Writer's Block

About the Artist
In the music business since his teens, Mike Ragogna has worn quite a few hats. But whether it be as a singer, songwriter, guitarist, keyboardist, producer, arranger or even songplugger, he has always worked from the heart.

New York-born Mike Ragogna was signed at 15 as a songwriter by producers Terry Cashman & Tommy West (Jim Croce, Dion, Mary Travers) who spent years developing him as a recording artist for their label, Lifesong Records (Crack The Sky, Henry Gross, Dean Friedman, Gail Davies). With their guidance, Mike blossomed as a songwriter and his first cover was by the group Hero on its classic college-promoted album Spider-Man: Rock Reflections Of A Superhero. After writing and recording songs for Tippi Hedren’s international hit movie, Roar, Mike teamed with producer Terrence P. Minogue to record his debut album. Safari In America, released in 1982, was greeted positively by various music magazines including Billboard.

His first major label release appeared in 1985, when Tommy West signed him to MTM/Capitol Records—Mary Tyler Moore’s Nashville-based record company. Mike’s album Almost Brothers (recorded Everlys-style with vocalist Steve Mosto) was released and critically acclaimed by all of the major "country" publications of the time. The album featured nine originals and one cover song. Of those, four were country charters—"Don’t Tell Me Love Is Kind," "Birds Of A Feather," "What’s Your Name" and "I Don’t Love Her Anymore". Mike’s first big hit as a songwriter came when his "Slow Boat To China," was recorded by label-mates Girls Next Door. The song climbed into the country Top Ten and was one of 1986’s top-selling country singles. It was also the first major hit for MTM’s publishing division, Uncle Artie Music, and received an ASCAP award honoring it as one of the most frequently-played country singles of that year.

Instead of following up with another "country" project Mike Ragogna and Steve Mosto decided to be more true to their craft. Moving on, they recorded and performed as the groups Body Politic and Bone People and as solo artists.

Mike’s next solo album, Minefield Diaries, was independently released in 1999, and it contained eleven would-be anthems including the tracks "Easter," "Wonderland," "Recoverie," "Dinosaur Bones," "Bright Eyes" and a cover of Queen’s "’39." But his 2003 effort, Invisible World, recast Mike Ragogna as a maturing recording artist and songwriter. The album was a heart-felt collection of soulful ("Valentine’s Day," "Build Ourselves A Love") and jazzy ("Come To Rome," "Invisible World," "The Getaway") pop songs, mainly crafted by Mike and his former music partner. But also included were his loving interpretations of Paul Simon’s "Something So Right," Stevie Wonder’s "Golden Lady" and a Dion DiMucci nod—an updated version of that artist’s take on the Smokey Robinson-penned, "The Way You Do The Things You Do." Musicians included drummer Zoro (Lenny Kravitz, Bobby Brown, New Edition), keyboardist Dick Simms (Eric Clapton), Joe Sublett (Stevie Ray Vaughan), Novi Novog (Michael Jackson! , Doobie Brothers, Carly Simon) and jazz/blues-rock guitarist, Fino Roverato. Strings were compliments of arranger/conductor Terence P. Minogue, and are performed here as Orchestra Montego.

In addition to writing and recording, Mike also has served as A&R Director for various record labels, including Razor & Tie, where he produced and oversaw catalog compilations and reissues throughout the ’90s. He also handled the A&R aspects for the launch of BMG’s reissue label, Buddha Records, which has since become BMG Heritage. He has been an integral member of the Universal Music Group’s catalog division where he has compiled and produced high-profile anthologies by such diverse artists as Joni Mitchell, Crosby & Nash, Joan Armatrading, Herb Alpert, Gin Blossoms, Suzanne Vega, Joan Baez, John Hiatt, Flying Burrito Brothers, Steve Forbert, Joe Jackson, Rush, Aerosmith, Helmet, Scorpions, Cinderella,

Product Description
Mike has recorded what many consider to be his finest project, Writer’s Block, which actually was inspired by the affliction. "I had the worst case of writer’s block but creatively, I felt the time was right to record. So I kind of twisted the ‘writer’s block’ concept and recorded some of my favorite songs by writers with depth, focusing on a Brill Building-style of songwriting. Adding those tracks on to my handful of originals, the album shaped itself into a story that, in the end, turned into a very personal project. And I think everyone who worked on the project had a really fun time at this writer’s block party!" In addition to choosing favorites by iconic artists like Joni Mitchell, Carole King and Barry Mann, Mike championed some current favorites such as "Superman (It’s Not Easy)" by Five For Fighting and the jazz-pop noir of John Mayer’s "Neon." He also covered a pair of songs by singer-songwriter Bob Hillman, an artist Mike discovered at NYC’s Sidewalk Café. Musicians for this project include Fino Roverato on guitars, Steve Welch on all keyboards and string arrangements, Osama Afifi on bass, Richie Gajate-Garcia on drums, Warren Ham on background vocals and Lester Chambers, formerly of The Chambers Brothers, on harmonicas and "chats" on the title track.

