy moments. The early versions of "Stories for boys" and "Out of control" are interesting for a true U2 fan. As is the song "Saturday night". But "Boy-girl" and "Cartoon world" are horrible. The live version of 11 O'Clock Tick Tock is forgettable. Basically, this 2CD set offers interesting insight into the beginnings of U2. But for the casual fan, I would recommend buying the single disc, since even I, a big U2 fan, will not be throwing the second disc in the player all that often. | 23 stars
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AWESOME!
A Maze of Grace is an awesome CD with great lyrics. You can tell that they love the Lord and Testify to Love (a song) really got me thinking. It is a great CD that everyone should listen to! | 45 stars
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BIG disappointment
when i found out that ozzy was coming out with a box set i was excited.until i got it i was very disappointed when i listened to it the re-remastered songs are terrible(should have left the originals)but there are a few gems in this setlike some of the demos however the song with lita ford(close my eyes forever) should have been included in the box set.you would be better off taking the money you will spend on this and wipe your butt with it.ozzy you should have done a better job next time PLEASE do not do another box set! | 12 stars
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Deliciously funny!
I saw her live in this role... She was the funniest Fiorilla ever! An enchanting must for every operalover! | 45 stars
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The boys from New Jersey change there sound again.
I am slowly getting around to reviewing all of Bon Jovi's albums.I believe one of the reasons that Bon Jovi has survived 25 plus years are they are very good at adapting there sound and lyrics to be relevant to the time while also being able to have there album's stand the test of time.Very few musical acts can pull that off.I feel this album is a good example of that.If your looking for an album that sounds like there other albums prior or post this is not for you.This album is in my opinion there most cohesive.It is a modern rock album with a wall of sound feel that dose not allow for the musicians to shine individually but puts them together to create a sonic wave that is meant be cranked.The lyrics are mostly upbeat lyrics and John's voice comes across clearly.This is one of my favourite Bon Jovi album's and I have either listened to them all or currently own them. | 34 stars
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Mixed review!
I bought this for my daughter for Christmas. I think it is the most darling video she owns, BUT, my child is not as thrilled by it as I am. She did enjoy it; however, she does not ask for it repeatedly, as she does some of her other DVDs. Still, I cannot bring myself to give it a bad review because of how much I liked it. It is adorable and educational. | 34 stars
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The Broadways...
The Broadways are easily said the best band that i have ever heard. There meaningful lyrics and strong melodic music combined shows how good they really are. I have both broken van and broken star and I listen to it everyday and i have listened to it for a year now i have never gotten sick of it. If you like good music then i suggest that you purchase all the Broadways albums. You wont regret it. | 45 stars
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A MUST HAVE - You'll be "SATISFIED" with RM'S GREATEST HITS
Without a doubt, this became my favorite, most frequently played CD from the day I owned it!! Everyone is bound to recognize at least a handful of favorites in this greatest hits collection!! This compilation of 16 hits is so musically and emotionally pleasing. Richard Marx's music reaches a place within the human heart and soul that can't be matched by any other. It's a rare find when an artist consistently writes and records amazing music with a common connection to people from all walks of life. Richard Marx's "Greatest Hits" is worth more than it's weight in gold...you won't be disappointed!! Ballads, rock, pop and R&B are all represented well and will satisfy music lovers from all genres!! | 45 stars
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Back in the day when reality used to bite...
In 1994 it was a total surprise to hear this awesome, yet-underground hit song; everything was alternative or "Nirvana-oriented" and I really was kinda fed up with that... then Lisa's extraordinary voice brought us that magnificent song with marvelous lyrics and killer tunes. "Stay" is one of the few songs that always makes me smile and remember those crazy 90's. Don't miss the opportunity to have one of pop music's trully wonders!. | 45 stars
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I echo the sentiments regarding Rod's faltering voice.
Rod Stewart shouldn't do an album like this. Though many stars can cross over from the sound that made their name, Rod isn't one of them. And this album of pop and jazz standards just comes off as an oddity, more curious than good.He should be singing "Downtown Train" or "Infatuation," not songs better suited to Harry Connick, Jr. or Frank Sinatra. I know that, since his surgery, his voice isn't quite as capable of the power it used to contain, but these songs are hard to do well - and Rod's efforts, though noble, do neither he nor the music on this album the justice they deserve.There are some high points, but he's not able to sustain long notes on most of the songs, which harms the tempo as well as the tone. | 12 stars
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The Kingsmen do it Again
CD tells great 'stories in song' the way and only way a Kingsmen could do it. | 45 stars
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Hard swinging and hard to believe it's a studio album!
I cannot count how many times I've listened to this album and always assumed that it was live. When I finally discovered that it was recorded in a studio my jaw dropped. The sheer energy and power must have fried the recording console.Each track swings and swings hard. However, there is a quality to the last track - "Pensativa" - that touches my soul in some ineffable way. One unique aspect of this album for me personally is although I am a drummer I don't care much for Blakey's style of drumming. Not that Blakey isn't one of the greats because he is, but I am more drawn to the likes of Ed Thigpen, Connie Kay, Frankie Dunlop and similar drummers. However, there is something about Blakey's explosive drumming on this album that does appeal to me. I cannot put my finger on it, but he manages to inspire me with his playing here.With Wayne Shorter on tenor and Freddie Hubbard on trumpet I am naturally drawn to the album. This is not my absolute favorite Jazz Messenger line-up, but it does rank up there. The other members comprising this particular 'edition' had been together for nearly three years, which may account for the energy leaping out from the album. For the record the other members on the recording are Cedar Walton on piano, Reggie Workman on bass, Chris Fuller on trombone and, of course, Art Blakey on drums.For a studio album this captures a rare energy (and synergy) for any ensemble (not just the Jazz Messengers), and is one of the hardest swinging albums any edition of the Messengers cut - in or out of the studio. | 45 stars
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moments of spectacular songwriting
Update September 19, 2011Alright, perhaps Easter is better than I originally thought. A closer inspection reveals that making comparisons to Horses is probably unnecessary, especially since both albums don't really resemble each other in sound at all. Horses is all about showcasing Patti Smith's vocal range and her lyrical creativity to new heights while taking old-fashioned rock ideas and completely reinventing and extending them, whereas Easter is more stripped down, aggressively closer to the style of punk on some occasions while on others combining gospel and more simplistic songwriting. Not really the same thing at all.The New York punk scene is strongly evident throughout a good portion of Easter. I didn't notice any of this on Horses. Songs such as "Space Monkey" shows a significant improvement in Patti's lyrical writing skills with more imagination than I ever could have realized upon first listen, and "25th Floor/High on Rebellion" contains the same type of raw punk/hard rock aggression with more lyrics that were probably considered shocking back in the day (and in a way, still are now). "Rock 'n Roll N" is the perfect example of teenage rebellion. Just listen to the way Patti takes her voice and makes it screech and intimidate listeners. This particular vocal melody almost resembles the one from "Gloria" from Horses. Obviously with drastically different lyrics.On the other side however, there's a different type of music taking place here. Soft gospel numbers. Well not "soft" in the typical sense- this is still some pretty impactful songwriting lyrically with enough character from Patti Smith to assure listeners nothing especially generic is being performed. But the title song really feels like a pretty bland vocal melody by Patti Smith's standards, even though I enjoy it. It sounds like four basic notes repeating endlessly but with some beautifully chilling church bells appearing in between the verse melody. I like the song a lot though, so criticizing it for being bland is not something I feel comfortable doing. Patti knew what she was doing when she sung it. "Privilege (Set Me Free)" is a display of Patti's extraordinary vocals not to mention lyrics that seem to speak directly to God from a personal point of view."Ghost Dance" has a tribal-sounding verse melody strongly similar to that of the Doors "My Wild Love" which means it's not a very creative piece of writing. However its ability to touch some of us lyrically can't be denied so the blandness in the verse melody will get a free pass in this case. "Because the Night" is AWESOME! Best pop song ever. It deserves the radio exposure over the years and has never lost its charm either. It also features what I consider the best moment EVER of Patti Smith's career- that would be when she sings this part- "With love we sleep, with doubt the vicious cycle turns and burns, without you I cannot live forgive the yearning, burning, I believe it's time too real to feel so touch me now, touch me now, touch me noooooooooow!!!" I LOVE this part!! Sends goosebumps through my body every single time I experience it. It's not human the way she sings that line and actually makes me imagine Patti Smith on stage completely stealing the show when she sings that specific line.I suppose the moment of mediocrity appears on "We Three". It's nothing special to me. A boring verse melody and just an average song overall.I was wrong to dismiss Easter as being a watered down version of Horses. That was wrong on my part and I apologize. | 34 stars
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Face it this is a Great Album!
