New

Bill Kelly 91.1 WFMU
"Some real rock and roll; they get it!"

Product Description
Loud Power Pop. What the hell does that mean?

New

New,Interference,High Roller,Pop,Rock

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Average customer rating: Fun summer CD! You Won't Get It Out of Your Head... AWESOME, AWESOME, AWESOME!!!!! What a Musical! Awesome Soundtrack

Hairspray (Soundtrack to the Motion Picture) Manufacturer: New Line Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Movie Scores | Soundtracks | Styles | Music Movie Soundtracks | Soundtracks | Styles | Music General | Soundtracks | Styles | Music General | Musicals | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music Similar Items: Legally Blonde (2007 Original Broadway Cast) Curtains (2007 Original Broadway Cast) High School Musical 2 Spring Awakening (2006 Original Broadway Cast) Hannah Montana 2: Meet Miley Cyrus ASIN: B000PUAID4 Release Date: 2007-07-10

Tracks:

1. "GOOD MORNING BALTIMORE" - Nikki Blonsky
2. "THE NICEST KIDS IN TOWN" - James Marsden
3. "IT TAKES TWO" - Zac Efron
4. "(THE LEGEND OF) MISS BALTIMORE CRABS" - Michelle Pfeiffer
5. "I CAN HEAR THE BELLS" - Nikki Blonsky
6. "LADIES' CHOICE" - Zac Efron
7. "THE NEW GIRL IN TOWN" - Brittany Snow
8. "WELCOME TO THE 60's" - Nikki Blonsky & John Travolta
9. "RUN AND TELL THAT" - Elijah Kelley
10. "BIG, BLONDE & BEAUTIFUL" - Queen Latifah
11. "BIG, BLONDE & BEAUTIFUL reprise" - John Travolta & Michelle Pfeiffer
12. "(YOU'RE) TIMELESS TO ME" - John Travolta & Christopher Walken
13. "I KNOW WHERE I'VE BEEN" - Queen Latifah
14. "WITHOUT LOVE" - Zac Efron, Nikki Blonsky, Elijah Kelley & Amanda Bynes
15. "(IT'S) HAIRSPRAY" - James Marsden
16. "YOU CAN'T STOP THE BEAT" - Nikki Blonsky, Zac Efron, Amanda Bynes,
17. "COME SO FAR (GOT SO FAR TO GO)" - Queen Latifah, Nikki Blonsky, Zac
18. "COOTIES" - Aimee Allen
19. "MAMA, I'M A BIG GIRL NOW" - Nikki Blonsky, Marissa Jaret Winokur & Rikki Lake

Amazon.com

What fun! This soundtrack of the film adaptation of the Broadway musical overflows with glossy, ol' fashioned '60s-style pep. It won't win any awards for innovation, but it may well be one of the most feel-good releases of the year. While not quite as super-energetic as the original Broadway cast, the new crew ain't too shabby: Nikki Blonsky delivers as Tracy Turnblad and Zac Efron (High School Musical) makes for a devoted boyfriend, and the supporting cast gleefully embraces the show's silly-but-generous spirit. John Travolta (who gets to utter the particularly ironic line "it's been years since someone asked me to dance") goes drag as Tracy's mom, Edna, while Michelle Pfeiffer's slight stiffness is appropriate for her uptight character, especially on the cha-cha "(The Legend of) Miss Baltimore Crabs." After Mama Morton in Chicago, Queen Latifah puts in another brassy turn as Motormouth Maybelle ("Big, Blonde and Beautiful," which is then reprised by Travolta and Pfeiffer). The show's authors, Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman, have written three new numbers for the movie: the rollicking (and first single) "Ladies' Choice," "New Girl in Town" and "Come So Far." In addition, the CD also includes two tracks that aren't in the film but were in the show: "Cooties," sung by Aimee Allen, and "Mama, I'm a Big Girl Now," sung by all three Tracy Turnblads: Blonsky, Ricki Lake (from the source movie) and Marissa Jaret Winokur (from the original Broadway cast). --Elisabeth Vincentelli

Album Description

The Hairspray soundtrack will feature 17 songs from the film, including three original numbers that were created specifically for the film version of the hit Broadway musical - "Ladies' Choice," "New Girl In Town," and "Come So Far." Also featured on the soundtrack are the songs "Good Morning Baltimore," "Welcome to the `60s," "Nicest Kids In Town," and "You Can't Stop The Beat." The songs are performed by cast members John Travolta, Queen Latifah, Michelle Pfeiffer, Zac Efron, Amanda Bynes, Brittany Snow and Elijah Kelley among others.

The Hairspray soundtrack is produced by Marc Shaiman and features music by Shaiman and lyrics by Scott Wittman and Shaiman. It features tracks mixed by Ed Cherney (Rolling Stones, Bette Midler) and Peter Mokran (Pussycat Dolls, Christina Aguilera).

Sixteen years after the release of the original film, New Line Cinema is bringing a feature film adaptation of the Tony Award-winning Broadway production of Hairspray to life. Featuring new and original material based on John Waters' 1988 cult classic about star-struck teenagers on a local Baltimore dance show, the comedy features a remarkable collection of talent including John Travolta, Queen Latifah, Michelle Pfeiffer, Christopher Walken, Amanda Bynes, Allison Janney, Brittany Snow, Zac Efron, Elijah Kelley, producers Craig Zadan and Neil Meron (Chicago), and director Adam Shankman (Bringing Down The House). The new screenplay for Hairspray was written by Leslie Dixon (Freaky Friday, Outrageous Fortune).

Customer Reviews:

Fun summer CD!.......2007-07-29

I loved the movie and ordered the CD after leaving the theater. I have listened to it non-stop in the car and even my children love it. The CD is just so upbeat and makes you smile and will have you singing along. I can't wait to go back and see the movie a second time...

You Won't Get It Out of Your Head..........2007-07-29

The move was fantastic, and the soundtrack mirrors this... The vast majority of the songs are upbeat and unbelievably catchy. I've seen many musicals in my day, and I must say that this is the first one that actually made me feel better about myself after taking a look and listen. From the immediate attention grabbing "Good Morning Baltimore" to the undeniably infectious "You Can't Stop the Beat," the soundtrack keeps the energy high and the toes a tappin'. See the movie, and then... well, you'll buy the soundtrack =)

AWESOME, AWESOME, AWESOME!!!!!.......2007-07-29

This is an EXTREMELY fun soundtrack! We just saw the movie tonight, and I was toe-tapping the whole time! I just about got out of my seat and danced in the aisles! I have never been so rocked by a soundtrack before! It was FUN. That is the best word to describe EVERYTHING in this movie. The music, the movie, the acting, everything! I think I'll wear this cd out playing it. :o)

What a Musical!.......2007-07-25

Great soundtrack and great movie! I would give it 10 stars if I could.

Awesome Soundtrack.......2007-07-24

I had to write and share my thoughts on this soundtrack. I am a bit of a musical snob. I have seen the original movie, saw Hairspray on Broadway three times (with Harvey Fierstein-awesome) and was really excited for the movie's opening night. It was beyond awesome and I had already ordered the soundtrack. I am extremely impressed with this movie. It can't be compared to the stage musical because they are both perfect in their own ways. I was not looking forward to John Travolta's take on Edna Turnblad, because I liked Harvey's so much, but he blew me away and should absolutely be nominated for an Academy Award for this role, as should Queen Latifah. She is an even better singer than I had guessed. She was exceptional in this role-Broadway quality voice (and that is a big compliment coming from me). Zac Efron was excellent (although I would have loved to have seen more of him-my daughters wanted to see more of him too!!!! We're High School Musical fans). Everyone else was great, too, but those were my favorites. I also love the version of "Mama, I'm a Big Girl Now" with all three Tracys (GREAT IDEA)!!! Great soundtrack and great movie.

Average customer rating: Great differentiation Another Great One !!! Big Dog Daddy Slightly Disappointed Another Toby Keith Winner!