Writer's Block,Mike Ragogna,Trafficbeat Entertainment,United States of America

---

Average customer rating: Writers Block-buster! A little Plain? I seriously don't get it... I give it an A Jay Leno

Writer's Block Peter Bjorn and John Manufacturer: Almost Gold ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Indie Rock | Indie & Lo-Fi | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Sweden | Scandinavia | Europe | International | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Swedish Pop | Euro Pop | Pop | Styles | Music Similar Items: We Were Dead Before the Ship Even Sank The Reminder Back to Black Sound of Silver The Good, the Bad & the Queen ASIN: B000NJL4TY Release Date: 2007-03-06

Tracks:

1. Writer's Block
2. Objects of My Affection
3. Young Folks
4. Amsterdam
5. Start To Melt
6. Up Against the Wall
7. Paris 2004
8. Let's Call it Off (Single Mix)
9. The Chills
10. Roll the Credits
11. Poor Cow
12. Ancient Curse
13. All Those Expectations (Weak Mix)
14. Let's Call it Off (Girl Talk Remix)

From Amazon.co.uk Review

As fine an album as this might be (and indeed it is), it serves a much higher purpose for which it must be immediately recognised. The twee Swedish trio have single-handedly tugged whistling out of popular music's pits where it was stuffed by German soft metal granddads The Scorpions back in the early 90s. It's not even particularly proficient whistling - it's a bit skewiff really, a little out of tune - but it's tacked onto the irresistibly bobbing, Velvet-Underground-via-The-Concretes infectiousness of "Young Folks", augmented by the warm-ember vocals of ex-Concrete Victoria Bergsman herself, and by association sounds fairly heroic. Accidentally anthemic, perhaps, but anthemic nonetheless. Result.

Which sets a tone for the rest of this off-kilter lo-fi record. Draw a slightly wonky line from Simon & Garfunkel through to The Shins, making sure you take in the sharp Scandinavian indie-pop of the '90s (Wannadies, The Cardigans) and modern day peers (Radio Dept, Shout Out Louds) and you have a folk album that isn't really all that folk, swimming through its own dreamy washes of ambition. The drumming on tracks like "Let's Call It Off" and "Paris 2004" is so elementary you might as well add your own, but it keeps the intuitive, simplistic 60's beat melodies trickling steadily onwards. The underlying appeal is that things could snap like an elastic band at any moment, that things are beautifully limited. Less writers block, more loving the detail of your first chapter so much you have no inclination to move on. --James Berry

Customer Reviews:

Writers Block-buster!.......2007-06-28

This record is beautiful. It could have been a cd of just "Young Folks" being played over and over and i would have been happy but there are plenty of gems here, and you don't have to dig very deep to find them. I highly reccommend this album to anyone who loves life, girls, boys, The Beatles, the crisp morning air tightening your face as you first step out of your building onto the street as city buses shamble by and you feel like you're just on the verge of a some kind of "happening" but it hasn't fully been realised yet- but soon will be.

A little Plain?.......2007-06-27

In my never ending search for new talents I chose this CD from the best list of whatever year it was released (I am in a constant state of light buzz so small details become meaningless). At a first listen I found their sound somewhat simplistic or plain? On the extra tracks I did come across a simple but very nice song about the material which I did enyoy quite a bit. The one with the catchy whistling that I have heard on a music channel on TV is too plain and uneventful but as a whole so far the CD was okey, nothing to die and go to the moon for, good vocals, accessible melodies with about three songs that stood above the rest. One of the songs in the album was this distorted guitars that did not appeal at all, to its credit it did not last very long. Mixed feelings about Peter Bjorn and John, perhaps is the type of music but I have always believed that in the end Music is Music and either you are the best or up there with the best or not. "Writer's Block" so far (only 1 listen) is kind of a lukewarm affair and that does not qualify them as a "sizzling hot" release exactly. 3.5 Stars would be my take, not quite enough to get a 4 stars but hey, who am I to be so judgemental and critical, if they want their 4 stars they can have it. The half star rating is very important because let's say an album is higher that a 4 star but not quite the perfection of a 5 star, what do you do? Go cry to the local lonely hearts club band? Let's just say that if I was giving a party "Writer's Block" could not make it to the rotation, their sound is too Plain? No disrespect intended, just calling them as I see them. No, it is not a 3 star, it's a 3.5 star but since there is none available I choose 4 stars. It does has its moments but it is not a vital, must have so far. There, I said it, either you deliver thrills or just pay bills!

