Back to Front [Extra tracks] [Import]

Amazon.com
Lionel Richie's Back to Front isn't just a definitive greatest hits collection, it's a reminder of Richie's supreme strengths as an R&B singer-songwriter. From the gentle sweep of "Do It to Me" to the earnest lovelorn crooning of "Hello," Richie's ballads are timeless. Even the borderline sappy "Endless Love" shines despite cosinger Diana Ross's histrionics. Also featured is "Still" and "Say You, Say Me," and while the faster songs--the Caribbean-inspired rhythms of "All Night Long" and the '80s synthpop of "Running with the Night"--are weaker, they hardly detract from this otherwise sterling survey. --Courtney Kemp

Back to Front,Lionel Richie,Polygram Int'l,Pop,R&B,Soul/R & B

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Average customer rating: Decidedly Dorian the afternoon starts sunny, then gets dark It's not jazz; but it's really good One of Best Jazz Singers You Never Heard Of A Concept Album with Emotional Impact

Love Is Blue Jackie Allen Manufacturer: A440 Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Bebop General | Bebop | Jazz | Styles | Music General | Jazz | Styles | Music Vocal Jazz General | Vocal Jazz | Jazz | Styles | Music Traditional Vocal Pop | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music General | Vocal Pop | Pop | Styles | Music Similar Items: The Men in My Life Tangled Yours Nightcap The Very Thought of You ASIN: B00025ET82 Release Date: 2004-06-08

Tracks:

1. Lazy Afternoon
2. Go
3. The Performer
4. Love Is Blue
5. Moon of Deception
6. Pavement Cracks
7. Here Today
8. Turnin' Round
9. Taste of Honey
10. You Become my Song
11. I'll Be Around

Customer Reviews:

Decidedly Dorian.......2005-10-23

Jackie Allen's is one of the most distinctive, inimitable voices on the scene today, as musicianly and versatile as it is intimate and sexy. If a program and instrumentation such as this wins her the larger audience she richly deserves, I'm all for it.

As for the program, it's of a decidedly monochromatic blue hue--owing much to the influence of Joni Mitchell, Melissa Manchester, Tori Amos, Carly Simon, and singers in that eclectic area outside of the "Great American Songbook." Nothing necessarily wrong with that. Sinatra could put out albums made up exclusively of "suicide songs" ("Only the Lonely," "In the Wee Small Hours," "No One Cares," "September of My Years") and transform them into breathtaking elegy. But he was also served by the ingenious harmonic ambivalence of Cole Porter and Harold Arlen, the lyric poetry of Lorenz Hart and John Mercer, the orchestral expressiveness of Nelson Riddle and Gordon Jenkins. Consequently, the mood did not begin to wear on me as I confess it does on the present collection, where modality replaces shifting harmonies and recitative supplants verse.

In all fairness, Jackie does include a couple of genuine standards ("Lazy Afternoon" and "I'll Be Around") and a couple that probably don't deserve to be ("Love Is Blue" and "Taste of Honey"). But the arrangements, orchestrations, and approach tend to minimize differences, contrasts and tensions in the material.

There's a jazz sensibility about her approach to all of the songs, as rightly recognized by those reviewers familiar with her previous work. But perhaps in the interest of catching the attention of new and younger ears, it's best not to tell.

the afternoon starts sunny, then gets dark.......2004-09-09

The afternoon starts sunny, then gets dark.

Now here is a Pop Jazz Vocal that draws me in. Sensual. Sexy. I think it's Jazz! Now why did she say that?

Really a concept album, but it's hard to say what the concept is - relationships gone wrong? Love the first track, about love in the afternoon, it's warm and sunny like brandy. The mood seems to get darker throughout. "Moon of Deception" is moody, By "Turnin Round" she sounds obsessive, almost like Patricia Barber. A slowed down "Taste of Honey", miles from the Beatles. Ends with a torchy rendition of the ultimate torch song, "I'll be Around".

For the life of me I can't understand why this album isn't more popular. I guess people haven't heard it and it doesn't get airplay. So it's a vicious circle.

Contrary to what's said below, this CD is a much more energy, more involving and captivating album than Diana Krall's listless "Girl in the Other Room". In fact, it has everything DK's new album is missing. Slowed, without dropping off. Has a lot more heart!

4 1/2 to 5 stars performance, on my tough grading system. well recorded. Would get 5 stars, if it were more popular. One of the best of the year. It grows on you. A find! See my recommended list!

It's not jazz; but it's really good.......2004-08-12

Sometimes the line between jazz and progressive rock is really thin. Consider, for example, Ginger Baker's album, ca. 1994, with Bill Frisell and Charlie Haden ("Goin' Back Home"): jazz or rock? Or consider Joni Mitchell's "Night Ride Home" and "Turbulent Indigo" albums from the early '90's: jazz or rock?

This album straddles the same thin line. But I'm no purist: I really like the Ginger Baker and Joni Mitchell albums; and I really like this one, too.

Jackie Allen is a singer who usually sounds like Sheryl Crow, but when in her upper register, sounds purer than that. Her performance is enhanced by her band, a group of superb musicians. In "Men in My Life", John Moulder (g), Hans Sturm (b) and Dane Richeson (per) proved themselves to be very proficient jazz musicians. Here, they prove themselves to be very proficient rock musicians. Let's just say they are very proficient.

And whereas the pianist in "Men" was the wonderful Ben Lewis, here the pianist is the wonderful Laurence Hobgood, ordinarily Kurt Elling's accompanist. He provides the highlight of the album, an arrangement of the title track complete with his wispy solo. The original popular version was that soupy thing done by the Paul Mariat Orchestra, ca. 1968. This version is so dark that it takes awhile to figure out the song; but the darkness fits the words to a tee. To say the least, it is a vast improvement over the popular original.

