Cream

Amazon.com
A good dance compilation is designed to distract from woe and prompt booty-shaking. Sandra Collins is a master of trance-groove trench-digging--her specialty is beat building, and not much else. As she did with 2000's Tranceport 3 mix, Collins uses the Cream platform to spin music for twilight flexing, but with a militaristic edge.

Tranceport 3 offered trance of epic scale, but Cream is more ambient and minimal. Much of the album is simply a 4/4 beat with little adornment except the occasional alien percussion or a ghostly voice sampled and inserted for effect. Each track supports the current Collins manifesto of minimal dance music for quick clubbing, but these tracks foster an insular mood of cold, sleek uniformity.

Carissa Mondavi's "Solid Ground" is the ambient-ish intro, with a warm vocal and tribal percussion aiding the glowing groove. The CD builds slowly, changing little while layering thin synth and bass sounds, rolling through Manhattan's "Robot Funk 2001" and 16th Element's "Warp" until the repetitive beat grows harder and more direct with Traveller & Quest's "Chaos Engine."

High hats get busier and the beat syncopates for Voyager's "Derangement of the Senses." This track--along with Chiller Twist's "Do You Hear It?"--provide the album's mellow mid-section. "Thriller"-esque accents in the latter make the welcome rests sound corny, not profound. The closing tracks by JBN, T-Empo and Maurice & Noble ratchet up the intensity, but nowhere near the intense levels of Tranceport 3. Is Collins mellowing with age, or simply becoming more cerebral? Her Cream mix shows a clever DJ keeping it hard, lean, and mysterious. --Ken Micallef

Cream,Sandra Collins,Kinetic Records,Dance,Dance Music,Pop,Progressive Trance,Trance

Average customer rating: Cream Lives On. In Depth review of notable tracks Pure Classic Rock cream of Cream The first great rock album from Cream

Disraeli Gears Cream Manufacturer: Polydor / Umgd ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Britain | British Isles | Europe | International | Styles | Music Blues Rock | Rock | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music General | Hard Rock & Metal | Styles | Music Hard Rock | Hard Rock & Metal | Styles | Music Psychedelic Rock | Classic Rock | Styles | Music Album-Oriented Rock (AOR) | Classic Rock | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music CDs $7 - $10 | British Isles | Europe | International | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | British Isles | Europe | International | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music CDs $7 - $10 | Pop General | Pop | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music CDs $7 - $10 | Blues Rock | Rock | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | Blues Rock | Rock | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music CDs $7 - $10 | Psychedelic Rock | Classic Rock | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | Psychedelic Rock | Classic Rock | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music CDs $7 - $10 | Hard Rock | Hard Rock & Metal | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | Hard Rock | Hard Rock & Metal | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music $7.99 and Under | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Pop | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Classic Rock | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Rock | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Alternative Rock | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Hard Rock & Metal | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music International | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music All Blowout Music | Blowout Music | Stores | Music $7.99 and Under | Prices | Blowout Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 Classic Rock | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 Hard Rock & Metal | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 International | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 Pop | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 Rock | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 All Music | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Fresh Cream Blind Faith Are You Experienced Wheels of Fire Layla and Other Assorted Love Songs ASIN: B0000067L2 Release Date: 1998-04-07

Tracks:

1. Strange Brew
2. Sunshine Of Your Love
3. World Of Pain
4. Dance The Night Away
5. Blue Condition
6. Tales Of Brave Ulysses
7. Swlabr
8. We're Going Wrong
9. Outside Woman Blues
10. Take It Back
11. Mother's Lament

Amazon.com

Fresh Cream, the album that introduced this seminal super-blues trio to America, was perhaps a bit too blues-based to do the advance hype ("Clapton is God!") justice. Two of its three best-known tracks, after all, were blues covers. It was Disraeli Gears that turned Cream into a "supergroup." Here they pursue the psychedelic ideals of the era with total abandon (the LP cover art still stands as one of the 1960s' most striking designs), merging these ideals with their take on the blues and adorning the amalgamation with some superb pop craftsmanship. Of the eleven originals here, four--"Tales of Brave Ulysses," "SWLABR," "Strange Brew," and "Sunshine of Your Love"--earned major airplay. This, their excess-free greatest moment, does the Cream legend proud. --Bill Holdship

Customer Reviews:

Cream Lives On........2007-07-21

First let me prejudice myself by saying I'm a big fan of music from the sixties and seventies. I'm in my late forties so this is what I grew up listening to. I recall my parents thinking this was loud and obnoxious. Now they can say that it's listenable. I wonder if I will feel that way with some of the terrible music being recorded today. Of course you have a lot more choices today but, perhaps you shouldn't. I still love this recording!. Sunshine of your Love is one of all time favorite songs. It's stood the test of time. Disraeli Gears is a classic.

In Depth review of notable tracks.......2007-06-12

Disraeli Gears is Creams second studio recording after Fresh Cream. The name came from a Driver commenting on racing bikes when Ginger and Clapton were disscussing bikes in the car. They thought it was funny so they named the album after the joke. Ginger Baker was once a racing cyclist which helped develop the strong leg muscles for the drums.

Strange Brew is the first track on the album. This combines pop with the blues. The guitar riff is from a Little Walter song "Everythings Gonna Be Alright." This song was the first one to be recorded for the album, but it was gonna be a cover of a Junior Wells tune "Hey Lawdy Mama." But their manager wanted to be on the London radio show Top of the Pops so Felix Papaladi (producer) wrote the lyrics for a pop song. Clapton let this go cause he was able to play a blues solo.

Sunshine of Your Love is probably the most recognizable riff in all classic rock music. Written after an all night session, Pete Brown saw the sun come up... "It's getting near dawn..." Jack Bruce took his double bass and came up with that jazzy riff that just pulls your ears in like magnets. During the recording sessions, the engineer Tom Dowd suggested Ginger Baker to play an Indian like drum pattern like in the old western movies. The sound just pulls everything together and Ginger is still able to show off and break up the beat to make it his own.

Tales of Brave Ulysses is a combination of music composed by Clapton and lyrics by an artist named Martian Sharp who designed the cover. It's also the introduction to the Wah Wah pedal which sounds so clean and fitting to the song. SWLABR stands for she walks like a bearded rainbow. This songs about a man defacing a picture of his x girlfriend because of the break up.

We're Going Wrong is about an argument Jack had with his wife. The sounds build steadily like their trying to reach somewhere but not quite reaching the peak. Jacks voice is at its best.

Outside Woman Blues is a great cover of a Blind Joe Reynolds song which is great for an electric guitar. Clapton was great at giving old blues tunes new life.

Take It Back is an anti Vietnam song about a draftee ripping up the draft card. Overall this is Creams best record, combining great inventive sounds.

Pure Classic Rock.......2007-05-13

Anyone who remembers real classic rock from the 60's knows this CD is a must have. It makes it easy in CD form to hear it and has good sound qualty, having been re-mastered. I think it's fantastic to have something from a great band that only lasted a brief time.

cream of Cream.......2007-05-12

Ginger, Eric and Jack are the three wisemen of 60's rock and roll, mostly because they made great music and survived the decade. This is THE definitive psychedelic mind-trippin CD for anyone's 'hey I wanna listen to the true old school' collection.

The first great rock album from Cream .......2007-05-01

The first real Cream album that showcased the talents of all the members. Some great compositions-"Tales of Brave Ulysses", "Dance the Night Away", "Sunshine of Your Love", "Outside Woman Blues", "S.W.L.A.B.R" (don't ask me what that stands for) and "Strange Brew". The only 2 tracks that detract from an otherwise great album are "Blue Condition" and "Mother's Lament". "We're Going Wrong" might take a few plays to be appealing. Otherwise the album is a good indication of what is to follow on "Wheels of Fire" in the studio recordings. I wore the LP out I played it that often. A must-have for any Cream follower.

Average customer rating: Becoming One's Parents PASS THE TEQUILA! AND LISTEN TO THE BRASS! ONE OF MY FAVORITES Vintage Delights Excellent Music Whipped Cream: Not for the Lactose Intolerant.