I seriously don't get it..........2007-06-19

I don't understand the praise this album is getting. I have no idea why "young folks" gets played so often on the radio. I can't stand that song. I got the album, not having heard even one bad thing about it, and I honestly do not hear anything redeeming with this group. People tell me that they get a nostalgic feeling while listening to this, but I don't see it. I've wanted to ask people "what do you see in these guys? why do you like this?!?" but I don't want to be rude. But seriously, why is this so popular?

I give it an A.......2007-05-21

Have been hearing the song "Young Folks" on the radio and like it. Decided to buy the whole CD and I sure am glad I did! This is great stuff. A little bit folk, a little bit rock-and-roll, a little bit electronic. "Amsterdam" is a super-interesting, very different song and is my favorite on the album. "Let's Call it Off" is good too. All in all some catchy tunes and a super album.

Jay Leno.......2007-05-19

These two, whom I've never heard before last night, kind of took me back for a moment. I thought I was listening to a new revived Figurine album which is greatly anticipated from that dynamic trio.

I liked the sound, and although faintly mumbled by the poorest sound engineer in Cali. I was able to get a feel for what this Swedish pop group can do. I suggest, if I may, making it yourself.

If you feel the music, live by it, you know they will come to hear it. This group tends to remind me of the smae hope.

Average customer rating: Young Folks Unlistenable Garbage I hvae writer's block Great new band! Five Stars because of Amsterdam

Writer's Block (LTD Edition with Bonus Disc) Peter Bjorn and John Manufacturer: Almost Gold ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Indie Rock | Indie & Lo-Fi | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Sweden | Scandinavia | Europe | International | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Swedish Pop | Euro Pop | Pop | Styles | Music Similar Items: The Good, the Bad & the Queen Sound of Silver We Were Dead Before the Ship Even Sank The Reminder New Magnetic Wonder ASIN: B000MGTFD0 Release Date: 2007-02-06

Tracks:

1. Writers Block
2. Objects Of My Affection
3. Young Folks
4. Amsterdam
5. Start To Melt
6. Up Against The Wall
7. Paris 2004
8. Let's Call It Off (Single Mix)
9. The Chills
10. Roll The Credits
11. Poor Cow

Tracks:

1. Ancient Curse
2. All Those Expectations (Weak Remix)
3. Self-Pity In The Trashcan
4. Let's Call It Off (Original)
5. Young Folks (Sitar Version)
6. Young Folks (Beyond The Wizard's Sleeve Re-Animation)

From Amazon.co.uk Review

As fine an album as this might be (and indeed it is), it serves a much higher purpose for which it must be immediately recognised. The twee Swedish trio have single-handedly tugged whistling out of popular music's pits where it was stuffed by German soft metal granddads The Scorpions back in the early 90s. It's not even particularly proficient whistling - it's a bit skewiff really, a little out of tune - but it's tacked onto the irresistibly bobbing, Velvet-Underground-via-The-Concretes infectiousness of "Young Folks", augmented by the warm-ember vocals of ex-Concrete Victoria Bergsman herself, and by association sounds fairly heroic. Accidentally anthemic, perhaps, but anthemic nonetheless. Result.

Which sets a tone for the rest of this off-kilter lo-fi record. Draw a slightly wonky line from Simon & Garfunkel through to The Shins, making sure you take in the sharp Scandinavian indie-pop of the '90s (Wannadies, The Cardigans) and modern day peers (Radio Dept, Shout Out Louds) and you have a folk album that isn't really all that folk, swimming through its own dreamy washes of ambition. The drumming on tracks like "Let's Call It Off" and "Paris 2004" is so elementary you might as well add your own, but it keeps the intuitive, simplistic 60's beat melodies trickling steadily onwards. The underlying appeal is that things could snap like an elastic band at any moment, that things are beautifully limited. Less writers block, more loving the detail of your first chapter so much you have no inclination to move on. --James Berry

Album Description

US only edition includes a bonus disc of rarities! 2007.

Customer Reviews:

Young Folks.......2007-07-19

Dreamy and beatnik with a cool throbbing tempo -- the ultimate song to drive your car to. This is a must have for any music library.

A Bjorn Winner!

Unlistenable Garbage.......2007-06-04

This band is bad in a way that's hard to describe. In the indie world, there's no real premium on really good musical chops, so it's not fair to say that they're not really very good musicians -- though they aren't -- their problems are much deeper.

Their songs are poorly formed, weakly presented, and seemingly without motive. It's not even like listening to a high-school band. It's like listening to a rehearsal by a band that hopes to be able to play for a middle school dance, if they can just figure out a cool name.