Other highlights: a similar treatment of "A Taste of Honey", which is likewise a quantum improvement over the familiar version done in the '60's by Herb Alpert & the Tijuana Brass; Hans Sturm's "Turnin' Round," a Wallace Stephens type of poem with variations on the word and syllable "turn" in just about every imaginable concept to a heavy bass backbeat in A minor; the one jazz standard, Alec Wilder's wonderful "I'll Be Around," complete with some very tasteful guitar licks from Moulder; and a terrific original, Jackie Allen's "Moon of Deception." The more I listen to this album, the more I may be convinced that this is actually its highlight: it ought to be a "standard in the making."

Truthfully, this whole album initially hit me at 4 and 1/2. But I like it the more I hear it; and until Ms. Allen becomes better known, I'll upgrade her to 5. If you liked Diana Krall's recent "The Girl in the Other Room", you'll probably like this album even more, given the similarities between the two. One thing I guarantee you: if you play this c.d. for someone who has never heard it and never heard of Jackie Allen, they'll never guess it in a million years. RC

One of Best Jazz Singers You Never Heard Of.......2004-06-28

As a Jazz DJ on community radio constantly searching to avoid the too familiar, I have my finger on the pulse of female jazz singers throughout the United States, and the current crop, most of whom are unknown to the general public, is really outstanding. I mean real jazz singers, not Nora Jones. Jackie Allen is awfully close to the top of the list. This latest album only reaffirms the emotional depth, style, inventiveness, and sophistication of this marvelous artist who, after many years honing her craft in the mid-west, is beginnng to get a little of the recognition she deserves. Highly recommended.

A Concept Album with Emotional Impact.......2004-06-26

It's been so long since I've heard a "concept album" of the kind the (...) used to produce that LOVE IS BLUE caught me completely off guard. After her success with THE MEN IN MY LIFE, which featured fresh interpretations of some very well known pop tunes, the song selections on Allen's new CD: a couple of '60s instrumentals, a new Annie Lennox song, the chestnut "I'll Be Around" and originals by Allen and members of her ensemble struck me as eccentric. But anyone who has heard Jackie Allen perform live can attest to the way she commands a room with a Largo tempo and a meditative lyric. The combination of emotional vulnerability, instinctive musicality and the sheer beauty of her voice is a potent combination. Producer Rob Mathes, who has worked with Tony Bennett, Natalie Cole, Sade, and a host of other pop performers has capitalized on that strength for a first person narrative of a doomed love affair told from the perspective of the woman left behind. The romance that begins with the temptations of a "Lazy Afternoon" and ends with the stiff-upper-lip farewell of "I'll Be Around" is so compelling because its protagonist is seductive ("You Become My Song"), sensual ("Taste of Honey"), independent ("Go"), optimistic ("Here Today"), playful ("The Performer", "Turnin' Round"), self-aware ("Pavement Cracks", "Love is Blue"), and incurably romantic ("Moon of Deception"). Give yourself the time to listen to this CD from start to finish and, far from blue, you will be exhilarated by its emotional impact.

Average customer rating: Quirky, odd, against the grain - the BEST. Excellent !

Back to Front Gilbert O'Sullivan Manufacturer: Jvc Japan ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music General | Pop | Styles | Music Singer-Songwriters | Pop | Styles | Music Soft Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music General | Oldies | Pop | Styles | Music Compilations | Pop | Styles | Music | Dance Pop | Easy Listening | General | Oldies | Traditional Vocalists General | Vocal Pop | Pop | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music General | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music Broadway & Vocalists | Imports | Stores | Music Rock | Imports | Stores | Music Pop | Imports | Stores | Music Similar Items: Gilbert O'Sullivan: Himself The Berry Vest Of Piano Foreplay Alone Again ASIN: B000006ZPW Release Date: 2001-07-04

Tracks:

1. Intro/ I Hope You'll Stay
2. In My Hole
3. Clair
4. That's Love
5. Can I Go With You
6. But I'm Not/Outtro
7. I'm in Love With You
8. Who Was It
9. What Could Be Nicer (Mum the Kettle's Boiling)
10. Out of the Question
11. Golden Rule
12. I'm Leaving/ Outro

Album Details

Digitally remastered Japanese re-issue.

Customer Reviews:

Quirky, odd, against the grain - the BEST........2003-10-21

I remember listening to this album on vinyl back in 1978 or '79. It still has an effect on me I can't explain. The quirkiness of each track actually helps when listening. From the opening piano notes of "Intro/I hope You'll Stay," Gilbert has you hooked. This album is a like a bookshelf, and the beginning and ending songs themselves bookends. Sure the song "Clair" is on it, and a lot of people might just know that one song, but it is sandwiched around some the most inventive tunes put on wax since - dare I say it? - one of the greatest 60's albums EVER, the Turtles' "Battle Of The Bands" (PLEASE do yourself a favor - pick that gem up, you'll thank me for it). The rest of the album has that great Nilsson-sounding "hey, here's another song for you that I just wrote over coffee", that odd songwriting style that doesn't seem geared to the mainstream audience, even if it was at one time. My favorite track is the sing-song (and sing-along) title "Golden Rule," and I guarantee you, this CD may be pricey, but this one track will sell you in a second. It makes almost no sense at all, but forces you to listen to it over and over. This album also makes me wonder that if John Lennon HAD stayed focused in the 70s, this would be the way his albums might have turned out. This is a great classic album written by a fantastic songwriter and performer, and he is totally underrated as a influence to 70's music. He needs to get a real world tribute going somewhere, not just in Japan and in Germany, the only two places he seems to be popular enough to have his albums re-mastered and re-released. Thans for reading, hope it helps!