Whipped Cream & Other Delights (40th Anniversary Edition) Herb Alpert & The Tijuana Brass Manufacturer: Shout Factory ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music General | Jazz | Styles | Music General | Pop | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music General | Easy Listening | Pop | Styles | Music Orchestral Pop | Easy Listening | Pop | Styles | Music $8.99 and Under | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Pop | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Alternative Rock | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Jazz | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music All Blowout Music | Blowout Music | Stores | Music $8.99 and Under | Prices | Blowout Music | Stores | Music More Titles at Least 25% Off | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: South Of The Border Going Places The Lonely Bull What Now My Love Whipped Cream & Other Delights Rewhipped ASIN: B0007MRXUQ Release Date: 2005-04-19

Tracks:

1. A Taste of Honey
2. Green Peppers
3. Tangerine
4. Bittersweet Samba
5. Lemon Tree
6. Whipped Cream
7. Love Potion No. 9
8. Garbanzo
9. Ladyfingers
10. Butterball
11. Peanuts
12. Lollipops and Roses
13. Rosemary
14. Blueberry Park

Album Description

40th Anniversary Edition Of The Classic Album!

1965's Whipped Cream & Other Delights transformed Herb Alpert & The Tijuana into bonafide superstars, spending an incredible 8 straight weeks at the top of the charts. The album was not only memorable for its music, but for the iconic cover art which featured model Dolores Erickson strategically swathed in whipped cream. The original twelve tracks revolve around the theme of food and include such classics the triple Grammy-winning hit, "A Taste of Honey" and the Dating Game theme "Whipped Cream." This special 40th Anniversary edition features two studio bonus tracks along with a 20-page booklet and a collector's poster.

Each album in the Herb Alpert Signature Series features meticulously remastered sound, deluxe packaging, detailed liner notes, and an intro by Herb Alpert containing personal recollections and anecdotes.

Customer Reviews:

Becoming One's Parents.......2007-07-26

Well, this is one of those guilty pleasures that I shouldn't have, but I LOOOVE this album. I can recall hearing it in the late 1960s, as "old people" (i.e., 30 years old and above) listened to it, and I remember thinking "this isn't so bad." Now, the generation has turned and I'm listening to it and guess what--my kids are not complaining. The grooves and hooks are so thick you can walk on them.

PASS THE TEQUILA! AND LISTEN TO THE BRASS! ONE OF MY FAVORITES.......2007-07-12

I am repeating this story you are about to read as it gives an explanation of why I love this music so much! "Whipped Cream & Other Delights" has many of the songs on it used on the ride you are about to read about. It is one of my favorite Herb albums for that reason and I was mesmerized(as a kid)looking at that gorgeous cover! That being said....Please read on.....I have fond memories of the music of Herb Alpert! I was introduced to him at an early age as my parents were fans of his records. I didn't hear much of him again until I was coming of age in Wildwood N.J. at the age of 15 when I used to party under the boardwalk with my friends and our girlfriends underneath Hunt's Pier's "El Scrambler" ride. The ride played Herb Alpert tunes non stop! I guess you could say I became a "Man" underneath that pier with my first love listening to the Tijuana Brass. Later in life in my 30's I was taking a break from playing in a band in the local bars,I became a DJ and I would mix Herb Alpert in my mixes and buy shots of Tequila for my fans! To this day when I play these songs at parties we all look for the Tequila bottle! This is a one of a kind sound and if I were stranded on a desert island with only a few albums, Herb Alpert & the Tijuana Brass would be included in that collection! This is one of his best albums. I no longer own the original records so, I can not say if the new cd's are true to the originals. They sound fantastic to my ear!

Vintage Delights.......2007-05-14

It had been a long time since I heard this album on vinyl, but all the memories came flooding back. I had forgotten how well Herb and the guys actually played, and that each piece had its own hook! I recommend this CD as a piece of pop musical history, whose sound is every bit as fresh today as it was 40 years ago.

Excellent Music.......2007-05-10

I'm very please with my CD "Whipped Cream & Other Delights (40th Anniversary Edition)
~ Herb Alpert & The Tijuana Brass"
Jose L Franco

Whipped Cream: Not for the Lactose Intolerant........2007-04-29

1965's Whipped Cream & Other Delights transformed Dolores Erickson into the bonafide superstar of my adolescent whipped cream fantasies. Herb Alpert & The Tijuana Brass didn't do so bad, either, spending an incredible 8 straight weeks at the top of the charts. The memorable cover might have accounted for a large percentage of sales, especially among my demographic, but the music didn't hurt.

This is a prime example of the 60's "concept" album, with all of the intrumentals named after food. Lollipops & Roses." "A Taste of Honey" and the Dating Game theme "Whipped Cream." Etc. Etc. It caught the Zietgeist and rode it like a wave. Boys in Elementary School were inspired to learn the trumpet. I, among them.

I think the first record I purchased was Herb Alpert & TJB, but it wasn't this album, it was a 45 single.

I later did get this album, and several others of theirs, and then my neighbor's mother borrowed it for a wild party, and it got scratched from all the crazy drunken dancing.

Average customer rating: Please . . . Clapton Essential Eric Clapton Almost there, but should have been 2 disks The Greatest Guitarist Ever In All The Universe!!!!

The Cream of Clapton Eric Clapton Manufacturer: Polydor / Umgd ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Contemporary Blues | Blues | Styles | Music General | Pop | Styles | Music Soft Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music General | Adult Contemporary | Pop | Styles | Music Blues Rock | Rock | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Guitar Gods | Rock Guitarists | Rock | Styles | Music General | Hard Rock & Metal | Styles | Music Hard Rock | Hard Rock & Metal | Styles | Music Album-Oriented Rock (AOR) | Classic Rock | Styles | Music General | Classic Rock | Styles | Music Pop | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Classic Rock | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Rock | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Hard Rock & Metal | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music All Blowout Music | Blowout Music | Stores | Music More Titles at Least 25% Off | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Clapton Chronicles - The Best of Eric Clapton Unplugged A Decade of Hits 1969-1979 Experience Hendrix: The Best of Jimi Hendrix Lynyrd Skynyrd - All Time Greatest Hits ASIN: B000001EEA Release Date: 1995-03-07

Tracks:

1. I Feel Free
2. Sunshine Of Your Love
3. White Room
4. Crossroads
5. Badge
6. Presence Of The Lord
7. Blues Power
8. After Midnight
9. Let It Rain
10. Bell Bottom Blues
11. Layla
12. I Shot The Sheriff
13. Let It Grow
14. Knockin' On Heaven's Door
15. Hello Old Friend
16. Cocaine
17. Wonderful Tonight
18. Promises
19. I Can't Stand It

Amazon.com

For a single disc, this is an admirable chronological tour of superstar Eric Clapton's mid-'60s-to-early-'80s career. It begins too late to include his gestational work with the Yardbirds and John Mayall's Bluesbreakers. However, the singer-guitarist's days in Cream ("Sunshine of Your Love," "Crossroads," "White Room"), in Blind Faith ("Presence of the Lord"), as a fledgling solo artist ("After Midnight," "Let It Rain"), in Derek and the Dominos ("Layla," "Bell Bottom Blues"), and through the rest of the '70s ("I Shot the Sheriff," "Cocaine," "Wonderful Tonight," "Promises") to his '81 hit "I Can't Stand It" are well documented by this collection's 19 cuts. The down side is that the CD also vividly illustrates how insubstantial Clapton's work turned in the mid-'70s. But that won't be a problem for fans seeking hits. --Ted Drozdowski

Customer Reviews:

Please . . ........2007-07-14

Eric Clapton is one of the most over-rated artists ever (Carlos Santana is the top over-rated artist).

Clapton.......2007-01-19

I was very happy with my purchase and the CD was excellent! Clapton at his best!

Essential Eric Clapton.......2006-11-05

This is definately the best single-disc compilation of Eric Clapton. It covers his best years of work and there's no filler here, just excellent sound-quality songs that truly define Eric Clapton at his best. This is a must-have for his fans, as well as the casual fan. Eric Clapton truly shines on this disc. Very highly-recommended.