Big Dog Daddy Toby Keith Manufacturer: Show Dog Nashville ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Contemporary Country | Country | Styles | Music New Traditionalist | Contemporary Country | Country | Styles | Music General | Country | Styles | Music Contemporary | Bluegrass | Country | Styles | Music General | Pop | Styles | Music Similar Items: 5th Gear Between Raising Hell and Amazing Grace Let It Go Lost Highway One of the Boys ASIN: B000NIBV0C Release Date: 2007-06-12

Tracks:

1. High Maintenance Woman
2. Love Me If You Can
3. White Rose
4. Get My Drink On
5. Wouldn't Wanna Be Ya
6. Big Dog Daddy
7. Burnin' Moonlight
8. Walk it Off
9. I Know She Hung the Moon
10. Pump Jack
11. Hit It

Amazon.com

On his first totally controlled album for his own label, Toby Keith adds another title to his résumé: producer. Throughout, the former Oklahoma wildcatter, who's taken heat for his blustery patriotism and outspoken remarks, seems to be seeking new respect, shifting the focus off of politics and grandstanding and back to his talents as a musician. While his last album, White Trash with Money, found him flirting with R&B and adding horns for a bit more bump, his latest effort finds him nearly in a singer-songwriter mood, taking more time to craft the sound of the tracks and laying down his own harmonies. He's still relying on gimmicky wordplay and cartoon puffery for his full-tilt radio numbers ("High Maintenance Woman," "Big Dog Daddy"), but he also showcases the sensitive, ballad-heavy side of his personality that hasn't been as apparent since the '90s ("Does That Blue Moon Ever Shine on You," "We Were in Love"). He achieves this with some fine cowriting--the winsome "I Know She Hung the Moon" and "Walk It Off," and the lusty "Burnin' Moonlight." He also finds two excellent covers, Fred Eaglesmith's "White Rose" (which combines nostalgia for full-service gas stations with that of a teen's coming of age) and the thoughtful Craig Wiseman/Chris Wallin ballad "Love Me If You Can." The latter, a quiet social commentary, revisits Keith's familiar theme of holding one's ground, but with a far more compassionate approach than he's tried before. Consider it a meditation from a brash king of the hill who hasn't forgotten how to be humble. --Alanna Nash

Customer Reviews:

Great differentiation.......2007-07-30

Love this CD. There are numbers that rock (like the title song Big Dog Daddy), but also a few slower ballads, bit of real country and in between. And all with this great voice of Toby Keith. Great to listen to in the car. Worth all the costs of shipping and taxes to get it here in the Netherlands.

Another Great One !!!.......2007-07-24

I am a huge TK fan and I think this was one of his best CD's. I have loved every one of his CD's that he has made and he knows exactly what his fans want !! He is an awesome performer and puts on great concerts and always stays true to himself !!

Big Dog Daddy.......2007-07-23

This is one of the best Toby Keith has done! I can't stop listening to it! Each song is better then the next...whata guy..what music!

Slightly Disappointed.......2007-07-21

I love Toby he's my favorite country star, yet I found this CD to be missing something. White Trash With Money was awesome I loved every song on it but this one there are just a few that just don't seem to fit. Over all though if you are a Toby fan it's worth adding it to your collection there is far more good songs than so-so ones on here.

Another Toby Keith Winner!.......2007-07-21

A great CD with lots of songs that catch you on the first listen! As with most of Toby's CDs, almost every song is a winner.

Average customer rating: It's simple... Very Good, but there is one compilation that is better Literate, poetic...great pop/rock 4.5 out of 5 Best rhythm section in rock. Excellent compilation that could have been perfect with some additional songs...4 1/2 stars

The Police (2CD Anthology) The Police Manufacturer: A&M ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music New Wave | New Wave & Post-Punk | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Britain | British Isles | Europe | International | Styles | Music General | Pop | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Album-Oriented Rock (AOR) | Classic Rock | Styles | Music Similar Items: The Best of Elvis Costello: The First 10 Years Memory Almost Full Instant Karma: The Amnesty International Campaign to Save Darfur Traveling Wilburys (2 CD / 1 DVD) It Won't Be Soon Before Long ASIN: B000PHX4VA Release Date: 2007-06-05

Tracks:

1. Fallout
2. Can't Stand Losing You
3. Next To You
4. Roxanne
5. Truth Hits Everybody
6. Hole In My Life
7. So Lonely
8. Message In a Bottle
9. Reggatta De Blanc
10. Bring On the Night
11. Walking On the Moon
12. Don't Stand So Close To Me
13. Driven To Tears
14. Canary In a Coalmine

Tracks:

1. De Do Do Do, De Da Da Da
2. Voices Inside My Head
3. Invisible Sun
4. Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic
5. Spirits In the Material World
6. Demolition Man
7. Every Breath You Take
8. Synchronicity I
9. Wrapped Around Your Finger
10. Walking In Your Footsteps
11. Synchronicity II
12. King Of Pain
13. Murder By Numbers
14. Tea In the Sahara

Album Description

The Police celebrate the 30th anniversary of their recording debut with their first double-disc CD "best of" collection entitled, The Police. The 28 songs bring together the biggest hits from the band's five original studio albums and includes their very first single, 1977's "Fall Out."

From that rarity to one of the most-remembered and most performed rock ballads of the `80s, 1983's "Every Breath You Take," The Police spans the group's six-year journey from sweaty clubs to sold-out stadiums - establishing them as one of the definitive and most popular rock groups in the world.

Customer Reviews:

It's simple..........2007-07-31

...the Police were a singles driven band and this distillation of their musical career is almost flawless (we all have favorites that were not included; mine is "Beds Too Big Without You"). This is pretty near perfect in it's conception because it does cut-out the filler and 'silly songs' that are present on most of their albums. Excellento!

Very Good, but there is one compilation that is better.......2007-07-28

It is hard to believe that a band can become a Hall of Fame band with just five studio albums to their name, but the Police are such a band. This is an honor that the Police are most worthy of. The Police were sort of an off-shoot of the Punk Rock movement of the late 1970s. The band would eventually encompass other influences - namely Classic Rock, Reggae, Jazz, Dance, and even Folk. For the most part, it is fair to say there was a Punk Rock and Reggae influence on the band for their first two albums" - "Outlandos D'Amour" and "Regatta de Blanc". Both of these albums were terrific efforts - mostly because The Police used applied their unique style to a formula that worked. The Police would soon transform their sound to a more Classic Rock sound. With each successive album ("Zenyatta Mondatta", "Ghost in the Machine", and "Synchronicity"), the Police would continue to grow as a band and incorporate a variety of genres into their sound. In 1986, the Police officially disbanded and it wouldn't be until 2007 when they would officially reunite for a reunion tour. To build some momentum for the tour, the Police would release a two CD greatest hits collection entitled "The Police". This compilation does provide a good portfolio of the band's classic tracks.

"The Police" takes tracks from each of the band's five albums. Six tracks from "Outlandos D'Amour" ("Can't Stand Losing You", "Next to You", "Roxanne", "Truth Hits Everybody", "Hole in My Life", "So Lonely"); Four tracks from "Regatta De Blanc" ("Message in a Bottle", "Regatta De Blanc", "Bring on the Night", "Walking on the Moon"); Five tracks from "Zenyatta Mondatta" ("Don't Stand So Close to Me", "Driven to Tears", "Canary in a Coalmine", "De Do Do Do, De Da Da Da", "Voices Inside My Head"); Four tracks from "Ghost in the Machine" ("Invisible Sun", "Every Little Thing She Does is Magic", "Demolition Man"); Eight tracks from "Synchronicity" ("Synchronicity I", "Wrapped Around Your Finger", "Walking In Your Footsteps", "Synchronicity II", "King of Pain", "Murder By Numbers", "Tea in the Sahara"). This collection also includes the band's debut single - not released on the five studio albums - "Fallout". There is an import version of this collection that includes two addition tracks - "The Bed's Too Big Without You" (from "Regatta De Blanc") and "Rehumanize Yourself" (from "Ghost in the Machine"). My big argument is that this collection tends to go too heavy on "Synchronicity" - with eight of the eleven tracks from that album on this collection. One can also make the argument not enough was taken from "Regatta De Blanc" or "Ghost in the Machine". For the most part, this compilation does a good job at taking the essential tracks from the Police's music portfolio.

One strength of this collection is that the tracks are chronologically arranged by the studio album they released. This allows you to see how a band has progressed over time. In the case of the Police, this is essential because I think it is important to hear how their sound evolved.

When considering a greatest hits compilation, it is important to know that bands often release several flavors of compilations.

"Every Breath You Take - The Singles": This was a compilation released in 1986. It only includes twelve tracks. It contains an updated version of "Don't Stand So Close to Me" called "Don't Stand So Close to Me '86"). All of the tracks on this collection are found on "The Police" 2 CD compilation. For the most part, this collection preserves the chronological ordering of the band.

"Every Breath You Take - The Classics": An Updated Version of "Every Breath You Take - The Singles". It includes both versions of "Don't Stand So Close to Me" and an additional version of "Message in a Bottle" (that version is not found on "The Police" 2 CD compilation). For the most part, this collection preserves the chronological ordering of the band.

"The Very Best of Sting and The Police": This provides a mix of Sting's solo work with some of the Police's best hits. There are two versions of this collection - one from 1997 and one from 2002 with the latter one being more complete. These compilations do not preserve the chronological ordering of the band.

"Message in a Box: The Complete Recordings": This is exactly as advertised. It includes every song from each of the five studio albums as well as some B side songs, live tracks, and songs not originally found on CD. These songs are arranged in chronological order on four CDs. It also includes the "Don't Stand So Close to Me '86" version.

It is worth noting that "The Police" 2 CD compilation is very good. If you are looking for a greatest hits collection by the Police, this stands up much stronger than the two "Every Breath You Take" compilations. It also provides more depth from the Police perspective than the two versions of "The Very Best of Sting and The Police". However, if one is considering a greatest hits collection, I would easily opt for the "Message in a Box" collection over this 2 CD compilation. You are going to get so much more for your money. You also get the benefits of a boxed set (including a very good booklet). Every song on this 2 CD compilation is going to be found on the "Message in a Box" collection. My recommendation would be to go for the "Message in a Box" collection over this 2 CD compilation.