Excellent !.......2003-03-16

I got this CD when I was fourtheen and felt in love with it. I am now twenty five and I am still sleeping with it !

Average customer rating: Great CD Truly Picks Up Some of the Greatest 70s and 80s Love Songs one of R&B's best lionel

Back to Front Lionel Richie Manufacturer: Motown ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Contemporary Blues | Blues | Styles | Music General | Pop | Styles | Music Soft Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Contemporary | Vocal Pop | Pop | Styles | Music General | Adult Contemporary | Pop | Styles | Music General | R&B | Styles | Music General | Soul | R&B | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Similar Items: Just For You Louder Than Words Renaissance Time Can't Slow Down ASIN: B000001AKM Release Date: 1992-05-05

Tracks:

1. Do It To Me
2. My Destiny
3. Love, Oh Love
4. All Night Long
5. Easy
6. Still
7. Endless Love
8. Running With The Night
9. Sail On
10. Hello
11. Truly
12. Penny Lover
13. Say You, Say Me
14. Three Times A Lady

Amazon.com

Lionel Richie's Back to Front isn't just a definitive greatest hits collection, it's a reminder of Richie's supreme strengths as an R&B singer-songwriter. From the gentle sweep of "Do It to Me" to the earnest lovelorn crooning of "Hello," Richie's ballads are timeless. Even the borderline sappy "Endless Love" shines despite cosinger Diana Ross's histrionics. Also featured is "Still" and "Say You, Say Me," and while the faster songs--the Caribbean-inspired rhythms of "All Night Long" and the '80s synthpop of "Running with the Night"--are weaker, they hardly detract from this otherwise sterling survey. --Courtney Kemp

Customer Reviews:

Great CD.......2007-01-24

I think this is one of the best offerings by the great songster. Lionel is one of the greatest singers of all time. You Are My Destiny is on this CD. If you want to purchase a CD, and love Lionel --- This is the one to get.

Truly.......2006-05-12

There are often times where a decent artist can make or break the best reflection of their career with a greatest hits record. While it is often desired as well as it could be, it is often declared as a miss. That has been the case with so many artists like Whitney Houston, Melissa Etheridge, and the late Luther Vandross. They've had a very wonderful reflection of music, but it wasn't that way with their greatest hits records. For Lionel Richie, he has been another example. His era of his solo works, and his success with The Commodores in the 60's and 70's, is arguably some of the most elequent works ever in the history of the Motown era, and his first greatest hits is a mixed reflection of good works.

Back To Front, Lionel Richie's 1992 greatest hits record, tries to do a good job at reflecting Lionel's solo works with his efforts with The Commodores in a convient package of music. The collection does have a lot of great songs that still remain defiant towards Lionel, and what has made him one of the most elequent singer/songwriters ever. The collection includes a lot of great songs from his career including Endless Love with Diana Ross, the Oscar-winning Say You Say Me from White Nights, All Night Long, Easy, and the tender ballad Hello. Although the album does include some great songs, there arguably could've been more added on that was overlooked from not just Lionel's solo works, but also The Commodores as well. The collection overlooks tracks like Love Will Conquer All, the soft and soulful Stuck On You, and Commodores tracks like Lady (You Bring Me Up), and Brick House.

All in all, Back To Front fairs well as a good hits collection reflecting Lionel Richie's career, but there just could've been a whole lot more to have been desired that should've been shown. I absolutely suggest you purchase the 2003 Lionel Richie Definitive Collection instead. It is a much better greatest hits record than this one.

Album Cover: B 1/2-

Songs: B-

Price: B-

Remastering: C+

Overall: C 1/2+

Picks Up Some of the Greatest 70s and 80s Love Songs.......2005-12-31

Lionel Richie reminds me of the boss at my first part time job workplace who had the exactly the same hairstyle and had similar face. Lionel Richie is a perfect student of Motown school and created some of the finest love songs of the 70s and 80s either during Commodores days and his solo works such as LIONEL RICHIE (1981) CAN'T SLOW DOWN (1983) and DANCING ON THE CEILING (1986). Also he contributed a lot to make ADULT CONTEMPORARY household words for ordinary music fans.

It is true that this compilation has some flaws seen from seasoned fans because it misses a lot of great songs that should have been here such as YOU ARE from LIONEL RICHIE or BALLERINA GIRL from DANCING ON THE CEILING. Yet for music fans that are new to him this compilation is an excellent guide to know his music.

EASY, THREE TIMES A LADY, STILL, SAIL ON comes from Commodores all of them are some of my all time favorites. ALL NIGHT LONG is a fun reggae-like pop song and one of my all-time 80s hits. RUNNING WITH THE NIGHT and DANCING ON THE CEILING are the power pop track with excellent guitar solo. HELLO, STUCK ON YOU, PENNY LOVER are the love ballads so unforgettable. ENDLESS LOVE duet with DIANA ROSS is the theme title for the film. Newer tracks are of lesser degree than all time favorite hits but enjoyable. DO IT TO ME might be for someone else to sing, say , LUTHER VANDROSS? MY DESTINY could have been CAN'T SLOW DOWN track.
MY OH MY seems to find a place in WE ARE THE WORLD soundtrack.

Verdict: All Time Favorite Compilation though missing some great songs.
Rating: 94 out of 100
Recommended for: Wide range of music fans who are new to Lionel Richie.

one of R&B's best.......2005-09-06

Rewind 8 years: On my way to high school and BACK TO FRONT is playing on my mom car's stereo...Fast forward to present: and BACK TO FRONT is STILL playing, only this time on MY own CD player.