Almost there, but should have been 2 disks.......2006-11-04

Come on - how can anyone try to capture the career and range of Eric Clapton on a single CD? It just cannot be done. But for a single-disk set, trying to keep the price down, it is a pretty good collection.
As for some comments in other reviews - how can you hate Dire Straits? Mark Knopfler and Eric Clapton are both superb guitarists - I hope I'm not waiting in vain for the two of them to collaborate on an entire album! If you've ever seem them work together, it is truly an amazing performance. Mark Knopfler/Dire Straits is a must-listen, same as anything by Clapton.
I can rattle off several songs that should have been included -

Can't Find My Way Home
Tales of Brave Ulysses
Bad Love
Motherless Children
The Shape You're In

But the album is what it is - maybe sometime soon we'll get an even more comprehensive collection, but until then...this one IS pretty darn good.

The Greatest Guitarist Ever In All The Universe!!!! .......2006-10-13

You know, I've read interviews in which Clapton himself admitted that he could never play as well as most jazz and classical guitarists. In fact, he seems like a pretty nice guy who plays very fast notes to very simplistic rock and roll and blues songs. Rock and roll is lots of fun and has a great backbeat----but it is nonetheless simplistic and redundant. It derives from the blues and Country/Western music---again, both very emotional, genuine, and enjoyable forms of music. However, both musical genres are very simplistic and based on repetitive use of the same notes, tempos, and chord structures. Accordingly, playing the chief derivative of blues and C/W, rock music, at lightening speed does not a guitar god make---not by a long stretch. Again, Clapton himself admitted that being a "great rock guitarist" is a far cry from being one of the greatest guitarists in the world. The same holds for Jimi Hendrix and his distortion boxes, echo chambers, and wah-wah pedals. He played very loud, very distorted, and very fast notes over and over again---no nuance, no sophistication; nothing but twelve barre blues ad nauseum. Clapton himself admits his own limitations; yet weak, needy nerds out there continue to refer to him as the greatest. In what context? High volume and fast single note runs? Is that the barometer for measuring a guitarist's talent? Ever hear of Wes Montgomery, Barney Kessel, Django Reinhardt, Jimmy Bruno, Andres Segovia, Pat Martino, Charlie Christian, Herb Ellis, Eddie Lang, Lonnie Johnson, Kenny Burrell, Hank Garland, Lenny Breau, Julian Breem, Charlie Byrd, etc., etc. etc? I'm sure not. They play more than three chord, twleve barre blues until the listener is ready to puke. I actually like Eric Clapton and lots of his music, going as far back as his days with the Yardbirds and Cream. While I find his deification of Robert Johnson a bit of overkill, I think he is very talented. But I'm fairly certain even Clapton himself would laugh at the notion of any single guitarist----particularly a rock guitarist----being hailed as "the greatest." People are really dumb.

Average customer rating: Where would we be without bands like Cream? The greatest trio of all time Remastering? 5 for the music, 4 for the tracks picked The Very Best of Cream

The Very Best of Cream Cream Manufacturer: Polydor / Umgd ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Britain | British Isles | Europe | International | Styles | Music Blues Rock | Rock | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music General | Hard Rock & Metal | Styles | Music Hard Rock | Hard Rock & Metal | Styles | Music Psychedelic Rock | Classic Rock | Styles | Music Album-Oriented Rock (AOR) | Classic Rock | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Pop | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Classic Rock | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Rock | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Alternative Rock | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Hard Rock & Metal | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music International | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music All Blowout Music | Blowout Music | Stores | Music More Titles at Least 25% Off | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Experience Hendrix: The Best of Jimi Hendrix The Best Of The Doors The Who: The Ultimate Collection Blind Faith The Very Best of Deep Purple ASIN: B000002GFC Release Date: 1995-05-09

Tracks:

1. Wrapping Paper
2. I Feel Free
3. N.S.U.
4. Sweet Wine
5. I'm So Glad
6. Spoonful
7. Strange Brew
8. Sunshine Of Your Love
9. Tales Of Brave Ulysees
10. Swlabr
11. We're Going Wrong
12. White Room
13. Sitting On Top Of The World
14. Politician
15. Those Were The Days
16. Born Under A Bad Sign
17. Deserted Cities Of The Heart
18. Crossroads
19. Anyone For Tennis
20. Badge

Amazon.com

The groundbreaking work of this British psychedelic-blues supergroup deserves more thorough study, but this 20-song compilation provides a useful overview for newcomers. Eric Clapton, Jack Bruce, and Ginger Baker--virtuosos all--expanded the parameters of rock by incorporating a jazz sensibility into their distorted blues jams. This compilation mixes their odd original hits with a number of souped-up blues covers. The live version of Robert Johnson's "Crossroads" remains one of the greatest blues workouts a rock band has ever produced. Since Cream released only four albums, this set includesv most of the highlights, and it illustrates how Cream cast the seeds of heavy metal. -- Marc Greilsamer

Customer Reviews:

Where would we be without bands like Cream?.......2007-04-27

It's rather amusing to think that Cream formed over 40 years ago. They were so revolutionary, just about everything they did left a huge influence on rock bands to come. Ginger Baker is an insane drummer, and was one of, if not the very first, to use a double bass drum the way he did. Jack Bruce invented and perfected that fade-in bass technique and Eric Clapton...well, when you hear the man rip it out on this album, you know these guys were something special.
Cream was one of the first power trios around. Right after them emerged bands like Blue Cheer, Rush and The Jimi Hendrix Experience, but seriously, how many guys were playing like the boys of Cream were in '66? Now, honestly speaking, I was fairly skeptical when purchasing this, at first at least, due to the fact that I saw Clapton listed as the second greatest rock guitarist of all time. Anybody who ranks high on a list has got to be there for a reason, and he proved it to me. I literally started laughing when I heard the blazing solos on songs like "Sweet Wine" and "NSU". The last time I heard a guy that great was somebody like Eddie Van Halen or the legendary Jimi Hendrix, (I got into Hendrix before I became a guitarist, and VH just as I started.)
Clapton, Bruce and Baker form a magnificent band and the songwriting is just as strong as the musicianship. From the epic lyrics in "Tales of Brace Ulysses" to the timeless riff on "Sunshine Of Your Love", these guys could do it all. They went from psychedelic rock, blues rock, proto-metal, jazz fusion, jam rock, and a fusion of all of those elements to make a signature sound that made them the prototypical blues-rock trio that they were.

Pros:
- You get 20, great songs on this album.
- I've seen it on sale for as low as ten bucks.
- The liner notes are great, and you gotta love the psychedelic colors in the inner and outer covers!

Cons:
- Not too many negativities here, except for the recording technique that was used on the tracks from their debut, "Fresh Cream". All of the instruments are to the right and the vocals are to the left, for the most part. I would've thought that the record company would've fixed that! Oh well, it's just for a few tracks that the production is messed up.

Overall:
If you're just getting into Cream, this will make for a great album. Don't have any doubts when buying this, because you get plenty of songs at a great price. It's too bad these guys only lasted for a short time, but they really made magic in the period that they did. Cheers, and peace!

The greatest trio of all time.......2007-03-14

I have to admit, if I never heard another Credence, Motown or Doors song, I wouldn't feel like I was missing out. To be frank, many of the sounds of my boomer youth have been so overplayed on classic rock stations or used in angst-ridden movies that I find myself unable to listen to them any more. However, Cream is not one of those bands, and listening to this disc reminded me how very rich and muscular the best of that period's music could be, before it evolved into art rock like Yes, and that ilk. With the exception of Clapton's work with Derek and the Dominos, and I don't think any of these guys ever played as well as they did here, and I can't say enough about how good these songs are, even the goofy ones. Buy this, even if you're way too young to remember the band when it existed!