This is a band with nothing to say that should learn not to say it.

I hvae writer's block.......2007-05-23

Swedish pop group Peter Bjorn and John are apparently trying to confuse us, and for a brief time, it works.

Their third album "Writer's Block" has the misfortune to open on a rather saggy note, but fortunately hoists itself up for a blurry blend of indiepop and northern atmospheric synth. So straggle through the first two tracks, because the indiepop that follows is solid, multilayered and quite excellent.

It opens with a faint, atmospheric little track that sounds like Sigur Ros tuning up. Then suddenly it careens into nonstop guitar pop in "Object of My Affection," with drums pounding right over those steely riffs. "And you still can make sense/if you just show up and present an honest face/instead of that grin," Peter Morén sings happily.

Not only is it a lot simpler than the other songs, but I got a headache from those relentless drums and guitar. At that point I was groaning, anticipating a whole album of the same. But I was wrong.

Things start perking up with the shimmying, sunny indiepop of "Young Folks," which has some enchantingly feathery edges and constant whistling. The other songs have a similar mix of shimmery keyboard and solid indiepop -- thumpy little marches, swirling psychedelic hymns, gentle ballads blooming into driving guitarpop, folksy ballads, and the shimmering prettiness of "The Chills."

For your info, there is no Peter Bjorn -- it's actually "Peter, Bjorn and John," three Swedish guys who play the instruments and all provide vocals. And despite a couple of mediocre songs on "Writer's Block," these guys really know how to make great indiepop -- lots of northern wind and snow, and a delightfully sunny 1970s pop mentality.

There's plenty of ringing, peppy guitar and unstoppable bass from Morén and Björn Yttling, while John Eriksson provides some fast drumming as well. Yttling swaddles almost all the melodies in a hazy edge of soft, colourful synth, and turning some of them into bittersweet, chilly pop. Most of the songs are pretty upbeat, even with a bit of harmonica and whistling to remind us to be cheery.

Much of the album is about sort of ambiguous -- half of it seems to be about breaking up with a lover, and the other half is about how much you adore them. "Your tongue is sharp/but I miss the taste of it/You said time heals/there's not enough of it..." Moren sings in his slightly nasal voice. It's just a few songs after, "Hours seems to disappear/everyone is leaving -- I'm still with you."

"Writer's Block" has a couple tracks that don't quite fit in, but the overall album is a delicious blend of cheery pop melodies and blurry keyboard. Definitely a good listen.

Great new band!.......2007-05-13

If you heard one of their songs on the radio and are debating whether it's worth buying the album......it's worth it. There are 4-5 very good songs on this one. Which isn't a bad ratio these days. Amsterdam, Chills, Young Folks and Paris 2004 among them.

Five Stars because of Amsterdam.......2007-05-13

This album is fantastic. Amsterdam is the best song of the century.

Average customer rating: Fun listening excellent We don't care about the young folks FABULOUS! Not bad

Writer's Block Peter Bjorn & John Manufacturer: Wichita ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Indie Rock | Indie & Lo-Fi | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Swedish Pop | Euro Pop | Pop | Styles | Music Similar Items: Falling Out Yellow House Silent Shout Ys The Good, the Bad & the Queen ASIN: B000FA58IE Release Date: 2006-07-11

Tracks:

1. Writer's Block
2. Objects of My Affection
3. Young Folks
4. Amsterdam
5. Start to Melt
6. Up Against the Wall
7. Paris 2004
8. Let's Call It Off
9. Chills
10. Roll the Credits
11. Poor Cow

Album Details

The Third Album from the Swedish Band which Formed in Stockholm in Late Summer 1999.

Customer Reviews:

Fun listening.......2007-03-09

I absolutely love this CD, loved it the 1st time I listened to it. There are not many CDs that you can listen all the tracks over and over, but this CD is one. Peter Bjorn & John need to be in your library, and need a break over here in the US because they would be an instant hit.

excellent.......2007-01-26

great album by a relatively unknown band. 'young folk' is a unique and instant classic although the whole album is full of gems.

We don't care about the young folks.......2007-01-23

thanks to pitchfork i was aware of this album when it came in late 2006. luckily, i was able to find a inexpensive used import through amazon for like $16.00...which is pretty good since it still is an import. the song "young folks" will want to you to own this album, as the coolness of the video and the song itself seem all at once timeless, yet so very modern and hip. out of all the swedish bands that are coming out now these days, Id say PBJ are my favorite. as for the album itself, it gets better with repeated listens. the weakest songs on here are "Amsterdam", and "Start to Melt", but once you get past those two, the album is actually really great. "Up Against the Wall", and "Let's Call It Off" are great pop, as the song "The Chills" has some really cool lyrics. In terms of how P-fork would review, id really give it a 7.5 out 10.0. my advice: just wait till it comes out in the US and not pay the 23 something dollars here.