So many of the songs on this album were hugely successful hits and many you'll still hear at least once every couple of weeks on the radio even today. Chocolate Cake would be my favourite Crowded House song and the only reason I can see that it never made their greatest hits album was because so many of the other songs from this album were included and the record company still wanted people to sell lots of copies of Woodface. It's Only Natural, Fall at Your Feet, Weather With You and Four Seasons in One Day would easily be Crowded House's most played songs and they are all on this album. There's nothing wrong with the other not so famous tracks on this album either it's only because so many singles were sold of the other songs that customers figured out they should buy the album that the other songs didn't become hits as well.Both Australians and New Zealanders claim this band as their own so you know you can't go wrong by buying it. | 45 stars
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Elected? He's got my vote.
I took sort of a chance when I bought this album, since I wasn't too familiar with Alice Cooper and I wasn't sure if I'd like it. However, I can safely say that this album has quickly entered into my list of favorites (even though that is quite a long list). The whole thing just oozes with excitement and humor from beginning to end. The music combines elements of 1950's rock, showtunes, and heavy metal, which makes for a really unique overall sound. The first track, "Hello Hooray," may be my favorite. It is a positively awesome way to begin the album, especially the cathartic ending chorus with the thundering cannons and little bells ringing in the background. The exhilerating "Elected" is another highlight, and has enough energy for several songs. Each time the chorus comes around the instrumentation changes a bit, getting more intense each time, and then they all come together in the end for a massive fade out. Many of the songs benefit from producer Bob Ezrin's addition of orchestral strings and beefy brass parts, which only add to the energy and authenticity. I think everyone's heard "No More Mr. Nice Guy" but it must be said that this is another great track, and a really catchy tribute/parody of old time rock as well. "Generation Landslide" is the song that really sums up the whole idea of Billion Dollar Babies - youth taking over the world. The very demented "I Love The Dead" wraps up the album. This song sounds like a 50's high school prom power ballad except that it is about necrophilia. Awesome. Only Alice could have written lyrics like those found on Billion Dollar Babies and still be taken seriously, and it's really because he didn't even take himself all that seriously. That's the great thing about this music - it's just good, fun rock and roll. Who cares if Cooper sings a little off key now and then? He rocks and so does this music. | 45 stars
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Great sound quality--except for the dance mix...
As a collector of 80s 12" single mixes on CD, I was actually thrilled to see the 'dance mix' of The Smart Bomb included here--although, it isn't particularly a 'dance' re-mix, simply an extended version. However, it is blatantly mastered (barely) from vinyl. You can actually HEAR the needle dancing in the groove of the vinyl at the beginning of the song, and there is noticeable noise and hiss indicative of vinyl throughout the track. Sure it's great to have it preserved on CD either way, but it would have been nice if they could have found a clean copy of the vinyl. | 34 stars
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PHENOMENAL!!!
Well, just got it, just listened to it...And I must say that all you Load and Reload haters better finally be satisfied! Metallica is back with all their furious speed and Ulrich's extremely loud, ear piercing snare! Anyone who dogs this album should be wiped away from existence on this earth!! If you don't like this, get real, it is phenomenal and the best thing Metallica has recorded since 'Justice.' Even though I stand strongly behind 'Black Album,' 'Load' and 'Reload,' I am very glad Metallica has returned to their roots of loudness, speed and overall phenomenal songwriting. It's good to know they can still do it and do it so great! Cheers guys, can't wait to see you on tour this summer!!!!! | 45 stars
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Good but those dang birds
This CD is overall very beautiful sounding CD. I have one huge gripe that bothers me though and if repeated sounds bother you I would stay away. Every single song, I mean everyone has the same birds chirping every 5 to 15 secs per song. I tend to do college work and listen to what I call Zen music it helps me stay calm and makes studying way less painful. The birds on here however bothered me right from the get go. I try to play it low so I want hear them as much and honestly after a while its not that bad, but I don't understand why in the world would they put the same sound effect in every single last song. I also think if you're purely relaxing with your eyes close this want be much of a problem but if you do thinking work while listening it can be annoying. So far Zen Garden 2 is my favorite Zen music. | 23 stars
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Very confusing
Spin was okay, nothing stupendous and lacking something special. The lyrics are pretty decent, but the music could use a lot of work. The cd was something that I was expecting, but very different at the same time. If you are a Darren Hayes fan, then the cd is pretty good. But if you are expecting something with more feeling like some of Savage Garden's songs, you should really evaluate your decision of buying this. | 23 stars
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Britney's Fourth Album is a Career Breaker
After 2 years of working behind the scenes, recording, and taking a break from show biz, this fourth album was going to either make or break Britney's career. The album is fantastic. There are funky beats that pick up right where 2001's Slave left off, and very few slow songs. The song topics are much more mature than previous Britney songs, talking more about partying and life as a young adult than ever. I bought it... and I can't stop listening to it. It is so catchy! | 45 stars
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If you thought hip-hop died in the early 90's...