Remastering?.......2007-03-01

I used to think the term "remastering" was a come on dreamed up by Jimmy Page to sell old Led Zeppelin albums. I was wrong. Whoever is in charge of re-releasing the Cream catalogue should be ashamed of themselves. One of the greatest - I will dare say it - perhaps the greatest rock combo ever - has been ill served by the keepers of the catalogue. I had a cassette version of Cream's greatest hits that put the sound quality of this CD to shame. ERIC, JACK, GINGER - intervene and make sure your recordings sound crisp for posterity. You desreve better than what the corporate masters have dished out. Anyone with discriminating ears will immediately recognize that the sound quality is a triumph of profit over Cream's artistic genius. Shameful. Again (The BBC recordings are horrendous).

5 for the music, 4 for the tracks picked.......2007-02-06

The Very Best of (1995) A Cream compilation album.

Because they are my favorite band, it's hard for me to ever really be satisfied with a greatest hits album. However, I can't complain too much, because none of the songs on here are bad. In fact, they didn't really leave anything out chart-position wise, but there are some gems that would have been nice to see on here. However, people who are just casual listeners will most likely be satisfied with the selection. My only suggestion, though, would be to check out the "Gold" album. The track selection is slightly better and includes live material, though it is more expensive and is a two-disc collection.

From "Fresh Cream": Wrapping Paper, I Feel Free, NSU, Sweet Wine, I'm So Glad, Spoonful. The track selection from this album are spotless. I've no complaints about this, and I'm glad to see that they included "Wrapping Paper", one of the more overlooked Cream songs, which is not on the CD version of "Fresh Cream".

From "Disraeli Gears": Strange Brew, Sunshine of Your Love, Tales of Brave Ulysses, SWLABR, We're Going Wrong. All good, though I would have substituted "World of Pain" for "We're Going Wrong".

From "Wheels of Fire": White Room, Sitting on Top of the World, Politician, Born Under a Bad Sign, Deserted Cities of the Heart, Crossroads. This one is really subjective; all the tracks from this album are excellent, so it's more of choosing which ones you wouldn't mind being left off. Personally, I would have switched "Deserted Cities" for "As You Said".

From "Goodbye": Badge. This was a popular song, though I don't care for it. The final album wasn't very good, so if they had to pick something, it would have to be this one. "Anyone For Tennis" was released purely as a single and belongs to no album.

Overall, the track selections may leave something to be desired. If you're a tried and true Cream fan, just buy the albums, there's only four of them, and only the first three are the ones you want.

The Very Best of Cream.......2007-01-09

I got this CD as a Christmas gift for a friend, and she absolutely loved
it. I was impressed with the timely manner in which it arrived. I would
use this vendor again.

Average customer rating: Top Ten A magnificent offering.... The best mix of studio & live Cream "CREAM EXPLODES!!!!!" Their best, hands down

Wheels of Fire Cream Manufacturer: Polydor / Umgd ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Blues Rock | Rock | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Blues Rock | Live Albums | Rock | Styles | Music General | Live Albums | Rock | Styles | Music General | Hard Rock & Metal | Styles | Music Hard Rock | Hard Rock & Metal | Styles | Music Psychedelic Rock | Classic Rock | Styles | Music Album-Oriented Rock (AOR) | Classic Rock | Styles | Music General | Live Albums | Classic Rock | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Pop | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Classic Rock | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Rock | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Alternative Rock | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Hard Rock & Metal | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music All Blowout Music | Blowout Music | Stores | Music More Titles at Least 25% Off | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Disraeli Gears Fresh Cream Goodbye Blind Faith Live Cream ASIN: B0000067L3 Release Date: 1998-04-07

Tracks:

1. In The Studio: White Room
2. In The Studio: Sitting On The Top Of The World
3. In The Studio: Passing The Time
4. In The Studio: As You Said
5. In The Studio: Pressed Rat And Warthog
6. In The Studio: Politician
7. In The Studio: Those Were The Days
8. In The Studio: Born Under A Bad Sign
9. In The Studio: Deserted Cities Of The Heart

Tracks:

1. Live At The Fillmore: Crossroads
2. Live At The Fillmore: Spoonful
3. Live At The Fillmore: Traintime
4. Live At The Fillmore: Toad

Customer Reviews:

Top Ten.......2007-06-12

This album may not be "THE BEST" album of the era,but it certainly ranks up there with the top ten.Spoonfull is one of the most underappreciated rock and roll songs of our time.

A magnificent offering...........2007-06-08

This album really epitomizes what Cream was about. They were both marvels live and in the studio, and never was that shown better than in this album. Jack Bruce and Peter Brown were amazingly prolific writers, and their best songs are all here. White Room is deserving of its classic (with a really good, intricate drum workout by Ginger Baker), and As You Said is another gentle, charming song. Passing the Time is really beautiful (showing Baker could write great songs too). I love Politician, whose chorus "I support the left, though I'm leaning, leaning to the right" still rings true today. The live stuff is phenomenal, especially the epic cover of Spoonful and Bruce's blues workout Train Time. The only song I could do without was Toad. It starts out well, but Baker's drum solo isn't very dynamic, and it goes on much too long. If Baker and Bruce had gotten along better (contrary to popular belief, it wasn't Clapton feuding with his other band mates, but Baker and Bruce, who had a bit of a history before Cream), Cream would have kept making great albums for a while. Nevertheless, this is a great album, Cream's best.

The best mix of studio & live Cream.......2007-05-01

The pinnacle of Cream's achievements. Jack Bruce gives a taste of his considerable talents as a multi-faceted musician: string instruments, bass, keyboards as well as a couple other instruments show how remarkable he is. EC starts contributing more with vocals and multi-layer guitar tracks on the studio offerings. Ginger Baker shows that you don't have to be fancy to be great; the "less is more" philosophy is evident on "Sitting on Top of the World"-just enough for the feel of the track without overpowering it. Some bizarre name tracks on the studio offerings but if you can preview them first with an open mind and you may be surprised at how some may start appealing to you (Pressed Rat and Warthog, As You Said). This also kind of foreshadows what happens to groups when they put out a double album--it seems to show them at their peak and most times the offerings that follow just don't seem to have the same energy and appeal. The live tracks show the raw talent of each member without any tricks or gimmicks-just great musicianship. Of course it has the requisite drum solo track that was a part of the '60's rock legacy, but still a great title to have in your collection and a must-have for the Cream aficionado!

"CREAM EXPLODES!!!!!".......2007-02-19

Yes. I am still at this farm in Michigan. Why? Becaue I have promised myself to stay here for peace and quiet while I review the Cream albums. But, tragedy struck again. Seems Bossy (the cow) somehow ate up all of Metamorpho's food supply and I had to walk 30 miles to the nearest food store. (Magic Seer's carpet was in for repair), So I set out and realized that I had left my fur-lined Seer's cape at home when a snow storm surprised me on the way. Luckily, a man in an old Dodge pick-up truck picked me up and gave me a ride. Amazingly, he recognized me and, for the price of an autographed picture, gave me a return trip! What luck! But, I suppose for being spiritual (and a friend of the Universe), one is entitled to such perks. Nevermind all that. Cream's EXCELLENT "Wheels of Fire" awaits us all.
I must elucidate on these reviews. They are done, not only because the band is so reknown, but to explain why they are so. Positively, in the psychedelic sense, they progressed and moved the music into more formidable areas. What is so amazing is that they made this double c.d. set to show you what they are capable of in the studio- and live! And this shows you the real talent behind this band. Not only could they construct inticate landscapes and unknown terrain in the studio-but also be mega as far as live recording. This was confidence of the highest order. And it shines through miraculously.
What do we have here exactly? We have Cream adhering to their "traditional" blues roots. On the first part they tackle Howlin' Wolf's excellent "Sitting On Top of the World" as well as "Politician" which is the best Howlin' Wolf song not written by Howlin' Wolf (accolades to Jack Bruce on this one). "Born Under a Bad Sign" also reflects the blues-but in a more controlled and upbeat fashion. Definitely superb! The second part-needless to say, extends blues in live fashion and never lets up. The jams, the leads, are to die for (I hate to be banal but even Metamorpho has laspes sometime).
I can not say enough about Jack Bruce on the first part. Superb songwriting and construction. He extends himself to bleak areas. "White Room", although pristine, gets soiled by disappointment. The lively riff is juxtaposed against feelings; and especially lines like "where the shadows run from themselves" are as vivid and unique and understood as being exemplary. "As You Said" employs his wonderful acoustic guitar (with cellos!) and interesting construction insofar as chords and keys. What are they Jack? Sharps and flats I am sure, but maybe 5ths, 9ths, and sustained? This is his songwriting. Other-worldy and quite a marvel. "Deserted Cities of the Heart" has a little of this added as well. Ginger Baker adds his unusual "Pressed Rat and Warthog" (a talky piece with horns even alternately between two chords!). But, recovers and proves himself with "Those Were the Days". The best Jack Bruce tune not written by Jack Bruce.
On part two we have his blues jam "Traintime". Can almost imagine the train click-clacking along with this harmonica inspired number. We also have Ginger Baker's wonderous drum solo again in "Toad". Much better than the original studio recording, if you ask Metamorpho. "Spoonful" is much more precise and measured. A true joy. But, then we get to the "core" of exhileration. "Crossroads", in itself, is worth the purchase of this classic c.d. Clapton's lead transcends human boundaries (and, when listened to loud, will bounce you off the walls! Just as it has done to your beloved Seer since he listened to it many Seer moons ago!). This, I feel, was the peak of Clapton's power. Yes. He certainly has done many other excellent things ("Wonderful Tonight" just doesn't even compare to this). But, as raw live power- nothing rivals this, except Jimi at his finest. Take my word.
In short (!) a classic double album by one of the very best. And do remember that the cover (which your Metamorpho has tried to embed himself in and has gotten bounced out each and every time) reflected like sheer aluminum. How sad the times have compromised true value. But, you always have imagination. So says Metamorpho.
Like to thank T and Johnny L for their support. After all, they are better than absent guides in the long run.
So. That's it. One more review and I'm out of this Michigan farm. For Cream reviews, farm living is the place to stay- but I get allergic smelling hay. Ah. So it goes.
To all who support Metamorpho-your check is in the mail.
To those who don't-a check to the homeless shelter.
Have fun!