This album is a definite classic!!! "Back to Front" only gets better each time you listen to it and will have you singing along in no time. Richie's lyrics are plain, simple and sincere; the kind men write to their partners and pass off as their own. His voice too is absolutely phenomenal. This is one of the few albums you listen through without skipping a single track.

Listen out for top songs like "My Destiny"(my personal favourite).

From the first time that I saw you
I knew it was forever
This mighty love between us
Will keep us together
You're the girl God sent from heaven
I'm so glad I found you, Forever............Its lyrics tug at every last string....lovely lovELY, LOVELY!!

Other personal favourites include:
-"Stuck on you" - Doesn't seem to be on this version but it's definitely one of the better tracks.
-"Do it to me one more time"
-"Three times a lady"
-"Running with the night"
I definitely 101% recommend this album to all classic R&B lovers out there. Perfect for a lie-in with that special person..

lionel.......2005-07-27

A superb lyricist, lionel's touching lyrics and superbly delivered vocals touch me every time. This cd is one to buy and leave on repeat all night long...

Average customer rating: Ambitious - and mostly successful...

Pepper Front To Back Les Fradkin Manufacturer: RRO Entertainment ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Psychedelic Rock | Classic Rock | Styles | Music Similar Items: While My Guitar Only Plays lisa lauren loves the beatles One Wing Memory Almost Full [Deluxe Limited Edition] ASIN: B000OYCOQK Release Date: 2007-03-30

Tracks:

1. Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band
2. With A Little Help From My Friends
3. Lucy In The Sky With Diamonds
4. Getting Better
5. Fixing A Hole
6. She's Leaving Home
7. Being For The Benefit Of Mr. Kite
8. Within You, Without You
9. When I'm Sixty-Four
10. Lovely Rita
11. Good Morning, Good Morning
12. Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band (Reprise)
13. A Day In The Life
14. All You Need Is Love (Bonus Track)
15. Let's Try That Again (Special Hidden Track)

Product Description

Welcome to the 40th Anniversary of the Summer of Love. And what better way to celebrate than a new way of hearing The Beatles' Psychedelic Masterpiece: "Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band." Les Fradkin has a brand new CD- "Pepper Front To Back." 14 Guitar Instrumentals. The entire Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band album PLUS "All You Need Is Love" PLUS a special hidden track. All in time for the 40th Anniversary of The Summer Of Love and the 30th Anniversary of the opening of Beatlemania on Broadway. What's different here? A new sound for the guitar, courtesy of Les' VG-8 V-Guitar System and heavily modified Fender "Rocky" Stratocaster. The Beatles, George Martin and Giles Martin started a mash up of Beatles tracks for The Cirque du Soleil and Love albums. Les takes things one step further with a virtual mash-up of guitar technology resulting in guitar sounds never heard before and sonic possibilities only dreamed of till now. Imagine if Jeff Beck, Jimi Hendrix, Brian May, Steve Vai and Joe Satriani meet The Beatles and you enter a new sonic landscape for this landmark set of songs- the perfect follow up to Les' 2005 landmark CD- "While My Guitar Only Plays." Stirring guitar instrumental renditions of all your favorite Sgt. Pepper hits, featruing Les' famous lead guitar stylings. In addition, you get the bonus track- "All You Need Is Love" and a special secret HIDDEN track.

Customer Reviews:

Ambitious - and mostly successful..........2007-05-18

It's quite ambitious to attempt to release a cover version of an entire album, especially the "Sgt. Pepper" album. Les Fradkin, who holds the distinction of being the first "George Harrison" in Broadway's "Beatlemania", seems to be up to the challenge.
There's no question about his guitar prowess, he certainly does justice to the Beatles' originals. However, by performing them all as instrumentals, though they are still recognizable, something does get a little lost. A song like "Lovely Rita" without words is unfortunately little more than a collection of notes. Doubly so for verbal-oriented songs like "Within You Without You" and "Being for the Benefit of Mr. Kite".
Les also released an excellent tribute album to George Harrison called "Something For George", which did feature vocals, and that's what makes me think that more could have been accomplished here.
I also question the arrangement of "When I'm 64" with what sounds like a reggae or tropical beat, and the arrangement of "With a Little Help From My Friends", which seems to be based on the Joe Cocker cover version more than the original. Other than that, it's a rockin' little record with all the energy of the original "Sgt. Pepper" - just none of the words.

Average customer rating: Moravian songs, via Janacek, Godar, Bittova and Skampa Skampa Quartet is great - the singer... yikes

Janácek: Moravian Folk Poetry in Songs Leos Janacek , Iva Bittová , ¿kampa Quartet , Vladimír Godár , and Skampa Quartet Manufacturer: Supraphon ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Janácek, Leos | ( J ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General Modern | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Folk | Styles | Music General | International | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Folk Songs | Songs & Lieder | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General | Vocal Pop | Pop | Styles | Music Adult Alternative | Pop | Styles | Music Experimental Music | Miscellaneous | Styles | Music Similar Items: Elida Cikory Peter Lieberson: Neruda Songs ASIN: B00061X9YC Release Date: 2005-03-01

Tracks:

1. Tuzba (Desire)
2. Stst'/Steadiness
3. Lavecka (Bench)
4. Stesk (Woe) - Skampa Quartet
5. Obrk Mileho (Lover's Likeness)
6. Svatba Kom (Gnats Wedding)
7. Kouzlo (Charm)
8. Slib (Promise)
9. Orisek Lovy (Hazel Nut) - Skampa Quartet
10. La (Love)
11. Jablunka (Apple Tree)
12. Jabucko (Sweet Apple)
13. Co Je to Za Nebe (What Sky)
14. Safva C (Alderman's Daughter)
15. Cervenab(Little Red Apples)
16. Dobr(Good Hunt)
17. He Warden)
18. Kony Mil [My Lover's Horses]
19. Kv MilodejnLove Herbs)
20. Pcko (Posy)
21. LoucenMilou
22. Jindy a NynThen and Now)
23. T (Uneasy)
24. VzknMessage)
25. Belegrade (Belgrade) - Skampa Quartet
26. Milenec Vrah (Lover Killer)
27. Pomluva (Calumny)
28. LoucenParting)
29. Sirota (Lonely Soul)
30. Osamel Alone)
31. Komu Kytka (For Whom the Posy)
32. Z Od Mil (Love Shining)
33. Polajka (Thyme)
34. Kol(KolTown)
35. Psano (Love Letter)
36. Karafi(Carnation)
37. Rozmarsemary)
38. Pamy (Mementos)
39. Zpevulenka (Tender Little Tune)
40. Nejistota (Uncertainty)
41. Kukacka (Cuckoo)
42. Zahrcka (Fence)
43. Muzikanti (Musicians)
44. Vernost' (Faithfulness)
45. Bolavlava (Headache)
46. Osud (Fate)
47. Daleko ProvdanWedded Far Away)
48. Budk (Wakening)
49. Dobrada (Sound Advice)
50. Slzy echou (Tears of Comfort)
51. Koukol (Corncockle)
52. Kalina (Guelder Rose)
53. Pohreb Zbojnv

Customer Reviews:

Moravian songs, via Janacek, Godar, Bittova and Skampa.......2006-05-09

This is a unique recording of Janacek's transcriptions of Moravian folk songs. Originally for piano and voice, they have been transcribed by Slovak composer Vladimir Godar for string quartet and (occasionally) three-voice male chorus. Here they are performed by renowned Czech singer and violinist Iva Bittova, accompanied by the Skampa Quartet and chorus. The effect is not so much of classical liede, but of authentic eastern European "popular" songs - the sonority of the string quartet adds to this in no small part. Janacek would be proud.

Skampa Quartet is great - the singer... yikes.......2005-07-28

I honestly did not know what I was getting myself into when I bought this CD. I love Janacek, I love folk songs... how could I go wrong? Iva Bittova! I was concerned that she would have a 50yr old woobly voice, but instead what exists is a thin VERY nasal tone... perhaps she should be singing traditional Bulgarian music! The voice is expressive, just ugly.
The recording quality is not very good, either. On many of the tracks, Iva seems to be muffled and in the background of the recording.
Really - dont waste your time and money, unless you really would just like to have a recording of over 50 Janacek songs.

Average customer rating: Great CD Truly Picks Up Some of the Greatest 70s and 80s Love Songs one of R&B's best lionel

Back to Front Lionel Richie Manufacturer: Polygram Int'l ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Pop | Styles | Music Soft Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Contemporary | Vocal Pop | Pop | Styles | Music General | Adult Contemporary | Pop | Styles | Music General | R&B | Styles | Music General | Soul | R&B | Styles | Music Quiet Storm | R&B | Styles | Music R&B | Imports | Stores | Music Pop | Imports | Stores | Music Similar Items: Just For You Louder Than Words Renaissance Time Can't Slow Down ASIN: B00002469S Release Date: 2001-03-20

Tracks:

1. Do It to Me
2. My Destiny
3. Love, Oh Love
4. All Night Long (All Night)
5. Easy - The Commodores, Lionel Richie
6. Still
7. Endless Love
8. Running With the Night
9. Dancing on the Ceiling
10. Sail On
11. Hello
12. Truly
13. Penny Lover
14. Stuck on You
15. Say You, Say Me
16. Three Times a Lady - The Commodores, Lionel Richie

Amazon.com

Lionel Richie's Back to Front isn't just a definitive greatest hits collection, it's a reminder of Richie's supreme strengths as an R&B singer-songwriter. From the gentle sweep of "Do It to Me" to the earnest lovelorn crooning of "Hello," Richie's ballads are timeless. Even the borderline sappy "Endless Love" shines despite cosinger Diana Ross's histrionics. Also featured is "Still" and "Say You, Say Me," and while the faster songs--the Caribbean-inspired rhythms of "All Night Long" and the '80s synthpop of "Running with the Night"--are weaker, they hardly detract from this otherwise sterling survey. --Courtney Kemp

Customer Reviews:

Great CD.......2007-01-24

I think this is one of the best offerings by the great songster. Lionel is one of the greatest singers of all time. You Are My Destiny is on this CD. If you want to purchase a CD, and love Lionel --- This is the one to get.

Truly.......2006-05-12

There are often times where a decent artist can make or break the best reflection of their career with a greatest hits record. While it is often desired as well as it could be, it is often declared as a miss. That has been the case with so many artists like Whitney Houston, Melissa Etheridge, and the late Luther Vandross. They've had a very wonderful reflection of music, but it wasn't that way with their greatest hits records. For Lionel Richie, he has been another example. His era of his solo works, and his success with The Commodores in the 60's and 70's, is arguably some of the most elequent works ever in the history of the Motown era, and his first greatest hits is a mixed reflection of good works.

Back To Front, Lionel Richie's 1992 greatest hits record, tries to do a good job at reflecting Lionel's solo works with his efforts with The Commodores in a convient package of music. The collection does have a lot of great songs that still remain defiant towards Lionel, and what has made him one of the most elequent singer/songwriters ever. The collection includes a lot of great songs from his career including Endless Love with Diana Ross, the Oscar-winning Say You Say Me from White Nights, All Night Long, Easy, and the tender ballad Hello. Although the album does include some great songs, there arguably could've been more added on that was overlooked from not just Lionel's solo works, but also The Commodores as well. The collection overlooks tracks like Love Will Conquer All, the soft and soulful Stuck On You, and Commodores tracks like Lady (You Bring Me Up), and Brick House.