FABULOUS! .......2007-01-23

I loved, loved, loved "Writer's BLock" it was fun, quirky and very well put together!! Can't wait to catch them live!

Not bad.......2007-01-18

These guys are okay and this album is pretty good. I wonder why it takes the public so long to pick up on things. These guys have been around for a very long time so it just goes to show that perseverance pays off...all you need is that one "hip" review and you could be on your way. Their earlier releases aren't so hot...think generic, unmemorable power-pop. This is a good starting point.

Average customer rating: A Covers Album Worth Listening To? HELL YEAH!! it's pretty darn good. What's wrong with this album? Nothing Kind of a let down You suck!

Writer's Block Evergreen Terrace Manufacturer: Eulogy Recordings ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Rock | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Similar Items: Burned Alive By Time Sincerity Is an Easy Disguise in This Business At Our Worst Losing All Hope Is Freedom Sirens ASIN: B0001AD57Y Release Date: 2004-02-17

Tracks:

1. Maniac
2. Zero
3. Plowed
4. Stars
5. Knowledge
6. Mad World
7. The Kids Aren't All Right
8. Sunday Bloody Sunday
9. Dying Degree
10. Brave Reality

Customer Reviews:

A Covers Album Worth Listening To? HELL YEAH!!.......2006-08-08

Evergreen terrace has always been one of my favorite bands. They are one of the few in the hardcore/metalcore scene today who have found a way to make the genre their own. And with "Writer's Block," they have created a cover's album worth listening to.
Eevry song covered on here is a winner. They have found interesting ways to create popular songs, especially on U2's "Sunday Bloody Sunday," and Offspring's "The Kid's Aren't Alright". And the hidden track, a meddley of Poison's "Every Rose Has A Thorn" and the Spongbob Square Pants Theme is completely hillarious.

it's pretty darn good........2006-04-15

Evergreen Terrace found such a creative way to cover some great songs. I think this album is amazing. If you truly love hardcore you will enjoy the music that has been recreated. Wether it's a depeche mode cover, or a U2 cover. But, do not take this album seriously as to their musical abilities. This was just a quick release for fans to eat up while they worked on their new album....

What's wrong with this album? Nothing.......2005-07-15

Nothing beats their cover of sunday bloody sunday", it's just plain amazing. anybody that disses this album doesn't know what great hardcore is.

Kind of a let down.......2005-07-05

I love Evergreen Terrace with all of my HXC heart, but this album wasnt as good as i wanted it to be. ET is one of my favorite bands of all time, but i like their originals alot better than their covers. However dont be discouraged from buying it if you are really having an ET craving. A couple of the covers are really good. Maybe im just hating on it because im not a big fan of the originals. Anyway, go pick up 'Burned Alive by Time' if you havent, and if you have, maybe check out these covers on the album:

"Zero"
"Mad World" (My Favorite)
"Maniac"
"Brave Reality"
"The Kids arent alright"

You suck!.......2005-06-13

Some of these song were good before ET put their no-talent hands all over them. Anyone who is pretending to like this should come to terms with how unbelievabley terrible it is. This band should stick to ruining their own songs.
The one star is for actually making the offspring sound better by comparison. Way to go.

Average customer rating: Jr's back GrandBull Da King GrandBull Da King wow.... hard to imagine Get Down With The SET (Dayton, OH stand up)

Jr Writer: Writer's Block 4 Dukedagod Manufacturer: Diplomatic Man ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD East Coast | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music Gangsta & Hardcore | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music General | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music Pop Rap | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music $9.99 and Under | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Rap & Hip-Hop | 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: Vol. 2-Philadelphia Beast More Than Music, Vol. 2 New Gun In Town Time Is Money The Professional, Pt. 3 ASIN: B000M5B6PQ Release Date: 2007-02-13

Tracks:

1. Live From The Kitchen
2. Critically Acclaimed
3. I'm A Hustler
4. You Don't Know Me
5. Get Em
6. Switch It Up
7. Skit
8. What Set You Claim
9. Over Drive
10. Back In The Lab
11. In My Zone - Hell Rell
12. Cover Shot
13. Freestyle
14. K*ll Em Everytime
15. I Gotta Make It

Customer Reviews:

Jr's back.......2007-03-13

He's been doin' this since writer's block part 1, and it's still good. Cop this, it's a good album...

GrandBull Da King.......2007-02-16

Ayo Dis Album Iz Retarded. JR Aight But Wait Till Ya Boy GrandB get into The Game I'm Da Greatest Ya DIIIG!!! Shout Out To Da Double O Dayton, Cleveland,Cin -City, Da Cap And To My Hometown Mansfield. Watch Out We Comin Out Strong. Holla at Ya Boy's Girlfriend, A.