Bossy packs a mean hoove lead! ----------Metamorpho

Their best, hands down.......2007-02-06

Wheels of Fire (1968) Cream's third studio album.

One of the biggest debates among Cream fans and music fans alike is whether or not "Wheels of Fire" is better than "Disraeli Gears". Honestly, both albums are ultimately powerful, so it comes down to your personal taste. Cream is my favorite band, and "Wheels of Fire" is not only my favorite Cream album, it's my favorite album of all time. The reason is very simple; experimentation.

Cream had developed their sound after their debut, fusing blues-rock with the new wave of psychedelia. Once that had been established, Cream took it one step further on "Wheels of Fire".

There's the opener, "White Room", one of Cream's most heralded songs. Here we see the psychedelic side of the band, with an unusual 5/4 time signature and a killer guitar solo. We also see the psychedelic stuff on tracks like "Pressed Rat and Warthog" and "Those Were the Days". What this album is probably better known for, though, is its reworking of old blues songs, as well as adding new ones. The covers of both "Crossroads" and "Born Under A Bad Sign" are amazing, and the original bass riff that Bruce constructed on "Politician" is one of my favorites. It was with this album that Cream further pressed the hard-rock cusp.

The experimentation, which I mentioned earlier, is what really draws me to this album. The strange, psychedelic/prog/alternative sound of "Passing the Time" (one of Baker's best contributions to Cream) is insane, and the acoustic guitar that Clapton strums on in "As You Said" is incredible. We truly get a taste of what Cream would have been capable of, being that they were excellent songwriters in their own respect as well as fantastic musicians.

The second disc, "Live at the Fillmore", is where some fans have complaints. I actually don't have any problems with the extended improv acts that they put on, because their reworking of "Spoonful" and Baker's extensive solo on "Toad" are both great. And, as I have said, it features one of the greatist guitar performances not only by Clapton, but by any guitarist period. I speak of the immortal "Crossroads".

SUGGESTION: Of the three good Cream albums (I'm excluding "Goodbye"), you should listen to this one last. Start with "Disraeli Gears" and then "Fresh Cream". Because the sound on this album is so different and innovative, it may not be kind to the ear during the first listen. But believe me, it's a masterpiece, and it will grow on you.

Average customer rating: Fresh Cream release dates 20 years since I've heard the pure heart of this band's 1st My favorite Cream Album The Les Paul/Marshall demonstration record Part 2 CREAM STARTING........

Fresh Cream Cream Manufacturer: Polydor / Umgd ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Blues Rock | Rock | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music General | Hard Rock & Metal | Styles | Music Hard Rock | Hard Rock & Metal | Styles | Music Psychedelic Rock | Classic Rock | Styles | Music Album-Oriented Rock (AOR) | Classic Rock | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music $7.99 and Under | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Pop | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Classic Rock | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Rock | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Alternative Rock | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Hard Rock & Metal | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music All Blowout Music | Blowout Music | Stores | Music $7.99 and Under | Prices | Blowout Music | Stores | Music More Titles at Least 25% Off | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Disraeli Gears Goodbye Wheels of Fire Blind Faith Layla and Other Assorted Love Songs ASIN: B0000067L1 Release Date: 1998-04-07

Tracks:

1. I Feel Free
2. N.S.U.
3. Sleepy Time Time
4. Dreaming
5. Sweet Wine
6. Spoonful
7. Cat's Squirrel
8. Four Until Late
9. Rollin' And Tumblin'
10. I'm So Glad
11. Toad

Customer Reviews:

Fresh Cream release dates.......2007-04-18

A note about Fresh Cream's release date(s). I read in a Cream bio that the US release date of Fresh Cream was March 1967. The UK release date being December 1966. The US record was under a different record label than the UK label. If these dates are true people in the US did not hear this excellent album until a couple months into 1967.

20 years since I've heard the pure heart of this band's 1st.......2007-03-27

music quality is fantastic, my shipping was combined to save money...what can I say---great! good photos and liner notes.

My favorite Cream Album.......2007-03-09

Many think that this album is inferior compared to other Cream albums. This is my favorite Cream album, Clapton's guitar work is beyond compare. "Spoonful", "I Feel Free" and "Sweet Wine" show Clapton's talent as a top guitarist as well as his talent as a blues musician on blues songs "Sleepy Time Time", "I'm So Glad" and "Cats Squirrel" as well as his lead vocal on "Four until Late." Gingers drumming is also at its peak on his showpiece "Toad" as well as doing more than keeping time on "Sweet Wine" and others. Jack Bruce's range as a vocalist combined with his talent as a bass and harmonica player are shown on this album more than on any other Cream Album. Though many of the songs aren't original, they sound like no other band when coming from Cream. I would take this album over any other made by Cream, or any other band!

The Les Paul/Marshall demonstration record Part 2.......2007-02-20

Highly recommended for the unbelievable "creamy" guitar tone on these 4 tracks Sleepy Time Time -Spoonful -Cat's Squirrel -I'm So Glad.
This album and the "beano" Bluesbreakers album are the reason was people still use the Gibson Les Paul in rock 40 years after these recordings, period.