...then Blackalicious is here to tell you otherwise! Hip hop in the early 90's was as varied as Ice-T to Arrested Development, Snoop Doggy Dogg to PM Dawn. For the last five or six years, though, I'm hard pressed to recall much of anything good coming out. Mostly hip hop has become a series of crappy MCs muttering arhythmically over a rehashed 80's hits.Blackalicious is a reminder of how deep and varied hip hop can be and how great it is to listen to! Gift of Gab has hints of De La Sol and Guru in his delivery but really just has his own style - tough but flowing. Xzibit is a terrific producer who provides a great deal of sonic variety to these tracks. The addition of vocalists on a few tracks is not an attempt to have hit singles.The groove these guys establish on tracks like "You Didn't Know That Though", "Shallow Days", and "If I May" is hip hop at it's funkiest while still maintaining an edge. On the other hand, there are a couple tracks that suffer from comparison with the high quality of the CD ("Cliff Hanger"), but really everything on NIA is excellent.I certainly hope Blackalicious and some of the other artists now emerging (like Jurassic 5) are a sign hip hop is making a come back! | 45 stars
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Pure genius
One of the best albums ever, period. Timeless classic.One thing: The lyrics are mostly about cocaine addiction. Look at the cover people!Funk is the antidote for the placebo syndrome.On a second level addiction becomes a metaphor for consumerism and greed.This album is so much greater than the sum of its parts - which are all brilliant by themselves:1. Endangered species / When the syndrome is around / don't let your guard down / All you got to do is call on the funk2. I am Sir Nose'd D'Voidoffunk / I am the subliminal seducer / Syndrome Tweedle-dee-dee-dum Humdrum Don't succumb3. If I were a wizard of finance I would probably invest my life in you4. Mood control is designed to render funkable ideas brought to you by the makers of Mr. Prolong better known as Urge Overkill The pimping of the Pleasure Principle / Mind your wants 'cause there's someone that wants your mind / Do not respond This has been a test Ha ha ha ha ha! And once again the Pleasure Principle has been rescued with the aid of the funk!5.When all the smiles are out of town / When your ups lift you down, your placebo is too weak, you're in the Syndrome6. Most of all he needs the funk / Help him find the funk / Shinin' on the funk / Everybody's got a little light under the sunI once interviewed GC when I was young and naive and asked him if Sir Nose was an alien. GC said: 'No. He's a cool white dude.' I didn't get it then... | 45 stars
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Classic songs...done better by others
Yes, I know the Weavers are a legendary folk group. Yes, I know that their catalog of songs reads like a top 40 list of all-time folk greats.However, not having been very familiar with the Weavers' sound (I was only familiar with the legend that built up around them), I bought this album thinking it would be a terrific collection. If you have never heard the Weavers before, my caveats are:1. Pete Seeger never could sing very well. His voice is hard to listen to many times. He is a great songwriter, but lousy singer.2. The production is (I guess, predictably, given the time period) not very polished. A lot of these sound like they were recorded in a barn or something.3. Songs like Guantanamera and the other well-known tunes were done a whole lot better by other performers. The Weavers might have been the first to record some of these, but they were not the best, in my opinion.Still, the record exudes a simple (albeit homely) charm, in spots. | 12 stars
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Finally - MP3 a la carte!
I am so happy to see this available in the pick and choose method! I love "My Own Way" the single version, but there was no way I was going to pay $40 just for that single. Now I don't have to! Rock on, Duran Duran! | 45 stars
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Elton's serious album.
After I bought Goodbye Yellow Brick Road I went hunting for more EJ albums. My parents gave me a card for Sam Goodies music, for Christmas. As I searched I could only find two Elton albums:Mad Man Across The Water, and Tumble Weed Connection.I bought them and brought them to my house. The first song on MMATW was Tiny Dancer. It is about Bernie's wife and believe it or not she was a dancer! After that beautiful song I heard Levon. The lyrics were a bit unusual and I suspect Christians would object especially with the words "God is dead and the war's begun" but I ignored that and enjoyed the rest of the song.Next was Razor face which I didn't understand what the lyrics meant but it is extremely rare to hear an accordian in a EJ song such as that one. The title track was orcestra showcase with strings and kettle drums. Indian Sunset was a fantastic story part instrumental. Shame on fans who flamed that song because EJ made a great story teller. Holiday Inn seemed to venture back into Tumble Weed Connection. Rotton Peaches was great too especially the La La La ending. All the Nasties was a filler but at least it had a great choir and featured Nigle Olson on drums. Goodbye was a short song that was beautiful and emotional but if you recently broke up with someone don't listen to it. It might make you cry. So if you like EJ right before he was a glamor pop star then this will be a refreshing treat. You won't be dissapointed | 45 stars
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A nice ballad and a terrible hip-hop wannabe song. How do they fair you ask?
Not that great.Big Girls Don't Cry --> 4.25Pedestal --> Terrible lyrics, "clumsy" beat and just an overall M-E-S-S. 2.5/5= 6.75/2= 3.3753.38 stars.Overall: C- | 23 stars
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Addictive original sound
I bought this in a record store (remember those?) while traveling through Kentucky. It turns out that this is one of the best kept secrets- great poppy sounds that are extremely addictive. I still listen almost 10 years later! | 45 stars
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Beautiful, and expansive
I'll never forget the first time I heard Rainy Day Raga. Late one night, I was with friends and we were sitting around a campfire in northern Vermont in 1969. One of the Vermonters turned on the radio to a Canadian fm radio station out of Montreal called CKGM. After a few songs, the French speaking DJ played several cuts from this album. Most memorable for me was Norwegian Mood (after the Beatles' "Norwegian Wood") played in a classical Indian Raga style. To say that affected me in a spiritually expansive way would have been an understatement. The sonorous beauty of Walker's musicianship and his creativity--while gazing into a campfire on a beautiful hill on a Vermont evening were wonderful. It is a most unique album-there is nothing else like it. | 45 stars
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Good music, Mary's voice better than ever
I don't think their is a bigger Mary J Blige fan than me. All the cds including imports and dance mixes seen her in concert 2 times and etc. Say all that to say you can trust this review. The cd is good it's a combination of My life + What's the 411 with a happy twist it doesn't have that same melodic, emotional- sad energy of My Life but a more happy upbeat rhythmic vibe to it. It's danceable and emotional ballads like Friends, Special part of Me and Ultimate Relationships ( Mary's gospel record) all stand out. The first half of the Cd is the Love and it reminds you of My life with Mary feeling it on every song. Songs like Ohh!, When We, Willing and Waiting and Not Today with Eve. The thing that messup the cd is the songs dont have time to marinate if you listen closely to the Mary Cd, My life and No More Drama each song ends weith Mary doing a beautiful riff and especially Special Part of Me I wanna hear those riffs good or not especially when we can see in the DVD that she goes into tearscalls that song. Puff in his wisdom faded out the songs so early. I encourage you to listen to Never wanna live with you ( My Life) and hear her riffs as the song fades out listen Beautful ones(Mary), Love I never had(Mary). Generally all the songs feel good and I love her vocal abiltiy now to go high and still come back down. I do agree with another reviewer that this cd would of been hot with some production from Chucky thompson and Jimmy Jam. All in all it's good to have in your cd collection. I disagree one reviewer the cd had two fail singles check the charts adn Mary's record history Ohh went to number 15 and Love at First Sight was number one on Hip Hop R&B Sales singles. And the album's platinum. And some of Mary's biggest songs didn't go high in the Charts Your Child only went to Number 25 on the hip hop R& B Charts and 7 days didnt even make it to the top 10, but their still songs that she performs in concert and gets major radio play. Persoanlly im ready for Mary to do a gospel cd. | 34 stars
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CERRA LOS OJOS Y LEVANTA VUELO..(CONFIA EN QUE TE ELEVARAS EN SERIO....)