GrandBull Da King.......2007-02-16

Ayo Dis Album Iz Retarded. JR Aight But Wait Till Ya Boy GrandB get into The Game I'm Da Greatest Ya DIIIG!!! Shout Out To Da Double O Dayton, Cleveland,Cin -City, Da Cap And To My Hometown Mansfield. Watch Out We Comin Out Strong. Holla at Ya Boy's Girlfriend, A.

wow.... hard to imagine.......2007-02-16

I always liked JR, but this is CRAZY. Pretty much every song is HOT. You can listen to the whole thing straight through and stay waiting for what he's going to say next. He's just that damn clever. Excellent! One of the best Dipset products ever.

Get Down With The SET (Dayton, OH stand up).......2007-02-14

JR Writer has the streets in a chokehold, bottom line. Much love from DAYTON, YOUNGSTOWN, Cleveland, Cincinnati.

Average customer rating:

Writer's Block Peter Bjorn and John Manufacturer: V2 Japan ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Indie Rock | Indie & Lo-Fi | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Sweden | Scandinavia | Europe | International | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Swedish Pop | Euro Pop | Pop | Styles | Music ASIN: B000JLQOXC Release Date: 2006-12-25

Tracks:

1. Writer's Block
2. Objects Of My Affection
3. Young Folks
4. Amsterdam
5. Start To Melt
6. Up Against The Wal
7. Paris 2004
8. Let's Call It Off
9. Chills
10. Roll The Credits
11. Poor Cow
12. Young Folks (Beyond The Wizards Sleeve Re-Animation) (Bonus Track)
13. Young Folks (Tomas Anderson Remake) (Bonus Track)
14. Young Folks (Team Skidoo Remix) (Bonus Track)
15. Young Folks (Punks Jump Up-Special Disco Mix) (Bonus Track)
16. Young Folks (Video)

Album Description

Japanese pressing adds 5 bonus tracks - Young Folks (Beyond The Wizards Sleeve Re-Animation), Young Folks (Tomas Anderson Remake), Young Folks (Team Skidoo Remix), Young Folks (Punks Jump-Up - Special Disco Mix) & Young Folks (Video). V2. 2006.

Album Details

Japanese Version of the Album by the Swedish Trio Comes with the Bonus Tracks 'young Folks(Beyond the Wizards Sleeve Re-animation)', 'young Folks(Tomas Anderson Remake)', 'young Folks(Team Skidoo Remix)', and 'young Folks(Punks Jump-up Special Disco Mix)', plus a Video Clip of 'young Folks'.

Average customer rating: It's Only A Single

Writer's Block, Pt. 1 Just Jack Manufacturer: Universal/Mercury ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music General | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music Pop Rap | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music Dance & DJ | Imports | Stores | Music 4-for-3 Alternative Rock | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 Rap & Hip-Hop | 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: The Outer Marker Overtones ASIN: B000ION1GI Release Date: 2006-10-10

Tracks:

1. Writer's Block
2. Like They Say

Album Details

Just Jack: A Musical Maverick, Talented DJ and Sparkling Wordsmith, this North London Native is One of the UK'S Most Strikingly Original Artists. This is his First Fantastic, Hook-laden Single Taken from his Early 2007 LP "Overtones". This Infectious Track was Written by Just Jack (Aka Jack Allsopp), a Man Neither Bound by Musical Restrictions Nor the Notional Idea of Cool, He's Taken the Sum of his Individual Influences and Turned them Into a Unique, Genre-hopping Sound…the Sound of Just Jack. "is it Wrong to Call What I Do Interesting Pop?" He Says. Nope, Jack. It Sounds Just About Right. Backed with the Song "Like They Say".

Customer Reviews:

It's Only A Single.......2006-12-13

It's only a single for an album I would assume is coming out in the future. By comparisson to Just Jack's full length album you can see that he has progressed musically while still retaining his funky hip-hop like roots. I like where this new album could possibly be going given this two track sampling. If you liked the Outer Marker enough and you can't wait for a new full length album then pick this up because it's pretty good, but it does leave you a little unfulfilled.