CREAM STARTING...............2007-02-09

Well, I still haven't found this person named Jack (if that's who it really is) who is lecturing under my name in the South. I have heard no mountainside rumblings, no manic mummerings, no foistered fanfare. So, I can only assume all is well and that it is safe again in Metamorpho Land.
Now if only someone could tame that dragon in the west quarter of my castle, then I would be a most happy Seer. But, hey, can we ever have everything go perfectly right in our lives? You answer no? How negative. Let's move on.
Ahhh.... here comes Fresh Cream to relax your inner inhabitions. Yes - the beginning of the power trio. And what a fine beginning it is! Eric Clapton (you know him?), Jack Bruce and Ginger Baker. Three extraordinary musicians. And this album only portends greater things yet to come.
Alot of this album is a hybrid of traditional American blues interpreted by quality British musicians. It is amazing, when you look back, that so many English artists of this era were so taken with the blues. But we are so much better for them putting their own spin, their own staple on this genre.
Jack Bruce, in the compostional sense, took the edge off a little with his original songs. But they somehow always had a sort of "bluesy" aura about them and some mystical rock thrown in. Listen to "I Feel Free" and you'll know what I mean. In fact, throughout this amazing debut, they expound that freedom and stretch the lines further than many conceived of at that time. Clapton (who was shy, I suppose, initially) did not contribute any songs and only arranged a Robert Johnson tune (Four Until Late). This left Jack Bruce and Ginger Baker to fill in the writing chores while relying on standards by the likes of Muddy Waters and Willie Dixon. Quite a combination I would say.
The album moves from an uplifting vibration, to slower blues, to sweet harmonic grooves, to harmonica rough realizion. Such a mix. Listen to Jack Bruce's dreamy "Dreaming" and then the bluesy harmonica rave of "Rollin' and Tumblin'" and you get a firm idea of the diversity of this band. Clapton's leads are succint but essential. He grows from this point to masterful leads in later albums. Jack Bruce also uses the bass as an essential ingredient in the music. Matches Clapton note for note. And the undeniable talent of Ginger Baker cannot be questioned. Just listen to "Toad". Remarkable.
To conclude - this is a very respectable first album by giants of the trade. Surely to hear it, you too will be singing "I'm So Glad" as well.
I have really given it a 4 and a half rating. I am not exactly thrilled over the clarity - but it is a minor complaint when compared to the accomplishment.
Now I must go. You know that you're all invited over to have some coffee with Metamorpho. Just don't forget to bring some cream.....
From where the cows graze--------- Metamorpho

Average customer rating: It will have you jamming!!! yayess!!! An Unfortunate End To A Great Band.... The Clock Was Ticking Them boys good

Ice Cream Castle The Time Manufacturer: Warner Bros / Wea ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | R&B | Styles | Music General | Soul | R&B | Styles | Music General | Funk | R&B | Styles | Music Party Boys | Warner Brothers Records | Stores | Music Similar Items: What Time Is It? The Time The Glamorous Life The Color of Success Controversy ASIN: B000002L66 Release Date: 1990-10-25

Tracks:

1. Ice Cream Castles
2. My Drawers
3. Chili Sauce
4. Jungle Love
5. If The Kid Can't Make You Come
6. The Bird

Amazon.com

Whew! If you thought Jodeci and Dru Hill were the masters of putting sex into soul, think again. The Time are anything but subtle: there are tracks laced with heavy breathing, words like "straddle" and lines like "I wanna get you off, baby" are commonplace, and they're completed with a sultry style of soul that is equally as enticing in its uptempo forms (the very '80s-sounding "Jungle Love," "My Drawers") as it is in slow doses (the raw "Chili Sauce" and "If the Kid Can't Make You Come"). Even the more mellow, midtempo funk like "Ice Cream Castles" is addictive. The Time make you realize there's more to old-school funk than just George Clinton and Parliament. --Rebecca Wallwork

Customer Reviews:

It will have you jamming!!!.......2007-07-25

The Time definitely will have you on their dials with this album. Funk music at it's finest. Every song on this album is stellar, especially Jungle Love, and the Bird. I wish that they would get the recognition that they deserve.

yayess!!!.......2007-04-24

The most successful(mainstream wise) of The Time albums...largely in part to the Comedy provided by Morris and Jerome in "purple rain"...this album isn't about Prince though...it's personality screams MORRIS E. DAY..."Chili Sauce" is Halerious!..."if the kid can't make ya cum"...is for the true Time fans. The anthums are of course "Jungle Love"...&"The Bird"...This is an album that should have been the Time's coming out party and launched them into the mainstream audience but like so many bands of the past...they broke up...Success followed quite a bit of the band...Jesse Johnson"s Revue...Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis...Morris was the biggest star but he fizzeled out to say the least...still this album lives on thru the Old School dancefloor's of today...This is a real good taste of Prince's creative side being allowed to live thru the "Drawers" of Morris Day and the Time.This album is a must for those who are taken in by the "Minniapolis Music Sound"...i was and still am...(Mazarati, the family, Tamara and the Scene, Alexander O'neil) the Time were among the pioneers of the Stage showmanship to come fronm the 80's...this album is Danceable and fun!!!

An Unfortunate End To A Great Band...........2007-03-08

We all know the story surrounding The Time. Prince wrote for and produced them and put the group together. Unfortunately because of his alpha male syndrome he exerted too much control over the band until they imploded. Ice Cream Castles reflects the tension that was going on in the group (infighting, Prince's dominance). Somehow with Terry, Jimmy and Monte leaving-well being fired by Prince in the case of Terry and Jimmy, the chemistry seemed no longer to be there. Don't get me wrong, Morris was very charismatic and a great lead man and Jesse Johnson on guitar was simply unbelievable, but the spirit and thrill seems to be gone as it seems as if they are just going through the motion. The album seems as though it is pieced together. The title track "Ice Cream Castles" is a mesmerizing song about love and harmony-which is ironic because there was nothing harmonious about climate the group was working in-I love the song but it does seem a tad bit out of place given the songs that proceed it. The synthed out "My Drawers" is a bit of an oddity-but it'll do. I don't need to talk about "Chilli Sauce" which acts as filler. Morris even uses the same line he uses in Purple Rain-the bit about having "a brass waterbed" and having "an Italian cook". The song "If the Kid Can't Make You Come" is not at all satisfying. Then there are the songs for which the band is best remembered, "Jungle Love" and "The Bird" which are hot tracks and the stand outs on this album.

The Time was an extremely talented R&B/Funk band that was not allowed to flourish. Prince was indeed a genius-this has already been established. The problem is he should have given the group the opportunity to have some artistic freedom (something that he ironically preaches day and night about these days). By the time he "allowed" the group to be involved in the process it was too late-Morris and Jesse were headed on their way out of the door. I think Prince never intended them to be anything more than just an opening act. When they began to outshine and upstage him in their live shows-where the music sounded as good if not better than the studio album-he would pull dirty tricks like demoting them. He played too many games-I mean the stories are legendary I'm surprised they endured as long as they did (which was only 3 or 4 years!). I love Prince he is probably my favorite artist of all time-but The Time is a sore spot for me because I love this band and I long for what they could have been. Who knows what the band would have become-unfortunately we'll never know.

The Clock Was Ticking.......2007-02-18

In the life imitating art category was the Morris Day - Prince feud that ultimately found The Time clocking out of the music scene. Such a rivalry was the plot to the movie, Purple Rain.

Ice Cream Castle features music from the movie and is highlighted by the funk rave-up, The Bird. Even today you have to get those arms moving up & down when the beat heats up.

Another dance club gem is Jungle Love, as My Drawers keeps the pace swift, while the catchy title track has a midtempo clip. The facetious lyrics in Chili and If The Kid Can't Make You Come rounds out one of the most satisfying Prince projects from the 1980s.

Prince was building a recording dynasty with a lineup of artists who would dominate the charts. The Time was arguably the best group from that impressive roster.

Them boys good.......2006-11-23

After the sucess of Purple Rain, The Time seemed destined to be huge. Prince was talented but Morris was a cool a jerk you just wanted to hang out with. The CD includes tehe huge hits Junge Love and The Bird both of which can still get a party started. Also worth noting is the ballad If The Kid Can't Make You Come.

Average customer rating: Snow Cones for Pavlov's Puppies

Songs For Ice Cream Trucks Michael Hearst Manufacturer: Bar/None Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Rock | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Similar Items: Betcha Bottom Dollar Nixon and Kissinger: Partners in Power Hey Eugene! Into White The Reminder ASIN: B000R3486C Release Date: 2007-06-12

Tracks:

1. Ice Cream!
2. Where Do Ice Cream Trucks Go In the Winter?
3. The Popsicle parade
4. Before I Drive Away (Redux)
5. Five Up
6. Tones For Cones
7. One For Doran
8. Ice Cream Yo!
9. What¹s Your Favorite Flavor?
10. Chocolate, Vanilla or Swirl?
11. The Moose Track Shake
12. The Sprinkle Twinkle
13. Before I Drive Away

Customer Reviews:

Snow Cones for Pavlov's Puppies.......2007-07-13

Yeah, why not?