CUANTAS PALABRAS PUEDEN DESCRIBIR UNA OBRA MAESTRA ETERNA COMO ESTA?..NO HAY PARRAFOS NI HORAS QUE PUEDAN DESDIBUJAR UNO DE LOS MOMENTOS MAS SUBLIMES DONDE CONFLUYEN EL TALENTO, LOS EGOS, LA DESPREOCUPACION, LA DEJADEZ Y LA ALEGRIA (SI, LA ALEGRIA) DE ESTOS TIPOS MADUROS, GASTADOS POR EL HUMO, LA NOCHE, LA SOLEDAD Y TANTAS COSAS MAS....SI NO TE GUSTA EL JAZZ, ESCUCHALO...SI TE GUSTA EL ROCK, ESCUCHALO..SI TE GUSTA Y AMAS LA MUSICA..NO PODES DEJAR DE ATESORARLO!!!!! | 45 stars
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"Don't Be A Dropout" for the Milennium!
Even today, many fans think of James Brown as mostly flambouyance, funk, and fire, not realizing that one of his many sides comes in the form of a socially conscious composer of songs like "Don't Be A Dropout" from 1966, "I'm Not Demanding" from '69, "King Heroin" from '72, and on and on. He reasserts this stance with "School Is In" and even brings back Bobby Byrd, the man who thought it would be of mutual benefit to include a certain troubled youth in his musical group around 1952.It's the call and response thing revisited (recalling "Soul Power", "Get Up, Get Into It, Get Involved, and so many others from over 30 years ago) and it appears that this is the first time the two have recorded together since 1971! ("Revolution of the Mind", cut at the Apollo that year, heavily features Byrd).The Brown "call" [incorporating the song title itself] and the Byrd "response" are powerful, but the verse is somewhat unintelligible, beside being slightly insufficient - quite unlike the aforementioned "Get Up, Get Into It...".The fourth track, listed on the sticker and on the disc itself, is called "Let The Sunshine In (Peace)" and conveys the message of be-constructive-not-destructive even better than the lead track. It's a mid-tempo inspirational tune, sounding very much like a song (possibly) recorded for the excellent "The Merry Christmas Album" from '99. | 34 stars
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People giving one star because of their computer incompetence?
I just want to say that this is one of the most brilliant works of mankind, and for people to give it a one star review because they can't get the cd to play on their computer are complete jerks and morons.The stupidity! | 45 stars
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heinous
save your mone | 01 star
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Power-Goth has Arrived - and It's Terrific!
These guys are a very young band - The lyrics are mushy and artsy and the fans are teenie boppers. But all is forgiven because Amy and friends have 'IT'. The TALENT.. - a captured piece of magic, new and fresh, right there on the disk. When I heard the first single on the radio I stopped the car and thought.. "what the [heck] is this?".Their sound is Sarah Mclaughlin fronting for Bon Jovi.Or Tori Amos fronting for Rush.They've got the vibrancy and undiluted, white-hot passion of youth. The sheer ambition here - the type of effect they've attempted - maybe it's a bit overwrought, but very few artists ever work at this level.I recently went to their concert in Boston - they filled an 1100 seat club - they could have easily sold out an 8K stadium - and their live show had such strong charisma that it felt like they could blow out the walls. It was the best performance I've ever seen - like the Beatles at Ed Sullivan - a very, very powerful show. And they were very happy to be up on stage. I hope they taped a live CD.I hear Ben Moody left the band and I don't know if Amy & friends can write this music on their own. I certainly hope so. I'm counting the days till the next album. | 45 stars
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the pillar of early 90's bronx rap!
this is a hip hop classic! the first reviewer summed it up very eloquently. | 45 stars
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WTF Express???
The original mix is the one I prefer. This is too much like rewriting history as far as I'm concerned. I don't think RAW POWER was ever issued to cd properly in the first place. I seem to remember that Sony edited out Ig's beltch on the previous and only other reissue that I know of. Whose idea was that? Someone said to get the original vinyl and I'd have to agree with that assesment if you have a turntable. What they should have done here was issue this as a double cd with Iggy's mix for those who want to hear it along with the unrevised original Bowie mix. | 23 stars
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A COME BACK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Nice cd better than his last few, He toured with is lp got to see him 2 times!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! | 34 stars
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Middle of the Road Stevie
I still get Excited about a New Stevie WOnder Album or Song even though it's been 20 Years since He came Correct all the way through to me.this song was Alright it had a momen tor two nothing more or less.still looking to His New Album due soon. | 23 stars
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Mark Knopfler Private Investigations
This has all his best, plus some I have not heard before. Nice to have them all in one place and excellent sound quality. Kudos to Amazon here. | 45 stars
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Damn
Damn this is dr. dre's best god damn everyone you have to buy this now | 45 stars
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The Killers have a killer CD.
Love this band. They bring back the sound of the 80's but put a great and awesome spin on it. Some songs also have an original indie rock pop sound to it. Get this album, you will not be dissapointed. | 45 stars
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Don't let Monica's photo fool you; the gloves are off.