Literate, poetic...great pop/rock 4.5 out of 5.......2007-07-13

I'm not giving this cd 5 out of 5 because of some issues about the sound...the first cd seems to lack presence in the sound and there is some distortion in the first track of disc 2 [I listen to cds on good quality headphones and I feel that these sound issues could be eliminated if people did the same prior to releasing cds].

Anyway, The Police are perhaps THE major British band of the 1980s. Looking at the credits in the double cd, it seems that lead singer "Sting" pretty much did everything himself...from writing the songs to arranging the music.

Many of the songs on this compilation show Sting to be the former English teacher that he was...from his superior way with words, to his literary allusions.

The highlights of the first cd for me are:

Can't stand losing you-a song about breaking up. The 'voice' of the song sounds like a pouty teenager and is amusing for its melodrama. Suicide is mentioned in this song. This topic seems fertile for rock. E.g. Metallica have the beautiful and absolute classic song "Fade to black", with its adult sensibility; and Megadeth have "A tout le monde", which, like this Police song, seems to have a teenage 'voice' singing. Both latter songs have melodrama, but The Police give their song a nice dose of humour.

Roxanne-perhaps the song which broke the band, especially in the UK. It's about the boyfriend of a prostitute, I think. Along with the song above, it is one of the strongest songs on the first cd. It has a nice mixture of a vulnerable 'voice' doing the singing, and the pounding, repetitive lyrics of the chorus.

Two other songs from the first cd which take my fancy are "Message in a bottle" and "Walking on the moon". Both songs are more towards the "ballad" end of the pop/rock spectrum. The latter song, particulary, illustrates Sting's great lyrical imagery...i.e. he likens walking, when one is in love, to walking on the moon...brilliant use of lyrics and imagery.

The second cd contains most of the songs that I particularly like from this band. "De do do do, de da da da" is a terrific song about how the powerful use language for their own benefit. Many years ago I wasn't very keen on this song, as it SOUNDED like non-sense [and going on the title too]. Listening to this song years later, you appreciate the depth of meaning it has behind it. Nice turn of phrase "Poets, priests and politicians, have words to thank for their positions". Sting doesn't seem to include pop/rock stars!

"Invisible sun" has a terrificly eerie opening [not unlike Synchronicity II...in fact, the intros could just as easily be used to introduce darker themes and music, but settles for terrific pop/rock]. I'm not so keen on the chorus of Invisible Sun, but I really like the verses and the ambiance of the introduction.

"Spirits in the material world" is another highlight from the second disc.
It exemplifies an attractive trait of this band...mixing up the hooks in one song. The song is catchy from the start, with nice melodies [vocal], but it really picks up when a NEW melody [keyboard] is introduced in the latter part of the song. This song may be the one where Sting's glib political views are at the fore ["Our so called leaders speak. With words they try to gaol you. They subjugate the meek, but it's the rhetoric of failure"]. That's a VERY nice turn of phrase, but, like I say, rather glib and lacking in hope for the political process.

Perhaps the band's biggest hit is "Every breath you take". This song isn't one that has ever really grabbed me. To me it's like the curate's egg...good in parts. An Australian equivalent would be Mondo Rock's "Come said the boy"-both bands had monumentally great pop/rock songs, but their most successful songs were not the ones I rated as great. Anyway, The Police's ballad is perhaps growing more on me now...it's 'good' bits are making the song gel better now, for me, perhaps.

"Wrapped around your finger" is another very good Police song, and which has those literary allusions I spoke of earlier "Caught between the Scylla and Charibdes". Perhaps my favourite Police song of all is "King of pain", which also has some literary allusions that I know of "There's a king with his eyes torn out" and some that elude me "There's a skeleton choking on a crust of bread". Both these songs illustrate the great thing about Police songs...how they change gears, so to speak, by changing tempo or pitch or melody. The bit in King Of Pain where this happens is where Sting raises his voice higher and starts the line about the King. Reading the lyrics, I saw that it was more gruesome than I remember, but nonetheless beautiful to listen to.

"Synchronicity" is one of the band's more adventurous sounding rock songs but they carry it off with aplomb.

I do remember hearing somewhere about the song "Murder by numbers" causing controversy in the US and the band's response to this. Having read the lyrics that come with this cd, I see that the band is right to defend the song, but perhaps they only have themselves to blame by making the point of their song towards the end, making it difficult to come by, perhaps. It is also another politically glib song by Sting, though perhaps containing a germ of truth.

Lastly, I did find "Walking in your footsteps" to be a lyrically interesting song. Perhaps it is Sting likening humans to dinosaurs...with us heading for extinction too, like the dinosaurs, if we keep toying with nuclear power.

In conclusion, this is a terrific buy for people into lyrically sophisticated music with catchy pop/rock that is also sophisticated. I do find the drumming sound by this band to be satisfying and their melodies gorgeous when they're at their best. It's just a pity though that on occasion it sounds like the master tapes are in fact LP records...with dust or scratches on them.

P.S. if you like poetic music, I recommend and have reviewed:

Patti Smith's album Horses.

If you like political music, I recommend and have reviewed numerous albums by Midnight Oil here [highly recommended are their albums "10-1" and "Diesel and dust".

I've reviewed Metallica and Megadeth albums here too.

Best rhythm section in rock........2007-07-08

I wouldn't give you more than 50 cents for Sting, but listening to Copeland and Summers on this compilation confirms that they are/were the best rhythm section in rock - or, at the very least, one of the best. Focusing on their playing throughout these 28 tracks is a real delight. I don't know of many other bass/drum duos who can make so much happen so economically.

Buy and get a master class in how to make a rock rhythm section work to perfection.

Excellent compilation that could have been perfect with some additional songs...4 1/2 stars.......2007-07-06

A perfect excuse to exploit their catalog again, A&M/Universal (or whatever the congolmerate is called now)has put together a terrific compilation of the band's album tracks and hits. It appears that the masters used for the album reissues from a couple of years ago are the source here as they sound excellent and exactly the same as the previous set. This is a huge improvement over the various single disc sets released since 1986.

"Fall Out" was their first single and has only appeared on their four disc anthology on CD before this. We get 6 songs from the band's first album "Outlandos d' Amour" 4 tracks from their second album "Regatta De Blanc" their second album, 5 tracks from "Zenyatta Mondatta" their third album, 4 tracks from their fourth album "Ghost in the Machine" and a whopping 8 tracks (most of the album!)from "Synchroncity". We don't get anything from their soundtrack album "Brimstone and Treacle" (which includes the terrific song "I Burn For You") nor anything from their live album. Also missing are b-sides to most of their singles some of which are outstanding.

With 14 songs on each disc there was some room for additional tracks some of which might not have been big hits but deserved a larger audience. "I Burn For You","Bombs Away", "Darkness", "Nothing Achieving" and "Visions of the Night", "Low Life", "The Bed's Too Big Without You" (which they are playing on the tour) are among the songs that probably should have been included.

As mentioned the sound is very good on these discs although there isn't a mastering credit. It does sound very similar to the individual re-releases from a couple years back and has slightly better detail than the boxed set released 14 years ago. The later recordings benefit the most from the remaster although all the songs sound fine. It would have been nice to have comments for each song and more in the way of liner notes on the recordings but that doesn't detract from this anthology. I suspect that there are rarities out there (such as demos, etc.) that could have been added to entice fans who have their other releases but none are here.

This is a very good set for fans looking for the bulk of the best album tracks and hits. The packaging includes a one sheet with some credits on it that folds out into a replica of an early concert poster for the band. The slip case is kind of cool as well. When you slide the holder out of the slipcase the band's songs are listed on the yellow cover (and you can see them when you hold it up to the light).

Average customer rating: Terrific! Kick back and enjoy! Unique Concept Gorgeously Executed Smooth and Sexy WOW!!! Great CD!!!!

After Hours Raul Malo Manufacturer: New Door Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music General | Contemporary Country | Country | Styles | Music General | Country | Styles | Music Contemporary | Bluegrass | Country | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music General | Adult Contemporary | Pop | Styles | Music Similar Items: The Nashville Acoustic Sessions Today Marshmallow World & Other Holiday Favorites (with Bonus Track) - Amazon.com Exclusive The Definitive Collection Translated From Love ASIN: B000PKG7HU Release Date: 2007-07-17

Tracks:

1. Welcome To My World (John Hathcock-Ray Winkler)
2. (Now And Then There's) A Fool Such As I (William Trader)
3. For The Good Times (Kris Kristofferson)
4. Pocket Of A Clown (Dwight Yoakam)
5. Crying Time (Buck Owens)
6. Cold, Cold Heart (Hank Williams)
7. You Can Depend On Me (Charles Carpenter-Louis Dunlap-Earl Hines)
8. Husbands And Wives (Roger Miller)
9. It Only Hurts Me When I Cry (Dwight Yoakam-Roger Miller)
10. Take These Chains From My Heart (Hy Heath-Fred Rose)

Amazon.com

Raul Malo's second covers album in two years skews slightly closer to the classic country that influenced his early career with the Mavericks. It is also likely to further alienate followers of his rootsy former band as he shifts into crooning, jazzy supper-club mode on these countrypolitan versions of classic and a few more recent C&W tracks. All twang is removed here, replaced with a horn section, a featured clarinet, and slick pop arrangements of standards associated with Elvis ("(Now and Then There's) A Fool Such as I"), Hank Williams ("Take These Chains from My Heart," "Cold, Cold Heart"), and Ray Price (Kris Kristofferson's often-interpreted "For the Good Times"). Malo sure has the pipes for these reworkings, but the disc is most convincing when the syrupy support takes a back seat to the relatively swinging horns on Dwight Yoakam's "It Only Hurts Me When I Cry" and "Pocket of a Clown." Regardless of your age, this is very definitely your parents' country, as Malo transforms himself into a younger, slightly hipper Dean Martin. You can practically taste the olive in his martini and touch his crisp tuxedo as he eases into this material with satiny-smooth vocals and classy delivery. But the line between seductive and snoozy is a thin one, and established fans might wonder where the old fire has gone as they navigate through this glossy set of easy-listening, after-hours mood music. --Hal Horowitz

Album Description

"There's a sophistication in country music, particularly in the songs that were written in the 1950s and'60s, that sometimes gets overlooked," says Malo. "I wanted to make an album that showed these songs can be treated as pop standards, because that's what they are, really. It's just that the artists who had success with them were country artists, although Tony Bennett had a hit with a Hank Williams song, so it isn't that unusual for the genres to cross each other."