Writer's Block- 8/10
Like They Say- 6/10

Average customer rating: Still in the rotation after a year of listening... GOGO Finest Producer One of hip hop's best in 2002

Writer's Block: Movie Capital D & The Molemen Manufacturer: All Natural Inc ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music Experimental Rap | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music Pop Rap | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music General | Rap & Hip-Hop | Indie Music | Stores | Music Experimental | Rap & Hip-Hop | Indie Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: S.O.N.O.G.R.A.M. Donuts Spirit of 94 Version 9.0 Live The Good, the Bad & the Queen ASIN: B00006BCPH Release Date: 2002-08-20

Tracks:

1. Writer's Block Pt.II
2. Young Girl Lost
3. Paper Chase
4. Midnight
5. Mrs. Manley
6. Du'a (The Deen's List)
7. Crossfire
8. Currency Exchange
9. Final Judgment
10. Cause & Effect
11. Du'a (Stevie Wonder)
12. Mass Transit
13. Bonus Track 1
14. Bonus Track 2

Customer Reviews:

Still in the rotation after a year of listening..........2007-06-04

Truly one of the greatest hip-hop concept albums ever, the structure and form of the work as a whole is complicated and fascinating from a writer's point of view. Capital D not only tells stories of the streets didactically, he weaves different facets of the recurring characters into the lyrics in such a way that each person's story is enriched by what the others bring to it. He is truly a writer's writer and an inspiration.
The beats are spare and accessible, perfectly blending with the timeless feel of the lyrics. This is not music you'll hear bumping in a club, however Mos Def gives it a nod (by nicking the beat complete with breaking glass from Judgment Day) on Napoleon Dynamite from his latest, True Magic, proving this album inspires and has relevance five years later. No matter how many times I listen to it, I find something new - it's like reading one of Borges' short stories - with a fresh and deeper understanding every time. Perfect.

GOGO Finest Producer.......2004-04-01

I'm surprised only 2 reviews have been submitted for this very solid album. capital D is one of those rare rappers that also produce most of their own tracks. I've always felt he was the new school Diamond D for the previous reason but also cause they both mostly rap bout social issues. I got all the Molemen & All Natural releases and I must say this is one of my favourite.

One of hip hop's best in 2002.......2002-11-10

Writer's Block is a tribute to the art of storytelling in hip hop. This is not to place emphasis on whether the actual stories told are fabricated or not (a strange trend in hiphop). It's more a return to hip hop's roots... the streets.

All the elements of a hip hop story are there. The neighborhood block. The violence, drugs, racism and poverty that surrounds the block. The characters who have to overcome these obstacles just to sustain the hope of living a normal life. Some take the quick route of crime and sex while others wisely choose to travel the safer, morally-guided path. It's the life-lessons contained within these opposing perspectives that fascinate the average hiphop listener.

Capital D is a master storyteller. His tales of Chicago city life hold your attention from start to finish. "Crossfire" and "Currency Exchange" seem like your typical crime stories. The former focuses on youth violence and its absolute senselessness. The latter a tale about corrupt cops interestingly told using a basketball anology. Not all the songs are crime-driven, though. "Young Girl Lost" centers around a female subject with big dreams of leaving the block but is unaware of any legitimate means to meet that end. "Mrs. Manley," the standout track, is an emotional tribute to that rare and special supportive figure. The beat is nicely laced with a simple but dramatic piano loop.

The Molemen, the team behind the boards, create a nice nostalic feel using distorted samples and 90s eastcoast-beats. This album wouldn't feel out of place if it were released 10 years ago or 10 years from now. It really has that classic feel.

Don't sleep on one of the better hip hop offerings of 2002.

Peace,
carterfactor

Average customer rating:

Writer's Block Peter Bjorn and John Manufacturer: Coop ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Indie Rock | Indie & Lo-Fi | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Sweden | Scandinavia | Europe | International | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Swedish Pop | Euro Pop | Pop | Styles | Music ASIN: B000O5B5LO Release Date: 2007-04-30

Tracks:

1. Writer's Block
2. Objects of My Affection
3. Young Folks
4. Amsterdam
5. Start to Melt
6. Up Against the Wall
7. Paris 2006
8. Let's Call It Off
9. Chills
10. Roll the Credits
11. Poor Cow
12. Ancient Curse [*]
13. Self Pity [*]
14. Sitar Folks [*]

Album Description

Limited new edition with three exclusive tracks - ''Self Pity'', ''Ancient Curse'' & ''Sitar Folks''. Coop Music. 2007.

Album Details

Limited Edition with Three Exclusive Tracks "Self Pity", "Ancient Curse" and "Sitar Folks".

Average customer rating: Like Buying a new car Audio Food For The Ear The Brain (and a big Time Saver Too)! Eclectic Entertainment original, inovative, enjoyable.