Where to begin?Since 1994, William Faith and Monica Richards have created romantic myth-rock with flashes of their shared punk roots. Their only real stylistic contemporaries are Eric and Lisa Hammer (Mors Syphilitica).After the consistent elements among the first three albums (and one retrospective, "Vera Causa"), "The Burning Season" is a sharp slap up the side of the head. All the usual emotion and drama are present, but with a fiercely updated atmosphere. Ain't no "Sea Angler," ain't no "Reine La Belle." The beats are faster, the vocal tactics are more varied, and there's an honest-to-God guitar solo!The intro "Bait & Switch" is a warning shot of deathrock across the bow. Then POW!-"Sredni Vashtar" has an even faster beat and relentless rhythm. Seven years ago, Monica sang "Come to life my second skin / Come protect the madness locked within."Well, now: "Time to drop the seventh veil and let some madness wander in."The trappings of Renaissance and Celtic music I've come to expect are stripped away, even on songs of historical legend like "Boudiccea." Much of the instrumentation and song structure runs 1980s-present. A notable exception is the funeral-jazz "Gone to Ground." A controlled weariness creeps into Monica's vocals here, and it works.The title track has a very cinematic feel, with Creatures-style drum programming. Overall, this CD has less low-end thunder and music layering than the previous releases. It sounds like the greenery has been burned away. Still, it isn't a TOTAL departure; Monica's vocals on "Boudiccea," "Whispered In Your Ear," and "Visions" are in that gentle, comfortable mid-range she and the late Kirsty Maccoll own. William's acoustic guitar is as soothing and intricate as his electric guitar is energetic. Speaking of which, the old-school punk declaration "Relic Song" features the aforementioned solo, with a hilarious sample of a cheering stadium crowd. It's gallows humor (exhibit A: page 2 of the lyrics, bottom right corner), and it works for me."In The Amber Room" is a seductive ethereal piece, with NIN-esque electronics and soprano vocals that harken to Liz Fraser (Cocteau Twins). William puts a twist on the wrath he brought to "Trauma Coil" with "Failure To Thrive." He doesn't yell this time, but the anger and admonition are clear: "A torch to the error and a cold hard look in the eye." The truth-seeker Diogenes would like this tune.No, this CD isn't a retread of the first three. Faith and The Muse are artists; it's not SUPPOSED to be. They don't sound tired - they just sound tired of the petty aspects of this big, cyclical journey we endure. ("This is not a darker age / Just the turning of the wheel.")As for the gentle closer "Willow's Song:" this may be the ultimate Third Date Song. Monica wore bells on her ankles while recording this one. After about two minutes, ankle bells may be the ONLY thing you're wearing. Trust me. | 45 stars
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Great songs
I love female vocals and modern lullabyes. Now that I am pregnant I decided to start listening to lullabyes to "inspire" my baby and hopefully he or she might remember the songs when she or he is here. I should love the songs as well. Surprisingly this CD fits to a T! | 45 stars
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Second Coming? Sorry, But They Should Have Stayed Home
I bought this CD because of Vintage Eyes, which is a great little song, but the rest of the CD is horrible. The people who are writing the reviews here giving this CD five stars should listen to the bands that these guys are leeching off of, like Soundgarden's A-Sides and Alice In Chains' Best of the Box CDs. Or, Sponge's Rotten Pinata and the first Creed CD. I was really disheartened that I spent my hard-earned cash on something this drab and direction-less. | 01 star
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The Mothers' "Leftovers" Are Their Strongest Album
In some ways, the Mothers of Invention's BURNT WEENY SANDWICH picks up where HOT RATS, the fusion masterpiece their leader and guitarist Frank Zappa had released under his own name a few weeks earlier, left off. Both albums feature lengthy, largely improvised instrumental tracks, and both cross musical boundaries freely. But where HOT RATS was very much an exercise in jazz/rock, WEENY tends to showcase Zappa's modern classical influences a bit more, whether overtly (as in self-explanatory titles like "Igor's Boogie" and "Overture to a Holiday in Berlin") or more subtly (as in Ian Underwood's entrancing piano solo on "Aybe Sea"). Nevertheless, there's plenty for everyone in both of these albums, and while HOT RATS is ultimately the stronger of the two WEENY is likewise a top-of-the-line offering which never disappoints.Although the original Mothers had already disbanded by the time Zappa compiled and released WEENY in late 1969, the band's spirit is still evident in the sometimes jarring juxtaposition of styles, the insertion of brief "interlude" pieces between longer compositions and, inevitably, the humorous touches which adorn the album. Two doo-wop covers (a real rarity in Zappa's usually entirely self-composed musical universe), "WPLJ" and "Valarie," bookend WEENY beautifully, with Zappa proving as effective a pop vocalist as former Mother Ray Collins and bassist Roy Estrada providing a stunning falsetto on the latter tune. In between these two worthy tributes to 1950s teen culture are some far more "serious" works, most notably the eighteen-minute "Little House I Used to Live In," assembled from several studio sessions and a concert recorded in England, which features jaw-dropping violin work from Sugar Cane Harris (another hero of HOT RATS), piano fantasias from Underwood and Don Preston and - get this - an onstage organ solo by Zappa himself. The title track and "Holiday in Berlin, Full-Blown" give the leader a chance to display his guitar chops to good effect, while the various short numbers highlight different facets of his unique compositional bent. The result is an album nearly as impressive as, if somewhat less cohesive than, its esteemed predecessor, and one no fan of serious experimental music should be without. | 45 stars
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Love this band!
Not as good as Elephant, but this album rocks, and gets into your head, like only the White Stripes can. | 45 stars
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Double Vision
Probably on of the best albums by this group. If you are into 70's and 80's Rock and Roll, definitely one more to add to your collection. | 45 stars
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Somewhat Dissapointing
The first Jeff Healey album I heard was Mess of Blues which I enjoyed. This album is pretty good rock but not the kind of blues Healey was known for. | 23 stars
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Awesome Song
I remember this song "First True Love Affair" when I was young...and wondered who sang it. and now I own the cd....I love it. | 45 stars
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This is a great album...
The band continues their powerful sound, not a big move from The Beautiful Letdown, but this album is everything and more than I expected. I enjoy the transitional effects between some of the songs, they add dimension and interest.To avoid the Sony spyware issue, download from iTunes!Is Switchfoot a Christian Rock Band? Well, the guys are Christians, and the band rocks! As a Christian, I have to admit that not every conversation I engage in includes the mention of Christ specifically. This band's lyrics make me reflect on the power and wonder of God and His creation. I also appreciate artists that proclaim the name of Jesus boldly, such as Kutless, Newsboys, Third Day, Delirious? and many others. It concerns me when we as Christians (and I have been guilty) fail to support/encourage our brethren because they do not operate exactly as we think they should, while they are encouraging the body of Christ and drawing people to the kingdom.As a member of a "Christian" band, I do strive to honor the Creator and Savior in all my songs. Many of them do mention Them by name, some do not. I hope however that all is to the glory of God. | 45 stars
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Not 5.1 Surround
The SACD Original Master Recording - I contacted Amazon by e-mail before purchasing, and they could not tell me if the SACD layer is surround. Unfortunately, I had to order it to get that information. The SACD layer is NOT surround, and I don't know why Mobile Fidelity would release it that way. I have to return this disc.As of this writing, Amazon has the description for the Japanese SHM version here, and the reviews are from different versions. | 12 stars
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The reviews should ONLY be for the new CD/DVD
WHY are their reviews, attached to this item, from as far back as 1998?? Those should only be with the vinyl release and reviews here should only pertain to the newly released set. That being said, I plan on purchasing this item in the very near future. | 45 stars
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Mothers Said There's Be Daze Like This