All in all, Back To Front fairs well as a good hits collection reflecting Lionel Richie's career, but there just could've been a whole lot more to have been desired that should've been shown. I absolutely suggest you purchase the 2003 Lionel Richie Definitive Collection instead. It is a much better greatest hits record than this one.

Album Cover: B 1/2-

Songs: B-

Price: B-

Remastering: C+

Overall: C 1/2+

Picks Up Some of the Greatest 70s and 80s Love Songs.......2005-12-31

Lionel Richie reminds me of the boss at my first part time job workplace who had the exactly the same hairstyle and had similar face. Lionel Richie is a perfect student of Motown school and created some of the finest love songs of the 70s and 80s either during Commodores days and his solo works such as LIONEL RICHIE (1981) CAN'T SLOW DOWN (1983) and DANCING ON THE CEILING (1986). Also he contributed a lot to make ADULT CONTEMPORARY household words for ordinary music fans.

It is true that this compilation has some flaws seen from seasoned fans because it misses a lot of great songs that should have been here such as YOU ARE from LIONEL RICHIE or BALLERINA GIRL from DANCING ON THE CEILING. Yet for music fans that are new to him this compilation is an excellent guide to know his music.

EASY, THREE TIMES A LADY, STILL, SAIL ON comes from Commodores all of them are some of my all time favorites. ALL NIGHT LONG is a fun reggae-like pop song and one of my all-time 80s hits. RUNNING WITH THE NIGHT and DANCING ON THE CEILING are the power pop track with excellent guitar solo. HELLO, STUCK ON YOU, PENNY LOVER are the love ballads so unforgettable. ENDLESS LOVE duet with DIANA ROSS is the theme title for the film. Newer tracks are of lesser degree than all time favorite hits but enjoyable. DO IT TO ME might be for someone else to sing, say , LUTHER VANDROSS? MY DESTINY could have been CAN'T SLOW DOWN track.
MY OH MY seems to find a place in WE ARE THE WORLD soundtrack.

Verdict: All Time Favorite Compilation though missing some great songs.
Rating: 94 out of 100
Recommended for: Wide range of music fans who are new to Lionel Richie.

one of R&B's best.......2005-09-06

Rewind 8 years: On my way to high school and BACK TO FRONT is playing on my mom car's stereo...Fast forward to present: and BACK TO FRONT is STILL playing, only this time on MY own CD player.

This album is a definite classic!!! "Back to Front" only gets better each time you listen to it and will have you singing along in no time. Richie's lyrics are plain, simple and sincere; the kind men write to their partners and pass off as their own. His voice too is absolutely phenomenal. This is one of the few albums you listen through without skipping a single track.

Listen out for top songs like "My Destiny"(my personal favourite).

From the first time that I saw you
I knew it was forever
This mighty love between us
Will keep us together
You're the girl God sent from heaven
I'm so glad I found you, Forever............Its lyrics tug at every last string....lovely lovELY, LOVELY!!

Other personal favourites include:
-"Stuck on you" - Doesn't seem to be on this version but it's definitely one of the better tracks.
-"Do it to me one more time"
-"Three times a lady"
-"Running with the night"
I definitely 101% recommend this album to all classic R&B lovers out there. Perfect for a lie-in with that special person..

lionel.......2005-07-27

A superb lyricist, lionel's touching lyrics and superbly delivered vocals touch me every time. This cd is one to buy and leave on repeat all night long...

Average customer rating: psychobilly romper room stomp Meh. Clever, smart, interesting music

Cemetery Shoes Johnny Dowd Manufacturer: Bongo Beat Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Alt-Country & Americana | Country | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Alt-Country & Americana | Country | Indie Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Pictures From Life's Other Side Cruel Words Temporary Shelter Last Days of Wonder Cruel Words ASIN: B00062IEKA Release Date: 2004-10-12

Tracks:

1. Brother Jim
2. Garden Of Delight
3. Whisper In A Nag's Ear
4. Rest In Peace
5. Wedding Dress
6. Shipwreck
7. Dear John Letter
8. Easter Sunday
9. Christmas Is Just Another Day
10. Dylan's Coat
11. Rip Off

Customer Reviews:

psychobilly romper room stomp.......2006-06-05

I have been listening to the "cemetary shoes" album. Okay now be warned before you rush into Johnny he is considered to be in the Genre of "PSYCHOBILLY" so if you do not have at least a passsing appreciation of Rockabilly, punk, goth, and alt country. So don't blame me if he scares the hell out of you or you just don't get it, but if you can get past any prejudices or dislikes you initially have of the music and really listen to the man, he has something to say and a very unique way of saying it. you can hear a few samples of Johnny on his website at www.johnnydowd.com Here are the lyrics to one of his songs that I really like the words to,

Billy Blu



A crooked little man / lives in the underground
Sometimes he goes up / but mostly he stays down

People call him Billy / William is his name
In the coming darkness / he's the keeper of the flame

He repairs radios / with alien transistors
Cosmic commnication / between brothers and sisters

He has information / unavailable to most
He converses with angels / and sleeps with ghosts

Silence is a sadness / a bird with a song
Billy is a sailor / between right and wrong

A world of light and promise / is beyond his memory
In the present he is occupied / preparing for eternity

Lucifer is coming / don't let the children hear
The devil's in the wood pile / judgment day is near

Things that seem simple / are extremely complicated
When you scratch the surface / of things gold-plated

© Johnny Dowd

I hope the more adventurous of you take a listen and give him half a chance and those less adventurous look at all the pictures of his pretty face (well at least that was the one good thing one young lady could find about him). On another interesting note about Johnny he didn't record his first album until he was 50 years old. Well guess I can't complain I didn't put out my first book until I was 34, and I had twenty odd years of material back logged. Which we can really blame on Bob because I really didn't think much of the "bits" I wrote until I heard SBR and I thought man I want to make statements like that. I look at Johnny's lyrics and it so often reminds me of the ways that I string words together. So take a listen, check out what he says, and always keep an open mind, remember don't judge a book by it's cover (or a book of poetry by it's title).