In approaching this material, Malo and his band--Robert Chevrier (piano), Jay Weaver (bass), Tom Lewis (drums) and Jim Hoke (saxophone, clarinet and pedal steel)--drew their inspiration from the classic Nashville productions of the era. "This record definitely pays homage to the kind of country music Owen Bradley created," Malo acknowledges. "But the Ray Charles album Modern Sounds in Country & Western Music was the specific inspiration for this one. Ray proved that country music can be sophisticated and jazzy as well, and we wanted to do our take on it."

Customer Reviews:

Terrific!.......2007-07-31

Oh my gosh I just received this CD and I LOVE it. Raul's voice is so suited to this type of music. His voice is so rich and deep and the selections on this CD are just wonderful. It's very mellow and very easy to listen to. Buy it if you like this type of music. You won't find a better voice to sing it!

Kick back and enjoy!.......2007-07-30

What a voice - smooth as satin and rich as chocolate... Malo takes on some country classics here on an effort that could have been recorded by Patsy Cline not so many years ago. Anyone wanting to kick off your shoes, sip a glass of wine, and cuddle up with the one you love is guaranteed to be more than satisfied with this one! And as I said before, what a voice!

Unique Concept Gorgeously Executed.......2007-07-30

This CD continues to impress me, the more I listen to it. It is one thing to produce a concept album, but it is not so easy to have it come out all of a piece. Each song is totally unique but yet, they all seem to flow together. And then you have one of the most beautiful voices ever. You won't be disappointed. My personal favorite right now is "You Can Depend On Me".

Smooth and Sexy.......2007-07-30

Raul Malo has scored again with "After Hours". You don't have to be a country music fan to love this album. With his magnificent voice, Raul and his fantastic band comprised of Robert Chevier on piano, Jay Weaver on base guitar, and Tom Lewis on drums, have once again produced a record worth listening to. Following in the footsteps of the greats, Sinatra, Martin, Orbison, and Elvis, Raul and his band have created music that's smooth, sexy, and will definitely put your husband, wife, lover, partner in the mood. I've ordered multiple copies for all my friends. Don't miss this opportunity to sway with the master, Raul Malo.

WOW!!! Great CD!!!!.......2007-07-30

Raul's voice is amazing! The BEST in the music industry today!! If you haven't heard him you must check out this CD...Fantastic interpretations of these classic country standards. I especially love For the Good Times, Pocket of a Clown and Cold, Cold Heart but really my favorites change daily...they are all phenomenal!

Average customer rating: Simply Outstanding - A Must Have A Must Have for any Jazz Collection Renovating An Old Master Mining the 78 Grooves with Custom Styli THE set to get

Off The Record: The Complete 1923 Jazz Band Recordings King Oliver Manufacturer: Off The Record (distributed by Archeophone Records) ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Jazz | Styles | Music New Orleans Jazz | Jazz | Styles | Music Traditional Jazz General | Traditional Jazz & Ragtime | Jazz | Styles | Music Similar Items: Jelly Roll Morton: 1926-1930 Lost Sounds: Blacks and the Birth of the Recording Industry 1891-1922 Actionable Offenses: Indecent Phonograph Recordings from the 1890s Bix Beiderbecke, Vol. 1: Singin' the Blues The Duke Box ASIN: B000K2VK8Y Release Date: 2006-11-01

Tracks:

1. Just Gone
2. Canal Street Blues
3. Mandy Lee Blues
4. I'm Going Away to Wear You Off My Mind
5. Chimes Blues
6. Weather Bird Rag
7. Dipper Mouth Blues
8. Froggie Moore
9. Snake Rag
10. Snake Rag
11. Sweet Lovin' Man
12. High Society Rag
13. Sobbin' Blues
14. Where Did You Stay Last Night
15. Dipper Mouth Blues
16. Jazzin' Babies Blues
17. Alligator Hop
18. Zulu's Ball
19. Workingman Blues
20. Krooked Blues
21. Chattanooga Stomp
22. London (Cafe) Blues
23. Camp Meeting Blues
24. New Orleans Stomp
25. Buddy's Habit
26. Tears
27. I Ain't Gonna Tell Nobody
28. Room Rent Blues
29. Riverside Blues
30. Sweet Baby Doll
31. Working Man Blues
32. Mabel's Dream
33. Mabel's Dream (take 1)
34. Mabel's Dream (take 2)
35. The Southern Stomps (take 1)
36. The Southern Stomps (take 2)
37. Riverside Blues

Product Description

Off the Record offers an amazingly fresh and simple alternative--one that proves to be a definitive step in presenting these truly classic sides. By special arrangement with Archeophone Records, Off the Record is proud to present all 37 issued titles by the Oliver band, newly transferred from the best available original sources, issued on two compact discs. Engineer and master sound recording restoration specialist Doug Benson--known for his definitive work on "The Complete Hit of the Week" on Archeophone Records--and David Sager--jazz historian and trombonist--have searched far and wide to gain access to the cleanest copies of all the Oliver discs, including the unique copy of "Zulus Ball" and "Working Man Blues." Using a meticulous musical ear, a wide variety of styli and the subtlest application of digital technology, Benson, perhaps for the first time, has revealed the natural ambience of these discs. Unprecedented Detail and Clarity: The Oliver ensemble has never been heard to better advantage. Passages long accepted as muddy and indistinct pour forth with unprecedented clarity. Even the introduction of the ultra-rare "Zulus Ball," often lamented for its poor condition, shines through crystal clear! Straight off the discs with as little processing as possible: There is no better way to bring these old discs to life than with the right stylus, a sensitive ear, and careful application of non-invasive processing. Whereas many reissues are marred by over-processing, resulting in muffled sound and/or digital artifacts, Off the Record has judiciously applied just enough non-invasive technique in order to remove ticks, pops, harsh resonances and other unwelcome noise--leaving the music to speak for itself. Expertly Speed Corrected: Just because we call them "78s" doesn't mean that they really are. Sound recordings from the early days of sound recording rarely spin at exactly 78 rpm. Back in those days there was no standardization regarding speed; often discs ran a

Customer Reviews:

Simply Outstanding - A Must Have.......2007-07-29

The material, you are probably aware of. The sound is the difference here - a pleasure to listen to. Until you hear this, you're not going to understand how important this remastering is; great care was taken for A must have for any Armstong/Oliver or jazz musicologist.

A Must Have for any Jazz Collection.......2007-07-23

I have a few original 78's of King Oliver's Creole Jazz band, and many reissues on 78, vinyl, and CD.

This set tops a them ALL sonically. The first two cuts amazed me. Some cuts suffer a bit, but I would assume that is due to the condition of available source material. After hearing so many so so and dreadful transfers in thew past, these are an ear opener. In places, Oliver & Armstrong's cornets fairly jump right out out of the speakers.

The accompanying booklet is extensive, with some extremely rare photos.

A must-have if you are serious about knowing jazz history.

Renovating An Old Master.......2007-07-15

I'm revelling in this new 2-CD set of King Oliver's complete 1923 recordings. In the excellent accompanying 32-page booklet, Dick Spottswood is quoted as saying that the Oliver Creole Jazz Band should be reissued every ten years as technology improves. I first heard some on the old Riverside LP release and, despite all the imperfections, knew that this was the real McCoy. Having progressed via the World Record Club LP and the Milestone double LP to the Robert Parker CDs, I think that this magnificent new set will suffice (that is, if I don't wear it out).

If you're coming new to Oliver, don't be misled into thinking that these recordings are raucous examples of a primitive music form. As the perceptive liner notes state (and these octogenerian recordings underline) "Oliver's band was first and foremost a dance band, as were most jazz bands of the day".

If you're already committed, you'll find the effect of hearing these recordings anew is analogous to that of viewing an Old Master after the accumulated dirt of the centuries (which we took for granted as part of the picture) has been removed and the original colours stand revealed in all their glory.