A gem. This is Zappa that can be enjoyed by people who don't "get" Zappa. It's musical, it kicks, it's fun, at times it's even beautiful (Little Umbrellas, Son Of Mr. Green Genes).Zappa, a true genius by any yardstick, was famous for his bizarre musical theatre which mixed orchestral, rock, and jazz with "anti-music", sound effects, and assorted snippets of irreverence. He is justifiably criticized for being a shameless misogynist with a sophomoric sense of humor.But his musical vision was always fearlessly original and even at its worst, interesting. This was the first album where he forgot about being clever, plugged in the axe, and wore it out. Fantastic supporting cast as well, with the exception of Captain Beefheart whose additions are always unwelcome.Zappa did re-jigger the masters (an annoying habit of his) but fortunately no major damage was done. Arguably Zappa's best effort, with the possible exception of Only In It For The Money. | 45 stars
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Like Xeroxing a Van Gough
I got the joke of the original Blues Brothers segments on "Saturday Night Live," and I do think that they should be credited with reviving interest in a genuine American art form. But rather than buying this album why not seek out the real deal -- the original versions of these songs which crush these frat boy keg party covers like an elephant stomping a grape? | 01 star
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One of the Best
This is easily one of the best albums the Stones ever made in their whole wonderful career.This album, more than most of their others, has a song that communicates in its own special way, discussing with our ready ears about rape, war, murder, drugs, love....everything.My review of each individual song is as follows:Gimme Shelter: One of their best, my all time favorite, Stones or not. Without a word being spoken, the intro to the song quickly explains the realitys of war and how quickly it can get out of control. ....Love in Vain: A mournful song about loving someone and not getting it back, with instrumental solos explaining just that.Country Honk: The earlier version of the Stone's hit Honky Tonk Woman, a great country song.Live with Me: The name says it all.One of the sexually provacative than all the other songs on this album combined, but with a great tune.Let it Bleed: A great song, combining interesting lyrics with enjoyable music.Midnight Rambler:This song is another great hit, and reasonably so. With an insane desire for a certain death that borderes on insanity, this one will last in your mind long after you've listened to it. But for me, it was the bluesey harmonica that made this a great song.You Got the Silver:A very touching song, with a caring that's contrary to some songs on the album.Monkey Man:A drug song at its core, but with meaning.A very up-and-at-ya beat.You Can't Aways Get What you Want: A great, great song.With Lyrics that are relative to the Beatle's Hey Jude, a great song with great music, made so by the small orchestra that plays in the background to a touching choir complementing the lyrics.Another justified hit.If you want to start, or even finish, your Stone's collection, this album would do it. | 45 stars
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DARE I SAY BEST METAL ALBUM OF THE 90S
Now this is what heavy music is all about kiddies. Amazing grooves,bashing drums,Guitars that cut like razors and lyrics that are deep and meaningful. If you like 90s metal you can not go wrong with this album. While other bands are trying to keep up with the major label sounds of Limp Bizket and Korn these guys are eclipsing the standard. Lead singer Jamie Jastas lyrics are excellent you want see this guy clownin on your tv set doin it for nookie. This man sings about real life and real issues. The guitar sound is to as heavy as Crowbars bassists left but cheek it sounds like 10 marshall stacks. I think you get my drift order this CD now you will not be dissapointed. I give this 5 stars. | 45 stars
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Raffi rates.
The rythym and the words are fantastic. As a kindergarten teacher, I usedthis album when I taught. My grand-daughter listened to it then, as well as theother Raffi albums I played.Today, years later, my grand-daughter still remembers the music and words; and,I just bought this album for HER new baby. I cant wait to sing and dance with mygreat-great grand-daughter as Raffi sings. | 45 stars
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It Left Me Wide Eyed
One of the most Amazing CD's I have ever listened to. I have all of Nichle Nordemans CD's and I would have to say this one is her best. I listen to it almost every night its one of the first CD's that got me into listening to more music. I think every one should listen to this CD a least once. | 34 stars
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RIP BIG
Everyone who hates on this album hates for one reason. That is that the album is full of Biggie verses that they've already heard. If we can look at this as a normal rap album being released in 2005 rather than Biggie remakes, this album would be one of the greatest of all time. We can't rate this album low just because we've already heard BIG's verses before. Forget that BIG wouldn't colaborate with artists like Slim Thug.This album needs to be looked at as a normal rap album and if we do that, then it's one heck of a cd.The album begins with "It Has Been Said" featuring Eminem, Obie Trice, & P. Diddy. There is no chorus and is three straight verses of Slim Shady, Obie Trice, and then P. Diddy or Didddy or Puff Daddy or whatever he is now. This is one of only two tracks that Biggie does not appear on. It's basically a tribute to BIG's career. I like it. Everyone delivers good verses on top of a good beat and a well produced track. Next is "Spit Your Game" featuring Twista and Bone Thugs-N-Harmony. The only member of Bone Thugs that raps on this track is Krayzie Bone. This song includes a Biggie verse from "Notorious Thugs". The Swizz Beatz beat is very up tempo and fast. That goes along well with Biggie's verse and two of the fastest rappers in the game, being Twista and Krayzie Bone. Next is the third great track in a row, "Whatchu Want (The Commission)" featuring Jay-Z. This is an unheard Biggie verse on top of a spectacular beat. Jay-Z spits a great verse to go along with the the great chorus and well produced track. Next is "Get Your Grind On" featuring Big Pun, Freeway, and Fat Joe. Big Pun finally gets his collaboration with BIG. This track is another excellent one. Fat Joe raps one of the best verses that I've heard him spit in his whole career. The Freeway hook is great as well. Following this is "Living The Life" featuring a long list of guests being Ludacris, Snoop Dogg, Bobby Valentino, Faith Evans, and Cherri Dennis. Even though this may not be Biggie's style, we need to look at it as normal rap song. BIG, Ludacris, and Snoop Dogg all spit great verses on top of a very unique beat. I'm not a Bobby Valentino fan, but I love the chorus.After five straight fire tracks, a skit is included. I'm not a big fan of skits, as this album includes 5 of them. Oh well. Following the skit is my favorite song of the entire album, "1970 Something" featuring The Game and Faith Evans. This is one of those songs that you can listen to over and over again without getting old. Faith Evans sings great on the chorus to go along with two Biggie verses and one by the Game. I'm not a Game fan at all since he left G-Unit, but I respect his talent as he does good on this track. Next is the first single, "Nasty Girl" featuring Jazze Pha, Nelly, P. Diddy, Jagged Edge, and Avery storm. I don't like this track at all, as it is the first mediocre song of the album. I can't stand when Jazze Pha says Phyzzal Phyzzal at all. The song isn't well put together and the beat sucks. Next is a great track, "Living in Pain" featuring 2Pac, Nas, and Mary. J Blige. This is a great Just Blaze beat. MJB does great with the vocals on the chorus as well and I can't say enough about the three verses. Imagine possibly the three greatest rappers of all time collaborating on the same track. There's no way it can't be fire. Following is "I'm Wit Whateva" featuring Lil Wayne, Juelz Santana, and Jim Jones. This very short track doesn't include BIG at all, but rather a Lil Wayne and Juelz Santana verse to go along with a Jim Jones hook. I like this song but only wish it could include BIG on it. Then comes "Beef" featuring Mobb Deep. I love this track. The chorus, beat, verses, intro, outro, are all tight.After another skit comes "Hustler's Story" featuring Akon, Big Gee of Boyz N Da Hood, and Scarface. This is an excellent song. Biggie, Big Gee, and Scarface all spit tight verses along with the dark beat. Oh yea, and did I mention the great chorus by Akon that anyone can sing along to while nodding their head. Next is "Breakin Old Habits" featuring T.I. and Slim Thug. I didn't think much of this track at first, but I like it more and more each time. The beat is great along with a great T.I. hook and verses by Slim Thug, BIG, and T.I. Following is the second mediocre track of the album, "Ultimate Rush" featuring Missy Elliot. The beat is horrible to go along with unfitting choruses and verses all compiled together. This is definitly one of the worst songs of the album. Following is "Mi Casa" featuring R. Kelly and Charlie Wilson. This beat is very unique and different and I like it a lot. BIG's verses sound good to go along with the R. Kelly and Charlie Wilson vocals.Followed by a skit comes "Hold Ya Head" with Bob Marley. I love this track. Bob Marley does the hook over a nice beat followed by great BIG versed from "Suicidal Thoughts" over a very dark beat. The production is great as well. Next is "Just a Memory" featuring Clipse. The beat is one of the best as well as one of the best hooks. BIG and Clipse do not dissapoint either. "Wake Up" featuring KoRn is a very daring collaboration. I don't mind the rock type beat to go along with the good Biggie verses, but the vocals by KoRn aren't that good and bring the song down a notch.All in all, every single track deserves 10 out of 10 stars except for Nasty Girl (7/10), Ultimate Rush (5/10), and Wake Up (8/10). As I stated before, this needs to be viewed as a rap album of 05-06. RIP BIG. | 45 stars