Meh........2004-11-12

Man oh man...you know I love JD, but this album is sort of making me question me faith. I question whether two stars is really fair, but I gave three to The Pawnbroker's Wife, and this is definitely inferior to that one, so that's what it's getting. The most obvious disappointment here--and I think most fans would agree with me on this--is the absence of the immaculate Kim Sherwood-Caso's vocal talents. This was always a big part of the appeal of any Dowd album; she made good songs into stunning songs, and I suspect that, even if the ones here aren't as good as usual, she could have partially redeemed some of them. I certainly hope the two of them haven't had some sort of falling out, and that we'll hear more of her in future Dowd recordings.

Here's what's good about this album: the frenzied 'Garden of Delights.' I would say that this is the one song here that approaches classic status; an unnervingly intense tale of murder/suicide. Also pretty good: 'Wedding Dress,' with its entertaining southern gothic lyric (maybe Dowd should write books). That and 'Brother Jim' have a gospel feel to them (even if one's about a crossdressing butcher and the other a clerical murderer). 'Whisper in the Nag's Ear' might be okay on its own, but it just seems pointlessly overdone compared to the spare original version on Pictures From Life's Other Side.

But...most of the songs are just kind of there. Not unpleasant to listen to, but not exactly exciting either. I expect a lot more from the guy who wrote 'Worried Mind' and 'Hell or High Water.' Better luck next time.

Clever, smart, interesting music.......2004-11-09

Johnny Dowd makes me appreciate having ears to hear with and a mind to think with. Here is a man who, in a just world, would enjoy the success that more commercial musicians do today; that he does not is a real crime (then again, the world's loss is his fans' gain). His music is deep, dark and thoughtful, but well crafted, like an Alfred Hitchcock film. The tunes take some getting used to, as does his voice, because they cover material not usually associated with today's homogenized and emasculated pop and radio scene. But like most acquired tastes, you wonder how you ever got along without it. He writes music like the moon casts shadows, makes you look over your shoulder, and consider your fate. His albums, including his recent, Cemetary Shoes, deal with topics from the seamy side of life, a portion of the world that is anathema to the Britneys, the Jessicas, and the other pop tarts of music. If you appreciate artistry, thought and challenge, check out the Dowd catalog. Stretch your imagination a little. Take a chance on his music and experience an enveloping warmth that is cognition and emotion melding.

Average customer rating: Today's bluegrass at its best. Pleasing Excellent! Not sure if you like bluegrass? This'll make you a fan! Even my 5 year-old daughter loves it.

Back to Red River Front Range Manufacturer: Sugarhill [Country] ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Country | Styles | Music General | Traditional Country | Country | Styles | Music General | Bluegrass | Country | Styles | Music Contemporary | Bluegrass | Country | Styles | Music Traditional | Bluegrass | Country | Styles | Music General | Contemporary Folk | Folk | Styles | Music Traditional Folk | Folk | Styles | Music General | Country | Indie Music | Stores | Music Bluegrass | Country | Indie Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Silent Ground One Beautiful Day Ramblin' on My Mind The New Frontier ASIN: B000000F2U Release Date: 1993-10-22

Tracks:

1. The Red River Valley/Back To Red River
2. The Hills That I Call Home
3. Maybe This Time
4. Two Empty Arms (And One Broken Heart)
5. False Summit
6. I've Always Been A Rambler
7. Over In The Gloryland
8. Forever By My Side
9. Cold North Wind
10. Sunny Side Of Life
11. Plains Of The Buffalo
12. Please Joanna
13. So Many Pathways

Customer Reviews:

Today's bluegrass at its best........2004-04-15

Bluegrass is a music in which traditional repertoire plays an important role, and most popular bluegrass bands today record as much classic as new material. Front Range is one of a small number of bands whose recordings constantly introduce original material into the genre. Owing mostly to the band's incredible vocal blend, the band's sound is unique and identifiable, but it stays true to its bluegrass roots. This recording is perhaps their best, with strong writing throughout and a less formulaic approach to arranging than some of their subsequent efforts. Particularly satisfying are the blazing-fast "Back to Red River" and "Please Joanna," the blues-tinged "Two Empty Arms (And One Broken Heart)," and the songwriting showcase "The Hills That I Call Home." The a cappella arrangement of "Over In the Gloryland" gives me chills. If you are a fan of bands like Hot Rize and Blue Highway, you'll love Front Range. Highly recommended.

Pleasing.......2002-05-15

For me three stars is a good a CD. Front Range is a fine band and this is a solid project. I enjoy the band but personally this ablum does not soar, it only flys. "The Hills That I Call Home" is an exceptional song and there are other good efforts including the fine instrumental "False Summit".

This would be a good CD to fill out a bluegrass collection.

Excellent!.......2001-07-02

I am relatively new to Bluegrass but this has already become a staple in my CD collection. Some of the best harmonies I have ever heard with some killer banjo and guitar! What else could you want?

Not sure if you like bluegrass? This'll make you a fan!.......1999-10-30

I was fortunate to see this group in concert and they sound as good in person as they do in the studio. Their harmonies are strong and each member is an outstanding musician. Bob Amos writes some great lyrics and they're entertaining in concert. Songs range from lively (Back to Red River, Joanna) to dark and moving (Cold Northwind, Two Empty Arms) to silly (Sunny Side of Life). Some of the melodies and voice arrangements give me chills. Can't wait for their next release. You can't help but sing along-a truly great album from start to finish!