Mining the 78 Grooves with Custom Styli .......2007-05-30

We can HOPE this will sound better 10+ years down the road (on a future re-issue), but this 2006 set is definitely a big improvement over all previous versions. I had purchased the late John R. T. Davies' 1996 Retrieval set (previously considered "state-of-the-art") only a few months ago and had listened to it several times. This new one wins hands-down for overall clarity and resonance. This is fun, rollicking music--classic New Orleans style--which has never really been surpassed within the genre. Don't expect modern sounding discs, but do treat yourself to this 1923 treasure. Excellent, informative liner notes are included.

THE set to get.......2007-01-19

As anyone with more than a passing interest in jazz knows, these are among the most important records in the history of the genre. King Oliver was one of the legendary New Orleans jazz trumpeters of the 1910s who made the move to Chicago with his protégé, Louis Armstrong, in the early '20s. The recordings on this disc indicate clearly why Joe Oliver was "King." His band has an irresistible ensemble sound and a certain indescribable "drive" that no band since has captured in quite the same way. I've yet to hear any of the so-called trad jazz revival bands play with collective improvisation this tight. Just listen to "Froggie Moore" on this CD and you'll hear what I mean! This was exciting stuff when it was recorded in 1923, and it's still plenty exciting now! Undoubtedly, many people will be turned off by the relatively thin sound of these 85-year-old acoustic recordings, and that's a shame. These recordings are classics that every true jazz fan should own. The music here has been reissued many times in the past several decades, but *this* is the set to get. While the audio is a far cry from CD-quality, this 2-CD set presents the best-sounding transfers I have ever heard! I already had these tracks on releases from Olympic, Milestone, Joker, and Classics, and the hype is true: the sound on this new Archeophone/Off The Record set simply blows all previous reissues away. There's just a freshness and crispness on these transfers that has never been there before. These records have *presence* now. Listening to these on a decent set of headphones or on quality loudspeakers, the piano finally sounds like a piano again--not just some muddy percussive tinkling. Oliver's and Armstrong's cornets come shining through with full force. Even thought these are all acoustic recordings, there's a certain electricity in the air when listening to them. I had never fully appreciated King Oliver's band before, but now that I can better hear what's going on, I finally "get it." All of my collector friends who have purchased this set and compared it with previous reissues (those I mentioned plus the famous Retrieval set) agree--the sound on this issue is far superior. The beautifully-illustrated booklet (with scans of *all* the included records) contains lengthy detailed notes and discographical information and is worth the price alone. I simply can't say enough good things about this set. Get it!

Average customer rating: Sounds A Bit Like M E H D I Ancient Muse Review Not my style...! Loreena is back in Style An Ancient Muse

An Ancient Muse Loreena McKennitt Manufacturer: Verve ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music General | International | Styles | Music Canada | North America | International | Styles | Music General | Celtic | International | Styles | Music New Age | Celtic | International | Styles | Music Fusion | Celtic | International | Styles | Music General | Jazz | Styles | Music Jazz Fusion | Jazz | Styles | Music Celtic New Age | New Age | Styles | Music General | New Age | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music General | Adult Contemporary | Pop | Styles | Music Adult Alternative | Pop | Styles | Music Verve | Verve Music Group | Specialty Stores | Music Pop | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Rock | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Alternative Rock | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Jazz | 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: Wintersong Songs from the Labyrinth (Music by John Dowland) Celtic Woman: A Christmas Celebration A Posteriori Not Too Late ASIN: B000J3EEBY Release Date: 2006-11-21

Tracks:

1. Incantation
2. The Gates Of Istanbul
3. Caravanserai
4. The English Ladye And The Knight
5. Kecharitomene
6. Penelope's Song
7. Sacred Shabbat
8. Beneath A Phrygian Sky
9. Never-Ending Road (Amhrán Duit)

Amazon.com

It's been nearly a decade since Loreena McKennitt's last studio album, The Book of Secrets, but An Ancient Muse picks up the caravan exactly where she left off on her mystical journey through the cultures of the Middle East and northern Sahara. The Canadian singer opens this album the same way as she did her last two recordings: with an incantation, calling out in a wordless voice across an echoing space, cleansing the air and the mind. What follows is a lot like those albums as well, a pan-global excursion centered on Middle Eastern themes and instruments cast into a dramatic exotica. Oud, dumbek, kanoun, hurdy-gurdy, duduk, nyckleharpe (a Swedish-keyed fiddle), and other ancient sounds from the region and beyond ornament her music, though "ornament" might no longer be accurate. With the exception of Hugh Marsh's gypsy violin solos and a handful of other players, it's the Western instruments that serve as ornaments on An Ancient Muse. McKennitt long ago evolved the Celtic sound that launched her career. She's virtually abandoned the harp, which hasn't appeared on her CDs since 1991's The Visit. The lone uillean pipe on "Beneath a Phrygian Sky" sounds like an echo calling from the McKennitt's past. Nevertheless, the Celtic ballad form remains central to her music, and she still draws inspiration from ye olde writers of the British Isles. Lyrics from Sir Walter Scott adorn "The English Ladye and the Knight," recalling "The Lady of Shalott." But despite McKennitt's soaring alto, the tale drags under the dirge-like meter and ponderous arrangement. The epic track of this album is the aforementioned "Beneath a Phrygian Sky," with distorted electric guitar accents and an acoustic guitar melody carrying McKennitt on another journey into her romanticized version of the ancient world. --John Diliberto

Customer Reviews:

Sounds A Bit Like M E H D I.......2007-07-26

Oh, Wow! This is a cd that will be liked by all who enjoy M E H D I, E N Y A or even Loreena Mckinnetts Previous works. It is the very essence of good new age. So tranquil, yet so spirited, this cd is a refreshing break from my well-worn collection, I just keep wanting to listen to it over and over again. I am amazed! It reminds me somewhat of Celtic Women, but still very unique. This is music to the soul. Absolutely relaxing, as well.

ALSO RECOMMENDED: M E H D I ~ Instrumental Paradise Volume 8..A True Gem.

Ancient Muse Review.......2007-07-25

This is classic, recognizable McKinnett. If you are a fan, you'll like it. If you are not, you will say, "What's new?"

Not my style...!.......2007-07-18

Sounds from the celtic music craze, zillions of years ago. We've heard it all before. And yes... they do call that music and have the nerve to label it under jazz...! Only one piece of advice keep your money or buy something else with it, unless you need a musical decor for cheap smooching.

Loreena is back in Style.......2007-07-13

Loreena McKennitt is one of my all time favorite recording artists...and she truly deserves the title of artist...she writes, arranges and performs her own music in her own studio, and her voice is gorgeous, her music lush, exotic, rich in complexity and arrangement, and just a delight for the soul. It is wonderful to have her in good tune, sharing her melodic and stirring "musings" not in an ancient way at all, but in a modern, satisfying and imaginitive manner that communicates the deepest aspects of her talents directly to our own hearts!

An Ancient Muse.......2007-07-04

A wonderful new album from Loreena. If you like her previous recordings, you will not be dissappointed.

Average customer rating: Sparkling melodies and lyrics on Martina's newest CD ! Martina! Great songs Brilliant CD !! Solid McBride Release

Waking Up Laughing Martina McBride Manufacturer: RCA/Sony/BMG ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Contemporary Country | Country | Styles | Music New Traditionalist | Contemporary Country | Country | Styles | Music General | Country | Styles | Music Contemporary | Bluegrass | Country | Styles | Music $9.99 and Under | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Country | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music All Blowout Music | Blowout Music | Stores | Music $9.99 and Under | Prices | Blowout Music | Stores | Music More Titles at Least 25% Off | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: A Hundred Miles or More: A Collection Let It Go Big Dog Daddy Live at Texas Stadium 5th Gear ASIN: B000NOKAPI Release Date: 2007-04-03

Tracks:

1. If I Had Your Name
2. Cry Cry (Till The Sun Shines)
3. Tryin' To Find A Reason
4. For These Times
5. Anyway (Album & Digital Single Version)
6. How I Feel
7. I'll Still Be Me
8. Beautiful Again
9. Everybody Does
10. House Of A Thousand Dreams
11. Love Land

Amazon.com

Martina McBride has long been a champion of music as social consciousness, particularly for abused women ("Independence Day") and children. On Waking Up Laughing, her ninth album and the follow-up to Timeless, her platinum-selling album of country classics, she advances the theme while expanding it. While two songs explore the issue of unwed mothers (particularly the exquisite "Love Land," which closes the album), and another, "Beautiful Again," touches on child sexual abuse, her overall repertoire embraces the wholeness of family, and of standing strong together in the face of adversity and defeat. Musically, McBride has always proved to be an elegant thorn--her song selection is often inspired (and here, she co-wrote three tunes, including the skyscraping single "Anyway"), but she has tended to use her huge, ride-the-wave soprano full-tilt, without employing the subtle shadings that would make her even more emotionally resonant. On Waking Up Laughing she seems to have worked on the problem, yet in her second foray as solo producer, she still tends to gild the lily instrumentally--inflating string bridges between choruses, for example, or loading the opening country-pop track, "If I Had Your Name," with a Southern-rock guitar break, a listen-to-me fiddle showcase, a Celtic guitar intro, and a close that brings to mind George Harrison's sitar in play-it-backward mode. That said, she makes fine use of what sounds like a black female choir on the uplifting "For These Times," and wisely keeps the haunting break-up ballad "Tryin' to Find a Reason" (with Keith Urban's harmony vocals and guitar solo) lean and affecting. As McBride works to refine her pastiche of creativity, commerciality, and social awareness, she slyly takes more chances than one might think, all the while rallying old fans and making new ones. --Alanna Nash

Album Description

After 16 million in sales and 22 top 10 singles, some artists might be afraid to tinker with success and tempt fate. But not Martina McBride. Following up on her platinum-selling Timeless album, a poignant collection of country classics representing her first effort as solo producer, she's at the production helm again for her ninth studio release, Waking Up Laughing. Since her debut in 1992, McBride has maintained a consistent presence on the country charts, including six number one singles, and has also enjoyed crossover success in the pop and adult contemporary genres. Always striving for new artistic heights, McBride is breaking new ground by serving as producer, writer and artist for her latest album, which includes three songs she co-wrote with the Warren Brothers and other top songwriters.