With all this technology around us, with music coming at us from all angles, why are ice cream trucks still driving around emitting the same twenty second loop of a glockenspiel playing "Turkey in a Straw"? Why not some new music?

Forget the parents, forget the kids, think of the poor ice cream truck dudes. I bet some new tunes would do wonders for their spirits. I don't know how it is in other regions, but out here we have an epidemic of grumpy ice cream men, which can be a bit of a bummer.

Despite the potential, this is not a boring album. Mike Hearst has undertaken an exercise, which is to write music in the spirit of traditional circus music or ice cream truck music, but make it new and refreshing. Listen for yourself, but I think he pulled it off. It's got calliopes, glockenspiels, the occasional choir, in nice little waltzes and foxtrots, and with enough repetition to approximate the simplicity and feel of the more traditional tunes. But he adds enough variation to keep it palatable. Plus, there are some tasty, sinister undercurrents in these compositions, warbling forays into minor modes, to remind us that the ice cream truck is a parasitic capitalist appendage intruding into the naïve serenity of our playgrounds to extort parents and condition the palates of our children.

Average customer rating: I'm So Glad It Happened Excellent production; generous selection of tunes Best Classic Rock DVD EVER! Very Disappointed the best power group ever

Royal Albert Hall: London May 2-3-5-6 2005 Cream Manufacturer: Reprise / Wea ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Britain | British Isles | Europe | International | Styles | Music Blues Rock | Rock | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Blues Rock | Live Albums | Rock | Styles | Music General | Live Albums | Rock | Styles | Music General | Hard Rock & Metal | Styles | Music Hard Rock | Hard Rock & Metal | Styles | Music Psychedelic Rock | Classic Rock | Styles | Music General | Live Albums | Classic Rock | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Similar Items: Cream - Royal Albert Hall - London May 2-3-5-6 2005 Cream - Farewell Concert Back Home A Bigger Bang Prairie Wind ASIN: B000AYEIZY Release Date: 2005-10-04

Tracks:

1. I'm So Glad
2. Spoonful
3. Outside Woman Blues
4. Pressed Rat & Warthog
5. Sleepy Time Time
6. N.S.U.
7. Badge
8. Politician
9. Sweet Wine
10. Rollin' & Tumblin'
11. Stormy Monday
12. Deserted Cities of the Heart
13. Born Under A Bad Sign
14. We're Going Wrong
15. Crossroads
16. Sitting On Top of the World
17. White Room
18. Toad
19. Sunshine of Your Love

Amazon.com

After a 37 year absence Cream reformed in May 2005 for a series of concerts at the Royal Albert Hall, the stage of their last UK performance. As befitting a trio whose focus was always squarely on the music, they emerge to no fanfare, briefly test their instruments and launch into the perfectly apt "I'm So Glad." Drawing from each of their four studio albums, they revisit the songs for their inherent resonance and as a springboard for their instrumental interplay. There's no need to update the material, as it all still fits each of the three men like a thousand dollar suit. Bruce's vocals still soar with operatic bearing, Clapton sounds energized, freed from the production cushioning on his own recordings, and Baker, now in his mid-sixties, can still dazzle with his solo turn on "Toad." --David Greenberger

Album Description

Cream, the legendary band of Ginger Baker, Jack Bruce and Eric Clapton, performed for the first time in 37 years in May 2005. One of the most highly anticipated reunions in rock, the concert at London's Royal Albert Hall-where the band played its farewell show November 26, 1968-returned to the stage the trio that forever changed rock 'n' roll. Now the best of those historic peformances are available on Royal Albert Hall London May 2-3-5-6 2005. This is classic Classic Rock. A companion DVD is being released utilizing different takes of the same tracks.

Customer Reviews:

I'm So Glad It Happened.......2007-05-27

As the author of the Jefferson Airplane book "Take Me To A Circus Tent" I would obviously be a tremendous fan of a band of Cream's magnitude.

If you want to call their first go around "Power Trio", "Supergroup", or both you would be correct. Jack Bruce had a voice that could mesmerize a nation and their ability to improvise was nothing short of spectacular. The London subway walls were filled with admiration (Alright it was graffiti) for Eric's solos, Ginger's unique style, and Jack's thunderous bass-lines.

Cream could take the 5 minute tune and even when it reached 18 minutes you still would hang on every note.

The brief reunion tour was a bit different in their approach. You didn't have 20 minute jams and they played the songs closer to what a Derek & The Dominos show would be but to be able to experience the three of them on stage again is well worth the shorter improvisation and less intense solos.

Don't get me wrong. Jack Bruce can be proud of his voice to this day and when you watched him play the bass, men and women half is age feel far inferior. Ginger may have held back a bit on the drums but in no way did he detract from the pure joy of the reunion.

The songs for the most part were what you thought. A fanatic like myself would have liked something out of the blue such as "Those Were The Days" or "What A Bring Down" but I was too busy sitting on top of the world during the festivities.

For the younger fan see why they were "The Cream." For us old folks, we can feel a bit more youthful.

Be well always,
Craig Fenton
Author of the Jefferson Airplane book "Take Me To A Circus Tent"

Excellent production; generous selection of tunes.......2007-04-24

This is an extremely well produced concert DVD both visually and sound-wise. The band is in very good form though it would be unfair to expect them to be at their highest peak. They are very well-coordinated musically on the tunes but they have all lost the slightest bit of edge on their playing and singing - not that you would notice it unless you have each note of all of their tunes committed to memory.

Still they are head an shoulders above most of the rest and the DVD is a joy and a must have for fans of the band and younger rock aficionados as well.

Best Classic Rock DVD EVER!.......2007-04-09

A review I read about the Live CD's of Cream in the 1960's not inspiring, well I can say to you, "Cream's reunion 2005 DVD". I can not stop watching this performance, it is so outstanding. Eric Clapton's fantastic guitar work during this reunion is inspirational, and is essential listening to any Cream or Eric Clapton fan.
Eric, with original members Jack Bruce and Ginger Baker performing like the superstars of old, rock the Albert Hall to the delight of thousands who were fortunate enough to be there. For us, the unlucky, this great 2 DVD Set can be ordered, and when played on a surround sound/ big screen system, this show comes alive. With outstanding editing, a high quality soundtrack, excellant near HD quality picture, this concert is at the top of my top ten list. This DVD sets the standard for outstanding music DVD videos.

Very Disappointed.......2007-03-28

I saw them live, I have all the Original LP's I watched the 1968 concert on the BBC. This offering is far removed from the way I remember them. All of cream are the same age as I am, and it showed. Poor Jack was recovering from surgery and has lost is voice and stamina. Ginger was subdued but who would have expected him to still be alive. Eric, well he was just going through the motions. But the biggest criticism, as mentioned by others, was Clapton using the strat' instead of the Les Paul Gibson. They just didn't sound right. Having said this, it's Cream I bought the CD anyway.

the best power group ever.......2007-03-14

This CD is unbelievable. These guys were beyond awesome in concert. The quality of this recording is superb. Jack Bruce singing "We're going wrong" is the most wonderful song on the CD. I was in N.Y. to see them live last year and could not believe the power this group of guys have. You must buy the DVD of their London appearence. Watch Jack Bruce sing "we'er going wrong" and enjoy one of the worlds best bands ever put together.