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Brenden Ballacchino
It seems as though with each Redman cd put out the quality of the cd decreases (exception method man redman cd). Redmans cds usually have awesome beats demonstarted in songs like time for some action and I'll be dat . This cd just contains no songs that you will want to listen to for years. Although songs like diggy doc and uh-huh are dicent with a few others. Its a dicent cd but it doesn't live up to what you expect from redman. I strongly suggest you but muddy waters and I'll be Dat first. | 23 stars
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A wonderful cd
I really enjoyed this cd because it was very entertaining.Today we do not have any good female groups. Every song was very well done, this group really put a lot of hard work and it really shows. It is really sad that this group is no longer making music together. | 45 stars
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Music to clean kitchen appliances by...
I don't know what that means either. Anyway, given all the pre-hype around Macy Gray, I feared the worse (Charo, Susan Anton, or that CD by that woman from that TV Show). Instead I found myself doing awkward, "issue"-laden versions of all the latest dance moves in my car on the way to work while listening to songs such as "Why Didn't You Call Me" and "Sex-O-Matic Venus Freak". After further listening I've come to really love this record. While some other reviewers (wink-wink) have compared her to Mariah Carey and Whitney Houston, I find her to be more in the camp of Lauryn Hill and Tina Turner (but without that greasy shirtless saxophonist---thank God). Gray's voice is unlike anything I've heard in recent memory: sort of like Aretha's, if Aretha were a piece of sandpaper strung out on helium (it's one of our nation's hidden epidemics). Regardless, I dig Macy Gray's act. "I Try" and "Still" (No relation to Lionel Ritchie) are the songs that continue to stand out and my toaster oven is all the more happier for this. | 34 stars
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Best CD!
Total blasphemy. Excellently done. Rough and sets a great tone for an album. Incantation are the best in death metal. | 45 stars
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Released like a Hurricane in '84
This is the release that followed the band's 1982 hit album Blackout. It is perhaps the peak of the Scorpions' recording plateau studio-wise. They were indeed firing on all 8 cylinders on this one.Song listing and thoughts:1. Bad Boys Running Wild - a great opening song with Schenker on rhythm and the frantic Jabs on lead guitar2. Rock You Like A Hurricane - this song took the world by storm and wouldn't let go ... sleazy lyrics and A+ solo work by Matthias3. I'm Leaving You - kinda a mixture of a mid tempo rocker/ballad which works really well4. Coming Home - starts with the false ballad opening then rolls hard the rest of the way5. The Same Thrill - a fast paced song, sounds kinda rushed though6. Big City Nights - a Schenker masterpiece...don't let the guitar tracking fool you, this song is nearly all Schenker. Mr. Flying V starts off with the main rhythm and also plays the lead melody. Matthias plays the 2nd rhythm and the solo fills for the chorus, but Schenker returns with the lead melody along with his powerful lead solo. However, when played live Matthias had/has to play Rudolph's intro rhythm guitar part to compensate7. As Soon As the Good Times Roll - a mid tempo song with different drum stops, a cool touch8. Crossfire - a nice slow burning song with Matthias and his laser shooting guitar9. Still Loving You - a ballad masterpiece featuring Schenker baby aka Mr. Flying V on the soaring lead guitarKlaus' vocals are top notch throughout.A great album by a hard rocking band that made it big and deserved it. Something that has always bugged me about Love At First Sting is that Matthias' guitar tracking volumes are noticeably low in the mix for whatever reason (compared to Blackout or Savage Amusement), but that's just a minor picky track mixing detail. | 34 stars
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Get ready to move
Admittedly, I'm a big fan of the Afro Celts - I love their other three albums. This new album does feel more highly produced than the first two, but that by no means detracts from the finished product.If I can't sit still when I hear it and I'm beaming from ear to ear, then I know it's great. I dare you - put on the title track, Seed, and see how long you can go without twitching even a tiny bit to those infectious rhythms. If you don't, check your pulse! | 45 stars
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A Nice Touch of the Past
I feel this is the best (Mel & Tim) cd I have it in constant rotation in my stereo. How unique is "Starting All Over Again" and there version is unmatched by any artist. I love their sweet harmonies on "Carry Me". I reccommend this cd. | 45 stars
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poor UMG Poor
the problem of this albums is Universal Music Group. Check versions of some girls, queen and the who. So Poor. So Sad,. compare with beatles, floyd, crimson.... | 01 star
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Two Of His Late Albums At Columbia
Anyone who is a fan of the Big Bands that ruled the airways and juke boxes, not to mention record sales and dance floors across the U.S. and Canada from about 1935 to 1942 in what became known as The Big Band Era, knows the top names were those of Glenn Miller, Benny Goodman, Jimmy and Tommy Dorsey, Louis Armstrong, Artie Shaw, Harry James, Jimmie Lunceford, Count Basie, Chic Webb and Duke Ellington. Their music generally dealt with the "swing" aspect of jazz, while those who chose to stay close to the highly-popular and more "danceable" "sweet band" approach were led by the likes of Sammy Kaye, Kay Kyser, Glen Gray & The Casa Loma Orchestra, Shep Fields, Henry Busse, Lawrence Welk, Horace Heidt, Ted Weems, Hal Kemp, Russ Morgan, Jan Garber, Blue Barron and Guy Lombardo & His Royal Canadians.Joining that latter group was trumpeter Dick Henry Jurgens, born on January 9, 1910 in Sacramento, California, who began his career in 1934 with Decca and who, over the course of the next sixty years, would cut some 225 singles and numerous albums while chalking up 25 national hit singles from 1939 to 1947. The problem is, whereas you will find a number of CDs covering his music, including several in the vast Uncollected series from Hindsight Records, there is not one that presents all 25 of those hits and 23 uncharted B-sides (he had two double-sided hits). The best in that regard is the 1999 volume from Collector's Choice titled Here's That Band Again: The Best of Dick Jurgens and His Orchestra, but it is far from complete.In this 2004 release, Collectables pulls together two of his LPs, with tracks 1 to 12 culled from his 1950 Columbia CL-6136 "Your Dance Date" while 13 to 24 are from the 1954/55 Columbia CL-563 "Columbia Dance Party Series: Dancing In Person With Dick Jurgens At The Aragon Ballroom." That latter is appropriate because he held sway at that Chicago venue from 1937 to 1943, and then again from 1946 to 1955, although his famous introduction, "here's that band again," was first uttered by announcer Mel Ventner while he and has band were at San Francisco's St. Francis Hotel in 1933.Eddy Howard was his vocalist on his first eight hit singles, and when he left in 1940 to form his own highly-successful Sweet Band, Ronnie Kemper, Harry Cool, Buddy Moreno, Jimmy Castle, Al Galante and ray McIntosh took over those duties for the most part the rest of the way.All 25 hits are listed in the Comments below to show you what's missing in terms of CD tracks, with those included in the 1999 Collector's Choice release preceded by an asterisk (*). That album also includes his theme song, Day Dreams Come True At Night, which he first recorded in 1939 on Vocalion 5313, then a subsidiary of Columbia (as was Okeh), b/w The Missouri Waltz. Neither side made the national charts.Dick Jurgens passed away at age 85 on October 5, 1995. | 34 stars
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Great compilation!