Customer Reviews:

Sparkling melodies and lyrics on Martina's newest CD !.......2007-07-05

I first became acquainted with Martina McBride's beautifully expressive voice through listening to her sing "Valentine" on one of Jim Brickman's albums... Instantly smitten, I began buying her music and have been happily listening every since then... This newest CD has a wealth of good music... with the incredibly lyrical "Beautiful Again", "House Of A Thousand Dreams" and "Anyway"... as with any new CD, I kept waiting for the few songs that I didn't care for... but this never happens to me with Martina's insightful song selection and soaring vocals -- I find myself listening to this album for hours at a time... and know that it is indeed a golden nugget for Martina to cherish always...! Most impressive A++++++!

Martina!.......2007-06-27

I just love this CD! Martina McBride has appropriately named this CD "Waking Up Laughing". After listening to it I feel upbeat and happy. She's the best to come along in many years!

Great songs.......2007-06-27

I love Martina McBride. This cds have lots of good songs. It's a must buy for any fan of hers. She's awesome in her concert I just went to a few weeks ago...

Brilliant CD !!.......2007-06-23

There are some artists whose albums I buy without even hearing a note. Brad Paisley, Tim McGraw and especially TRACE ADKINS, TRAVIS TRITT and RANDY TRAVIS. There are very few female artists who I buy as I usually only end up liking 2-3 tracks. Martina McBride is changing that and becoming one of those artists who I automatically buy.

Here in NZ we don't have country radio stations so we don't get to hear new tracks and artists unless we do so online (which I do). In some ways this is great because we don't hear songs thrashed until all the meaning and life have been wrung out of them.

Having said all that, Waking up crying is a great CD. I played it through 4 times without skipping through any tracks. I loved every track. Although 1 or 2 were a bit "poppy" it just shows Martina's versatility. My all time favourites are I'll still be me, Love land, House of a thousand dreams and of course the track Anyway which gives me goosebumps every time I hear it.

5++ for this album which will not disappoint new and old fans

Kia ora

Solid McBride Release.......2007-06-21

Martina McBride has become one of the most dependable artists in country music, and "Waking Up Laughing" continues her streak of releasing enjoyable, entertaining records.

She ranges from sentimental love songs to heartbreak songs to survivor songs, and maintains her soulful, powerful voice on everyone of them.

"Anyway," "Tryin'To Find A Reason," "Cry Cry," and "House of a Thousand Dreams" should not disappoint too many, if any, of her fans.

Average customer rating: Not a CC from Hot Fuss A stunning transformation As good as Hot Fuzz... just different doesnt measure up to hot fuss I love it!

Sam's Town The Killers Manufacturer: Island ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Similar Items: Hot Fuss Eyes Open The Information The Black Parade The Open Door ASIN: B000GY729M Release Date: 2006-10-03

Tracks:

1. Sam's Town
2. Enterlude
3. When You Were Young
4. Bling (Confession of a King)
5. For Reasons Unknown
6. Read My Mind
7. Uncle Jonny
8. Bones
9. My List
10. This River Is Wild
11. Why Do I Keep Counting?
12. Exitlude

Amazon.com

The Killers five-million-selling debut, 2004's Hot Fuss, saw the stylish Las Vegas quartet mining inspiration from its favorite '80s British acts Duran Duran, the Cure, and the Smiths. On its follow-up, the group turns its focus homeward. First there's the album title, Sam's Town, which pays tribute to the old-school local casino where the band got its start. Then there's the music inside, a collection of windswept rockers in the vein of Bruce Springsteen that leave the indie-disco vibe of "Mr. Brightside" in the desert dust. Working with producers Alan Moulder and Flood (best known for their work with U2, Depeche Mode and Nine Inch Nails), everything here sounds bigger and shinier, with full-blown strings and choirs coloring epics like "When You Were Young" and "The River Is Wild." Coming soon to a stadium near you. --Aidin Vaziri

Customer Reviews:

Not a CC from Hot Fuss.......2007-07-24

The 2nd album from the killers doesn't dissappoint at all, it has 7 to 8 songs that easily could be picked as single, track 6 "read my mind" being my favorite. Sam's town, When You were young,Bling, For Reasons Unknowned, Uncle Johnny, Bones, This River is Wild, all great songs, and above all this is not a carbon copy from hot fuss.

A stunning transformation.......2007-07-24

SAM'S TOWN immediately hits the listener with a sound that is significantly different from HOT FUSS. If it wasn't for the vocals, it would be fair to say you were listening to a totally different band. This type of change is risky in a new band; the fear being that fans will be alienated. Personally, I love when bands continue to evolve and search for new sounds and themes. It keeps things from becoming boring and it prevents that, "Didn't I hear this before?" feeling.

The question is it successful? The answer is, "Yes."

Hard driving anthems relating to genuine emotions triumph over artifice and The Killers pull it off very well here. Flowers' voice strains for creditability when pushed, but he pulls it off and while lacking the force of many other rockers, his vulnerability makes the songs that much better. While they don't all come off with the same power , the songs hold up in their new settings and the total package comes together. While still not a classic, this is a worthy effort from The Killers and I hope they continue to push themselves to make music worth listening to.

As good as Hot Fuzz... just different.......2007-07-14

The title says the bulk of how I feel. I listen to the album in its entirety whenever I listen to it... I like every song though there are some that I like more than others (which is the same with Hot Fuzz).

The music is a bit bolder, and a bit more grandiose (musically and lyrically), but the synth is still there and after giving the album a listen or 3 you'll be singing along to each track. The lead singer's (Flowers) voice sounds a bit different to me on this album, but not for better or worse, just slightly different. The album definitely seems to be more mature (but I have no idea where the Springsteen analogy came from), the songs and the hooks aren't as poppy (at least not in every song) and it takes more than one listening for some songs to grow on you. (For instance I didn't like 'Sams Town' (track 1) the first couple times I heard it, but now its one of my favorites).

Overall, if you like popular music, or alternative music in general... its worth listening to, but I wouldn't expect a life altering experience.

doesnt measure up to hot fuss.......2007-07-09

sorry to all of you who really like this album, but in my own opinion, it can't measure up to 'hot fuss'

I love it!.......2007-06-27

The only thing that upset me was that there is no Killers c.d that has all my favorite songs by them on it. I do like most of the tracks on this one and on each c.d. that I bought they have great opening songs to start you out.

Average customer rating: Welcome to the new dark ages A Throwback Very nice Superb Disappointment

New Maps of Hell Bad Religion Manufacturer: Epitaph / Ada ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Punk | Hardcore & Punk | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Similar Items: Zeitgeist Music from Regions Beyond A Poet's Life The Empire Strikes First New Wave ASIN: B000RGSOBO Release Date: 2007-07-10

Tracks:

1. New Dark Ages
2. Grains Of Wrath
3. Fields Of Mars
4. Germs Of Perfection
5. Requiem For Dissent
6. Submission Complete
7. Grand Delusion, The
8. Honest Goodbye
9. Prodigal Son
10. Before You Die
11. Lost Pilgrim
12. Heroes And Martyrs

Amazon.com

Bad Religion has for years been considered by new crops of listeners to be a vital band because they're such OG hardcore kingpins. And while the band's justly revered--they've managed to stay together for almost 25 years, all while getting better and growing their audience--"political punk realness" is not where their strengths lie. As to their political numbers, they were never quite able to pen the sort of personal yet timeless anthems that the Minutemen or the Ex did, while in terms of 1-2-3-4 punch, you'd get far more visceral thrills from the first Damned single. Of course, Southern California punk bands injected bushels of melody and hooks into their songs, and B.R. added elements of metal and even psychedelia to their own taut tunes. Their fourteenth album to date, New Maps is a terrific sounding record; at least two-thirds of it begs many repeated listens. The album's second single, "Heroes and Martyrs," is exactly what the band does best. A tightly-coiled and super revved-up anthem, it pits the energy and fast Barre chord sound of the greatest hardcore with a delicious, poppy production and doubled-up backing vocals that brings to mind Queen (or at least Queens of the Stone Age), in the very best way. --Mike McGonigal

Album Description

In a world ruled increasingly by superstition and intolerance, Bad Religion's rousing wall-of-sound punk seems about as necessary now as ever before. It is the impassioned sound of reason, anthems of a bittersweet idealism and a guarded hope set to propulsive guitars and charging drumbeats. And while most groups with even half the artistic output have long ago morphed into stylistic self-parody, Bad Religion is currently surging forward with a renewed creative intensity. Their fourteenth album is both a nod to the band's defiant past and an undeniable step forward in the evolution of a genre they helped to define. Look for them on this summer's Warped Tour, inspiring a new generation of fans.