Writers' Block Party: Audio Magazine Issue One Various Artists Manufacturer: Waterdog Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music ASIN: B000060OHQ Release Date: 2002-02-19

Tracks:

1. Writer's Block Party Theme Song - Writers' Block Party: An Audio Magazine, Issue One
2. Forgetfulness - Billy Collins
3. Your Shattered World - Jonny Polonsky
4. Things That Are Confusing - Patricia Marx
5. Another New York Afternoon - Christine Lavin
6. Still Life With Joseph Brodsky And Flower - Amy Krouse Rosenthal
7. Twinkle Fish - Liz Foster
8. Title - Greg Allen
9. Sundust - Sandmouth
10. Good Mechanic - Starball
11. Wheel Of Fortune - Wendy Miller
12. In The Future - Michael Gerber
13. From The Ashes Like The Phoenix - Cynthia Kaplan
14. Spiller's Challenger - Shades Of Al Davis
15. You Want A Social Life, With Friends - Kenneth Koch
16. On A Redwood, A Georgic - Michael Rosen
17. Salamander Green - Ralph Covert
18. If You Had Ketchup Packets In Your Glove Box - Lane Foard
19. Say Goodbye If You Die - The Good
20. Bonus Track - Writers' Block Party: An Audio Magazine, Issue One
21. Unknown - Writers' Block Party: An Audio Magazine, Issue One
22. Bonus Track - Writers' Block Party: An Audio Magazine, Issue One

Album Description

If you were to take a CD and marinate it overnight in a magazine and a radio show, and then add a dash of those cool mix tapes you made in college, you'd have WRITERS' BLOCK PARTY: AN AUDIO MAGAZINE.

A totally new entertainment genre, it's the "magazine you can enjoy while driving." This Premier Issue flaunts 18 top writers, humorists, poets, playwrights, musicians and bands from coast to coast. WRITERS' BLOCK PARTY was also featured in USA Today and on NPR's "All Things Considered.

Contributors on the 19 tracks range from U.S. Poet Laureate Billy Collins to singer Christine Lavin to alternative Canadian rockers Sandmouth. Also: humorist Patricia Marx, musician Ralph Covert, Greg Allen of the Neo Futurist Theater Company, and singer/songwriter Jonny Polonsky.

Customer Reviews:

Like Buying a new car.......2002-05-17

Listening to Writers Block Party is like buying a new car. You have to open each nook and cranny to see whats there. Each track is different and I found myself wondering what would come next. Issue 1 is terrific - I can't wait for Issue 2.

Audio Food For The Ear The Brain (and a big Time Saver Too)!.......2002-05-17

My Writer's Block Party CD is a highly portable digital smorgasbord for the ears and the mind with just the right mix of of new music,spoken word and comedy.

The producers have collected and put in one convenient place what I could have never discovered on my own even after spending hours listening to several different kinds of radio station formats and reading piles of newspapers, periodicals and literary magazines...and then ignoring all the stuff I wasn't interested in.

I have listened to it at home, in my car, on a plane, at the gym and at work. It's a wonderful audio magazine full of surprises and delights and I can't wait for future releases!

Eclectic Entertainment.......2002-04-26

Tired of the same old, same old? Looking for something new in the way of electronic entertainment? Well, look no further than "Writers' Block Party." It's an eclectic mix of humor, song and spoken word. From the haunting lyrics of Jonny Polonsky to the wit of Billy Collins and Patricia Marx, you'll want to "read" this audio magazine again and again.

original, inovative, enjoyable........2002-04-26

I really enjoyed listening to the CD, which is a totally new genre on the musical/literary scene. It compiles very different artists and pieces (poems, monologues, playwrights, songs...) and made me discover very talented people. My favorites are probably the poem "Forgetfulness" by acclaimed poet Billy Collins, and the song "Say goodbye if you die" by The Goods, very humorous lyrics on a funky tune. The producer/editor did a great job putting all those artists together for us to discover, and even the booklet is like a mini-magazine to read. Writers'Block Party definitely deserves to be called an Audio Magazine, I hope you will enjoy it too and I'm looking forward to listening to Issue Two.

Christian Music:

1. 17 Year Itch
2. A Wonderful Dream
3. Abi Cruz
4. Absolute Britney [Import]
5. All Is Calm, All Is Bright
6. Ally Mcbeal Christmas [Soundtrack]
7. Amateur Shortwave Radio
8. Antiteater's Greatest Hits
9. At Chateau Dunbar
10. Burnin' Up

Christian Music

christian music

Christian Music

Dr. Who: Music From the Tenth Planet [Soundtrack] [Import]

With Fritz Kreisler

Yes

Stranger to Someone

Una Notte Especiale San Remo 20 [Import]

Unforgettable Love Songs

Villa Lobos Ciranda E Cirandinhas [Import]

World Ultimate

Zimbabwe Frontline

Trombone & Orchestra

Uptown Groove

Unrivaled

Whatcha Got a Gun For

Beethoven: Piano Sonata No. 12 & No. 4; Debussy: Hommage à Rameau; Ravel: Gaspard de la Nuit

Something Borrowed Something Blue