Average customer rating: "CREAM RECOILS" What Happened? Not Really An Album Cream's Expiration Date Second-best Cream album

Goodbye Cream Manufacturer: Polydor / Umgd ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Blues Rock | Rock | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Blues Rock | Live Albums | Rock | Styles | Music General | Live Albums | Rock | Styles | Music General | Hard Rock & Metal | Styles | Music Hard Rock | Hard Rock & Metal | Styles | Music Psychedelic Rock | Classic Rock | Styles | Music Album-Oriented Rock (AOR) | Classic Rock | Styles | Music General | Live Albums | Classic Rock | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music $7.99 and Under | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Pop | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Classic Rock | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Rock | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Alternative Rock | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Hard Rock & Metal | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music All Blowout Music | Blowout Music | Stores | Music $7.99 and Under | Prices | Blowout Music | Stores | Music More Titles at Least 25% Off | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Fresh Cream Disraeli Gears Wheels of Fire Live Cream Live Cream, Vol. 2 ASIN: B0000067L4 Release Date: 1998-04-07

Tracks:

1. I'm So Glad
2. Politician
3. Sitting On Top Of The World
4. Badge
5. Doing That Scrapyard Thing
6. What A Bringdown

Customer Reviews:

"CREAM RECOILS".......2007-02-20

I am now circling around that now famous farm house in a sharecropper twin engine. I am leaving. Yes. I have my trusty laptop here to write this review. You see, I had to leave. With Bossy eating all my food and that incessant rooster each morning-it was all too much for your beloved Metamorpho. Besides, I was fearful that my reviews would become tepid in that quiet atmosphere. Ahhhh...poor Bossy. I can see her languid, sad eyes from here. Wait...is that a tear I see? Do cows cry? I will ask my guides. Definitely a question for the ages.
Cream's fourth and final album (from that era) comprised many of the same elements that "Wheels of Fire" did. In it, they bring out fine live performances on "I'm So Glad", "Politician" and "Sitting on Top of the World". In some instances they are superior to the original studio versions. That said, their jams are most noteworthy for their expert play and interplay. It is good to here raw, live sound. However, not everyone may be happy with their excess. It all depends on what side of the barn you chose, so to moo. In any event, Baker, Bruce and Clapton give all musicians notice with their talent.
The rest of the album are studio originals. The best of these, I feel, is Clapton's "Badge". Starts off fine enough with the addition of piano. But it soon reveals itself with the insistent middle, allowing Clapton to add some spicy guitar work. I won't interpret the lyrics and I won't argue with swans who live in the pond. Who could? Bossy lives on a farm. Take that Eric! Then it's Jack Bruce's turn with "Doing that Scrapyard Thing". It is too sing-song for my taste. And, again, the words prove nothing but psychedelic rants. Not as interesting as his songs on "Wheels of Fire". However, the jumpy rythmn of Ginger's "What a Bringdown" proves to be another surprise from him. Nothing exceptional - but a nice sprightly tune in it's own right. The original tunes here do sound like Cream was winding down at the time. No timely riffs, no awesom bass or drums. Too bad they broke up but by judging this, I can see they were really tired after their burst of creativity. Still - I gave this 4 and 1/2 because Cream on a bad day was still better than most on a good one.
Well, that's it. I do have some surprises for you next. It has already been thought out. Like chess, your Metamorpho is always two or three steps ahead. I am now heading home to my Scottish Castle and my warm fireplace. It is there where I will contemplate my next ponderous, anxious mayhem.

Moo-ving right along --your delectable Metamorpho

What Happened?.......2007-02-06

Goodbye (1969) Cream's fourth studio album.

Although they are my favorite band, this is the absolute definition of mediocre. There was almost no effort put into this album, and it's as if Bruce, Baker, and Clapton didn't feel like they owed their fans a grand finale. It's too bad that they had to break up so soon, because based on the previous albums, they grew better and better, and it didn't look like there was going to be much in the way to stop them. That unfortunately didn't happen. There isn't much that's enjoyable here. Sure, the live material isn't bad, but it's not breathtaking either.

The studio side is really subpar as well. "Badge" is the recognized song here, though it was written primarily by George Harrison, with Clapton offering a little bit of help on the lyrics. "What A Bringdown" is also just meh, and is Baker's final contribution. "Doing That Scrapyard Thing" almost seems like a joke that Bruce and Brown made. The song is very obscure and Bruce sounds very strange singing it.

Overall, I'd recommend the new listener to stay far away from this album, because it's likely to taint your view of one of the best rock bands ever conceived. Even if you're a Cream fan, I recommend you come to this album last, if at all. Start with "Disraeli Gears", go to "Fresh Cream", then "Wheels of Fire".

Not Really An Album.......2006-11-10

Cream clearly didn't have much unreleased on the shelf when they released this. It would be better to call it "Cream Live (Plus 3 Studio Cuts.)"
The live stuff is the usual excess, expecially their destroying of "I'm So Glad." What saves the album and gets the three stars are "Badge" and "Doing That Scrapyard Thing." You don't need to buy this album to get "Badge." It's on about a dozen greatest hits albums. But "Doing That Scrapyard Thing" is a little harder to find. It is a vastly underrated song, but I've always been a Jack Bruce fan.

Cream's Expiration Date.......2006-03-22

Back in the day, one of the easiest ways to start an argument was to pose the question, "Who is the best guitarist of them all, Hendrix or Clapton?" In confidence, even Clapton would probably admit that Hendrix was technically untouchable, and completely revolutionary in his approach. But Clapton, also a virtuoso, was nipping at his heels.

It would be hard to find two performers whose careers turned out more differently. The legacy of Hendrix is based on a meteoric, incredibly brief career, and just three albums. (All subsequent albums were released posthumously). Clapton, in stark contrast, is one of the few survivors of that era still performing, and looking relatively healthy at that. But this is where it gets tricky. A quick scan of Clapton's post-Cream work reveals nothing wonderful, and much that is just all right. A good percentage would sound right at home in a doctor's office waiting room.

To get an idea of what a young, incendiary Clapton was all about, get hold of John Mayall's Bluesbreakers with Eric Clapton and play Steppin' Out. That's two-and-a-half minutes of speed, bite, and raw blues power you won't soon forget, absolutely mind-boggling. The formation of Cream, which happened soon after leaving Mayall, found Clapton teaming up with two other highly talented players, Jack Bruce and Ginger Baker. Baker, on drums, was perhaps a bit more show than dough, but Bruce was a prodigy, and actually the real secret behind Cream's success. Clapton would say later, "I was under Jack's spell for a while." In addition to his amazing voice, Bruce reinvented the role of the bass guitar, in effect, making Cream a three-person band with two guitars. Innumerable bands have tried to copy this formula, without success.

In one sense, it doesn't matter which Cream CD you buy, they're all great, especially Wheels of Fire which features a live version of Crossroads so dazzling it belongs in the Smithsonian. In time I may re-collect them all, but I began with Goodbye, primarily for the three live tracks: I'm So Glad, Politician, and Sittin' On Top Of The World. I'm So Glad is pistol-hot; Bruce is working the bass almost as hard as Clapton is working the guitar. Politician grinds and bends with an almost unbearable seductiveness, Clapton unloads and simply walks the dog on that one, riveting. Closing out is a cover of the standard, Sitting On Top Of The World, and it is as close to a perfect example of ramped-up electrified Delta blues as you might ever hope to hear.

The studio tracks are fine, but beware, they were written in the days when I Am The Walrus was chic, don't expect meaning or even logic. Cream had the wit to quit while they were at the top of their game, this CD proves it. What's ironic is that tracking the post-Cream career of Jack Bruce is much more rewarding than tracking Clapton's. As far as Baker is concerned, all NYT obituaries notwithstanding, he's still not dead. Highly recommended.

Second-best Cream album.......2006-02-27

While it's unfortunate that Cream had to break up, at least they went out with a bang and not with a Led Zeppelin-style fizzle. In fact, I'd have to say it's my second-favorite Cream album, behind only Wheels of Fire.
Similar to Wheels, Goodbye is half-studio, half-live. But unlike Wheels, the live material outweighs the studio stuff (Badge being the exception). First, they take I'm So Glad, which was already Clapton's jam vechile on Fresh Cream, and turn it into Clapton's Guitar Showcase. However, Jack Bruce's work with the four-stringer does rival Clapton's here. They also make Politician into a guitar jam, as they do with Sitting on Top of the World, my favorite out of the live side.
Next, enter the studio half, starting with alltime classic Badge, cowritten by George Harrison. Like so many other Cream fans, I believe that Badge is the best song on Goodbye's studio side. The next two songs (Doing That Scrapyard Thing and What A Bringdown) are two of the strangest songs in the Cream canon. The former seems to be Jack Bruce giving his musical autobiography, while the latter is a very dark piece from Ginger Baker. These are both OK songs, but they don't match up to Badge and the live stuff.
Overall, if you can find Goodbye then pick it up! Good luck finding it, though.

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