Customer Reviews:

Welcome to the new dark ages.......2007-07-29

Finally, the new Bad Religion album! I held out for the Japanese version with acoustic versions of "Sorrow" and "God Song." Besides, it's not like I could just buy the American version in a store, though that didn't stop me from trying the three most likely to have it.

1. 52 Seconds: 5/10; It's actually 56 seconds, and it rocks, but it's hard to hear the words, and they aren't that good anyway. It's really one of those pointless openers.
2. Heroes & Martyrs: 6/10; It's really hard to hear the vocals on this song. The production for the whole album is kind of ugly, but this song is probably the worst offender.
3. Germs of Perfection: 7/10; It's an okay song, but like the whole album, the lyrics just aren't up to the usual Bad Religion standards.
4. New Dark Ages: 9/10; This is possibly the best song on the album, and the closest thing to a title track. Still, they clearly reused riffs from "Atheist Peace" and "All There Is" from their last album.
5. Requiem for Dissent: 8/10; The gang vocals are a nice touch.
6. Before You Die: 8/10; This song is starting to grow on me, but again, the lyrics are kind of lame.
7. Honest Goodbye: 8/10; A little experimentation here, but it's a welcome change of pace and content.
8. Dearly Beloved: 6/10; Poor production on this song.
9. Grains of Wrath: 7/10; It almost has a good message, something like Soul Asylum's "Black Gold," but this song is a little too short and ambiguous.
10. Murder: 4/10; This song should be called "Bad Ape," but it's just filler anyway.
11. Scrutiny: 9/10; It's a dead ringer for "Atheist Peace," but it's still a good song.
12. Prodigal Son: 5/10; For one of the longer songs on the album, this is really disappointing. I thought it was going to be about Bush.
13. The Grand Delusion: 4/10; So it's come to this: They're parodying titles of Styx songs. This is one of the worst songs on the album.
14. The Lost Pilgrim: 6/10; This song had the potential to be a lot better.
15. Submission Complete: 6/10; This must be one of the lectures Graffin gives his students. The concept is good, but the lyrics just don't work.
16. Fields of Mars: 9/10; As usual, Bad Religion at least manages to close the album well. The piano is a nice touch. Still, this song is missing something, and it sounds a lot like "Live Again (the Fall of Man)."
17. Sorrow (Acoustic Version): 8/10; It's a good song, but it was already kind of poppy before being acousticized. On the plus side, those annoying gunshots are gone.
18. God Song (Acoustic Version): 10+/10; The reason you should buy the Japanese version. As good as the version on "Against the Grain" is, this version is better.

In general, there aren't any really awful tracks on here. The album just has three huge problems.
1. The music drowns out the vocals on many songs. Look, I'm no producer, but I think you would turn up Greg's vocals so he's at least somewhat coherent on the verses for "Heroes & Martyrs" and "Dearly Beloved."
2. A lot of recycled riffs from the last album, which is nothing new for Bad Religion, but still, they really overdo it here.
3. The lyrics! Some songs make me question if this is really Greg Graffin. There's really not one single poetically coherent (no, that's not an oxymoron) song on here.

I think this album will go down as one of Bad Religion's worst. It's almost like a reversion, like what Metallica tried to do with "St. Anger." Songs like "Eat Your Dog," "Oligarchy," and "World War III" wouldn't be entirely out of place on "New Maps of Hell."

Also, on a personal note, to everybody who bashes "The New America," it's actually one of Bad Religion's best albums. The music is good, the range of content is superior to any other Bad Religion album, and the lyrics are brilliant. The only reason you don't like them is because they're optimistic (hey, 2000 was a pretty good year until the end). "New Maps of Hell" is kind of an anti-"The New America."

A Throwback.......2007-07-29

Bad Religion harkens the days of "Suffer" and "Against The Grain" with their latest release "New Maps of Hell". It is short, fast and uncompromising in both its musical intensity and fierce ideology. Bad Religion has long been the voice of reason in whatever tattered remains is left of the punk rock scene and "New Maps of Hell" is one of their most furious efforts to date. The tunes continue to focus on politics as well as their disdain of organized religion. The production isn't as clean as "Empire Strikes First", but I believe this was done purposely, recapturing the early 90s when they were recording on their own for Epitaph. All the Bad Religion trademarks are still here: Fast, inspired music complete with typical Bad Religion vocal choruses all which sound as good as ever. Any long-time Bad Religion fans as well as new ones will enjoy this.

Very nice.......2007-07-27

Hmmmmmm well this album is the same old Bad Religion, but just some more new songs my opinion is if your a fan you gotta buy it if not a fan check it out first, but yeah it's great.

Superb.......2007-07-26

Let me just start by saying that i made an error in my review of Recipe For Hate, due to the fact that i was hungover i made the mistake of suggesting that some of the songs should be left for Generator which we all know came out BEFORE Recipe For Hate. Right now that thats out of the way onto the review.

My first impressions were that the album was good...then i listened to it again and again and it became great. BR consistentlty release punk rock that IS PUNK ROCK and not this radio pop punk emo hybrid that floods the airwaves these days.

It starts off with 52 Seconds which basically explains that Greg knows he's 'part of something greater than himself' but as always doesnt know 'what it is,' and the album ends with 'Fields Of Mars' which is a bit different sounding with a piano being implemented into the mix. I know that they used piano on their album 'How Could Hell Be Any Worse' but it sounds cleaner on this album.

The sound quality isnt that great IF you have an extra bass boost button turned on but if its off then it sounds great...not quite up to the standards of Process Of Belief but still much better than Stranger Than Fiction and Recipe For Hate.

The lyrical content isnt quite as strong as their big 3 albums but its still relevant and enjoyable to listen to.

The album is more Punk Rock orientated than Process and Empire which is quite welcome. I'd say this album is as good as Generator, Against The Grain, Suffer and No Control.

If your a BR then its a no brainer, go and buy the thing, it's awesome and its alot better than recent releases from other bands lately...cough cough Sum 41 cough cough

Disappointment.......2007-07-24

What a disappointment this record! I am a HUGE Bad Religion fan, and was stoked to pick up the new release. Was very disappointed in this record. First off, each track doesn't come off as individual. Every track seems to blend into the next with no discernable differences amongst them. I do like how they've gone to a more "Minor" tone to each track, but overall they all sound basically the same.

The biggest complaint I have with this record is with the mixing. Greg's vocals get swallowed up by the production. Too many times the guitars and harmony vocals completely drown out the lead vocal. So much to the point where things tend to sound "muddy". I much prefer to hear Greg's vocals distinctly above the rest of the production. Not sure what they did differently this time, but there are WAY too many times when Greg's vocals are indistinguishable.

Whoever did the sound editing on this one should be shot!

Average customer rating: fans will enjoy these previously un-released tracks New Moon by Elliott Smith Gone Too Soon An artist who will be forever missed Essential for Elliott fans!!!

New Moon Elliott Smith Manufacturer: Kill Rock Stars ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Indie Rock | Indie & Lo-Fi | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Similar Items: Sky Blue Sky The Reminder Icky Thump Easy Tiger Release the Stars ASIN: B000OMD4BG Release Date: 2007-05-08

Tracks:

1. Angel In The Snow
2. Talking To Mary
3. High Times
4. New Monkey
5. Looking Over My Shoulder
6. Going Nowhere
7. Riot Coming
8. All Cleaned Out
9. First Timer
10. Go By
11. Miss Misery
12. Thirteen

Tracks:

1. Georgia, Georgia
2. Whatever
3. Big Decision
4. Placeholder
5. New Disaster
6. Seen How Things Are Hard
7. Fear City
8. Either/Or
9. Pretty Mary K
10. Almost Over
11. See You Later
12. Half Right

Amazon.com

When Elliott Smith died late in 2003, he took with him one of the unique songwriting gifts of his generation: part folk grandeur, part punk fury, and virtually bottomless in eight short years of solo recordings. Thankfully for that generation, and many to come, he left behind two dozen songs that his Portland, Oregon, producer and pal Larry Crane has crafted into a retrospective celebration of Smith's contribution to music. Mostly house-recorded demos plucked from the fertile three years that followed his 1994 debut Roman Candle (including an early take of "Miss Misery"), there's an eminent clarity to these songs that makes them sound like they were recorded yesterday. A lone acoustic guitar is the general accompaniment to Smith's lamenting wail, his self-deprecating lyrics forever a contrast to the sheer beauty of the melodies. "What are you doing hanging out with me?" he asks in "Whatever (Folk Song in C)," his double-tracked harmonies mocking both Simon and Garfunkel. Along with fragile versions of "Angel in the Snow," "Looking over My Shoulder," and a cover of Big Star's "Thirteen," it's as eternal as anything Smith offered when he was with us, and, as one of several shining moments, makes you forget he ever left. --Scott Holter

More from Elliott Smith

Elliott Smith	Roman Candle	Either/Or
Figure 8	XO	From a Basement on a Hill

Album Description

Disc One: 01. Angel In The Snow From the Jan/Feb 1995 sessions at Leslie Uppinghouse's home studio that yielded much of the S/T record. Elliott's mix appeared on a CD that came with Mike McGonigal's magazine, Yeti: Volume I.