The Animals: Eric Burdon on vocals, Chas Chandler on bass, John Steel on drums, Hilton Valentine on guitar, Alan Price and Dave Rowberry on organ and piano. And this group made some of the best blues rock music of the 1960s. This CD includes works recorded in 1964 and 1965.It starts out with the classic "House of the Rising Sun." This is rawly sung and sung in a compelling manner by Eric Burdon. He had one of the truest blues voices of the 1960s among younger singers. The organ of Alan Price adds a really neat element to this song, with foreboding lines such as "[this house] has been the ruin of many a poor boy, and Lord I'm one."I also enjoy their effort at singing Chuck Berry. His "Around and Around" is a wonderful little rock and roll piece, and the Animals cover it nicely. Burdon does a credible job singing this familiar Berry work, with classic lines such as "never stop rockin' until the moon went down." And Hilton Valentine plays nice Chuck Berry guitar work.John Lee Hooker's "Boom Boom" is a classic blues song. How well to the Animals cover this? Good blues guitar work by Valentine and a nice organ element by Price add to the song greatly. Burdon isn't John Lee Hooker "listen to the latter's vocal styling!), but he does a nice job in his own terms. In short, a satisfying cover of a fine blues song.I could not resist commenting on their version of a Goffin-King composition, "I'm in Love Again." The Animals imbue this with a nice blues-rock sensibility.And then one of their classic anthems, "We Gotta Get Out of This Place." Key line up front: "You'll be dead before your due." This is about living in a working/lower class situation; Burdon sings of his father's desperate life. He sings of how he and his girl have to escape, with the lines (poignantly and rawly sung): "We gotta get out of this place, if it's the last thing we ever do," in order to achieve a "better life." A pretty somber picture of life at the bottom. This contains an awful lot of social commentary, scaffolded by some fine rock and roll instrumental work.My last illustration of the work from this CD--"Story of Bo Diddley." They begin with that distinct Bo Diddley sound, played quite nicely. This is the story of Bo Diddley, with mention of the Rolling Stones, Beatles, and references to Bob Dylan and so on. Enchanting!So, the bottom line? This is a wonderful collection of the Animals' best works. Obviously, one can argue that 15 cuts cannot do justice to the work of the Animals. But this is one unbelievable set of songs, so I have no beef on that point. A must buy if you want the best of the Animals. | 45 stars
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Just Like New
Came in before I expected it, very well packaged and if it's not brand new, I can't tell. I saw this on HBO years ago and when I saw the CD I just had to have it. So much fun. | 45 stars
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Best band I've heard in years
I am in love with this band. The lyrics tear at your heart, the music lifts you up and pulls you down, together they take you away to another place. It's magical. Amy is so talented, and has the most beautiful voice, and Ben writes the most poignant lyrics, and together it's absolute magic. Get this CD, you won't regret it. | 45 stars
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SOLID
Union has returned with another monster CD. I cannot understand why this band does not get any air play on the radio. I thought it would be near impossible to match their unbelievable debut CD, but they answered the call. 'Do Your Own Thing', 'Dead', 'Everything's Alright', and 'Shine' are as good as it gets if you are a rock fan. The CD is solid from start to finish. The only change I would make is the "word" in an otherwise good song - 'Who Do You Think You Are?'. They should re-release the CD, minus the expletive. But that's minor. If you are a fan of Union, you gotta be proud of these guys. If you haven't listened to Union, buy both CD's and get ready to be amazed. | 34 stars
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New York rap at its finest
If you like hip hop, you deserve it to yourself to at least give Cool Calm Pete a try. He creates interesting stories in his songs, from funny to sad, and the cuts he uses work well with his style.I first saw him opening for the Perceptionists, and I'm glad I did. I've been listening to him ever since. | 34 stars
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Good Show
I saw one of the first G3 shows several years ago in Los Angeles and it was a ton of fun. However, I had my doubts when I ordered this DVD as I suspected that it may just be another show of ego with a thousand notes per second. I was pleasantly surprised when I popped it in and found a laid back and fun show. Satch, while relatively less technical then the other two on the ticket, is my favorite because he plays with the most taste and feel. His set is rockin' and the least mechanical of the three. His note choice and style is just more mature and reminds me of what a great electric guitar player sounds like. No frills Joe never disappoints. Vai's playing is maturing nicely and he is starting to play from the heart. He is arguable the best all around electric guitar player alive for his technical ability and music breadth of knowledge is matched by few. Unfortunately, Vai only gets a few songs in this set, so he doesn't get a chance to really shine on this DVD, though I really like his treatment of Hendrix's "Little Wing."Malmsteen was a great treat to see. Having never seen him live but casually respecting his audio work, I was very interested to see this legendary machine do his thing. What Malmsteen lacks in feel and taste he makes up for in grand style with stunning command of the guitar. Truly, he is an amazing guitar player. His fat fingers move at mind numbing speeds up and down that scalloped maple '73 strat finger board and across the strings in precise fluid motion. Really unreal and something you must see to believe. Segovia would probably scoff at his ability suggesting his is merely a circus act, but I find him fascinating to watch.Three very different styles highlighted and all possess tremendous talent. Highly recommended for all guitar music freaks. | 34 stars
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