02. Talking to Mary From the 1995 sessions at Leslie's. This is Elliott's rough mix as the master tape is sadly missing.

03. High Times From the 1995 sessions at Leslie's. An early working title was "Coma Kid". The "drums" are really just doubled snare (with the throw off loose) and ride cymbal.

04. New Monkey From sessions for Either/Or. The "bar" was certainly La Luna in Portland, with "the millions of fans ignoring the bands."

05. Looking Over My Shoulder From sessions for Either/Or. The title of this song is not certain.

06. Going Nowhere From sessions for Either/Or. Due to the limits of eight tracks you rarely get bass guitar on these sessions unless it is integral to the arrangement. One of the most haunting songs in this collection.

07. Riot Coming From the 1995 sessions at Leslie's. Notice the excellent melodic electric guitar part.

08. "All Cleaned Out" This song was tracked at Jackpot! Recording Studio in early 1997. The title is an assumption as there were no notes on or in the tape box.

09. First Timer Tracked at Jackpot! in early 1997. With different lyrics this song has seen life as "Ghost Writer" or "From a Poisoned Well". Elliott recorded the guitars too loud to tape in this collection, hence the occasional "chunk" noise.

10. Go By From sessions for Either/Or. Recorded to 8-track by Elliott in 1996, but then bounced to 2" tape by Rob and Tom where they added overdubs. It was obviously a contender for Either/Or at some point. Early versions of the song were known as "Bye Bye" and "Two Timed".

11. Miss Misery (early version) This song was tracked at Jackpot! in early 1997. It was later recut with lyric changes at Jackpot! and used in the film, Good Will Hunting.

12. Thirteen This Big Star/Alex Chilton song featured often in Elliott's live sets and in the Lucky Three short film by Jem Cohen. This version was recorded by Rob Jones and Elliott Smith in Elliott's Basement in April 1996 and was broadcast June 1, 1996, on Rob's Locals Show on KWVA 88.1 Eugene, OR. This was a simple live take with acoustic guitar and vocals.

Disc Two: 01. Georgia, Georgia From the 1995 sessions at Leslie's. Even though it was older, it was an early contender for the Either/Or running order.

02. Whatever (Folk Song in C) Apparently from the September 1994 sessions at Tony's. Features JJ Gonson's vintage Domino guitar that Elliott favored. Also known under the working title "Hanging Out With Me".

03. Big Decision From the 1995 sessions at Leslie's. Elliott's mix appeared on the CD compilation, A Slice of Lemon.

04. Placeholder From sessions for Either/Or. Sung so softly, but really beautiful.

05. New Disaster From sessions for Either/Or. Vocals and music are from different takes. Vocals are from the reel that provided From a Basement on the Hill with "Last Hour", but the tape reel flange scraping sound (which you can hear on "Last Hour") was even more distracting on this song. Music was from a later instrumental take, with organ and drums but no vocals. This is the only instance on this record where we combined takes in this manner.

06. Seen How Things Are Hard This song was actually recorded on a 4-track cassette. Mixed by Tom and Rob for possible inclusion of Either/Or. Also known under the working title, "Sleigh Bells".

07. Fear City From sessions for Either/Or. Also known as "See My City Dead". Check out the cool melodic organ part and Elliott's grooving drum style.

08. Either/Or From sessions for the album Either/Or. Apparently the song title was appropriated for the album title but not the song. There's also a version of this song with alternate lyrics called "No More".

09. Pretty Mary K (other version) From sessions for Either/Or. This is a completely different song than the Figure 8 track, but seems to feature different words with a parallel theme. An early version was worked up as "Everything's Okay" - note the similar phonetics.

10. Almost Over From sessions for Either/Or. Some of his fastest guitar picking in this collection.

11. See You Later

12. Half Right These are two Heatmiser songs from their third album, Mic City Sons, performed solo in this collection. From the Rob Jones' Locals Show sessions, "See You Later" was released on the Air Check cassette on Rob's label, Jealous Butcher.

Technical Note: Except for the special case of "New Disaster", where independent instrumental and vocal takes were combined, all songs are presented as tracked by Elliott, and every effort was made to check stereo placement, track levels, editing ideas, arrangement ideas and the overall feel that were present in his rough (or released) mixes. In many cases remixing was simply an attempt to make the elements of the song slightly more legible, and in other cases to reduce the background tape hiss. In no way is this album simply a product of the studio in 2006 - it is a collection of songs, any of which could have easily been included on his albums of 1995 or 1997.

Songs previously unreleased except for: "See You Later", Air Check cassette (1999,JB020/Jealous Butcher/limited to 300 copies) "Angel in the Snow" Yeti: Volume I (2000, 2500 issues printed/pressed) "Big Decision" - A Slice of Lemon (1995,KRS100/Kill Rock Stars, still in print)

Customer Reviews:

fans will enjoy these previously un-released tracks.......2007-07-21

In my Alabama high school, our English teacher had us select writers to do a report on. She carefully went down the list announcing a name with a short one-line bio to quickly introduce the writer to the class. My hand shot up to claim Sylvia Plath when I learned she committed suicide in her thirties; I was morbidly intrigued. In preparation for that school report I remember sitting in the library with headphones on listening to a BBC recording Plath made of her poem "Lady Lazarus." I can still hear the tone in her voice when she announces: "I have done it again. One year in every ten I manage it.... And I a smiling woman. I am only thirty. And like the cat I have nine times to die.... The second time I meant To last it out and not come back at all.... Dying Is an art, like everything else. I do it exceptionally well. I do it so it feels like hell. I do it so it feels real. I guess you could say I've a call." At the time I couldn't help but read into every quiver as evidence that Plath knew she was going to take her own life shortly after writing and recording this poem.

I approach Elliott Smith's posthumous release New Moon with the same ears; with song titles like "Going Nowhere," "Whatever," "Almost Over" and "Big Decision," I thought I would hear something in the lyrics that would announce his early death in 2003 (which was first reported as a suicide, though the evidence is still inconclusive on whether or not the two stab wounds were self-inflicted). Epitaph Records released an album with some of his newer material in 2004, but in New Moon, Kill Rock Stars offers a 24-song double-CD with material he recorded between 1994 and 1997. The CDs offer more examples of his songwriting brilliance, using acoustic guitars and simple recordings that are the basis of his earlier work. I never really got into the overly produced stuff he put out after leaving Kill Rock Stars, so this CD offers a great look backwards at a sound that was so familiar to me in college. There are no big surprises on this album, but fans will enjoy these previously un-released tracks.

New Moon by Elliott Smith.......2007-07-16

Elliott Smith was a musical genius no matter what his personal life or his untimely ending were about. He was like no other of our time---if you are a Smith fan, this collection will rock your world ten times over. Extraordinary!

Gone Too Soon.......2007-06-28

I love this collection. It's like two lost albums were found. Some of his most beautiful and haunting material. The world lost a brilliant songwriter when Elliott passed away. His death is as important to me as John Lennon's (if you knew me, you'd know that that means alot in my world); they both could have gone on to contribute so much more to the world. Maybe they're somewhere playing together right now. That would be cool.

An artist who will be forever missed.......2007-06-27

I lived in Portland Oregon in the mid 1990's and some of my best memories are the Elliot Smith shows i saw in quaint local bars and clubs, up close and personal, just Elliot and his guitar. I always loved him with his band as well, but to me, the true artist in Elliot Smith always came shining through in his solo shows, when his fantastic songwriting was front and center.

If you are the kind of person who owns every Elliot Smith CD, and considers the Kill Rock Stars records to be his best, then New Moon is a must have. There is no need for me to go through track by track to describe the beauty of this album. The care that went into this release by the people who put it together deserves five stars in itself.

Listening to New Moon made me realize how great Elliot Smith was and how much i miss hearing him and seeing him create new music.

Essential for Elliott fans!!!.......2007-06-27

It totally astounded me. I had no expectations, but would not have been surprised if these tracks were left off Elliott's records because they were somehow sub-standard. They are not. Either/Or could have been a perfect double CD with the inclusion of these tracks. If you are an Elliott fan, you will be exstatic about these archival gems.

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2. Riddim & Soul
3. Sarah DeLane
4. SGB0012 [Explicit Lyrics]
5. SGB0013 Ricky Martin Karaoke
6. SGB011 (Karaoke CD&G)
7. SGB018
8. SNAG
9. Songs from the Sea to the Shore
10. Soul

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