Even my 5 year-old daughter loves it........1998-11-18

This CD has it all, from banjo and mandolin solos to an incredible acapella on the 7th track. (My daughter wont be driven to school now without hearing that song.) Every song flows with melody and "down-home" lyrics that provide hours of effortless listening.

Average customer rating: The Magic Band: Back to the Front How sad. I Feel Pretty Booglarized. okay, four and a half cause you-know-who is missing Not-So-Magic

Back to the Front Magic Band Manufacturer: Atp Recordings ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Proto Punk | Hardcore & Punk | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Experimental Rock | Rock | Alternative Styles | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Blues Rock | Rock | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Experimental Music | Miscellaneous | Styles | Music Similar Items: 21st Century Mirror Men Legendary A&M Sessions Mallard/In a Different Climate Strictly Personal Unconditionally Guaranteed ASIN: B00009V7Q0 Release Date: 2003-07-08

Tracks:

1. My Human Gets me Blues
2. Click Clack
3. Abba Zaba
4. I'm Gonna Booglarize You Baby
5. Sun Zoom Sparks
6. Alice In Blunderland
7. Steal Softly Thru Snow
8. Dropout Boogie
9. Moonlight On Vermont
10. Circumstances
11. On Tomorrow
12. The Floppy Boot Stomp
13. Hair Pie
14. Nowadays A Woman's Gotta Hit A Man
15. When It Blows Its Stacks
16. I Wanna Find A Woman That'll Hold My Big Toe Till I Have To Go/Sure 'Nuff 'N Yes I Do

Album Description

After 20 dormant years, Captain Beefheart's legendary group has reunited to play some shows and perform at the forthcoming ATP festival in LA. Features key members John ''Drumbo'' French, Gary "Mantis'' Lucas, Denny ''Feelers Reebo'' Walley, and Mark ''Rockette Morton'' Boston. Playing classic tracks from all the best albums such as 'Safe As Milk', 'Trout Mask Replica', 'Lick My Decals Off Baby', and Clearspot', this is something all Beefheart fans must have. Includes the bonus track 'Nuff 'N Yes I Do'. All Tomorrows Parties. Digipak. 2003.

Customer Reviews:

The Magic Band: Back to the Front.......2007-04-01

This really is the Magic Band in top form. Man, this CD is way better than I expected. I'm torn about the vocals: John French does a terrific DVV impression, but then again...why? I'd almost rather he just sing in his own voice, or else not sing at all and make this an instrumental disc. No matter. The actual instrumental ensemble is great, even better than the originals on some of the songs in my humble opinion. The heavier, beefier (no pun intended), more "rock" sound works well for most tracks.

Incidentally, I found it funny when my CD came in the mail to find just how badly the previous Amazon reviews had plagiarized from the brief liner notes. The notes say "When you hear these brand-new Magic Band recordings of their classic songs, you're gonna be booglarized baby!" and also, "We've been pummelled into numbness by the pedestrian rhythmic drudgery of 99% of all rock music of the last 20 years." Compare those quotes against the eight Amazon reviews preceding this one, and you'll find at least 3 instances of direct word lifting.

Anyway, that doesn't matter. I shouldn't be bashing my fellow Beefheart fans, because we need to stick together. Long live Beefheart, and long live The Magic Band!

How sad........2005-01-20

How embarassing. You'd think these guys, most of whom who claim to have been great enough to earn co-arrangment credits along with Van Vliet, would be too busy creating their own fine and dandy material to have time for stuff already 30+ years old. Use the Mallard name again, produce some NEW music. Eh?

Don's moved on, shame they haven't.

John French, you're talented & smart! Why in God's name are you making an ass of yourself by poorly imitating the Captain's vocals? They were given the chance to tackle the stuff again, why not leave it at instrumentals? The sample of "Moonlight on Vermont" alone reveals the singing as what it is. Shoddy emulation.

I Feel Pretty Booglarized. .......2005-01-03

The Crew without the Captain have put out a worthy disc, but it kind of pales next to the original versions of these fantastic songs. Don't get me wrong, nostalgia from The Magic Band is more relevant than 99% of the newly released stuff out there. It's just that I can't help comparing these to the originals, and the originals are the best rock music ever!

John French is an incredibly innovative drummer, and he is a credible Beefheart impersonator. He sounds pretty close on Circumstances and Dropout Boogie, but why impersonate a voice that is beyond duplication? Captain Don's voice was a force of nature. I don't mean to sound unkind, I'd see this band live in a second! It's just that I find the instrumental versions of these classics to be the most effective.

Speaking of which: the instrumental versions of My Human Gets Me Blues, Abba Zaba, and Steal Softly Thru Snow are simply incredible!! It's a pity that this band didn't perform more of the Trout Mask Replica tracks as instrumentals. I'd love to hear Ella Guru, Pachuco Cadaver, and Hobo Chang Ba in all their instrumental complexity !!! Hair Pie lacks the great Zoot Horn Rollo's aggressive technique, but it's still an incredible experience. Hopefully the new Magic Band will tour around our neck of the woods. I wouldn't miss it!

okay, four and a half cause you-know-who is missing.......2004-03-31

If you like Beefheart's music, you'll love this CD. I read some of the other reviews and they knock the fact that this is all updated old material, but isn't that what we really want to hear, anyway? This band still rocks and that's what counts. Plus, it's a lot better than 99% of the crap that passes for rock/alternative music today.

Not-So-Magic.......2004-01-12

Unlike the Grandmothers (ex-Mothers of Invention), this band of ex-Captain Beefheart alums seems content to coast on 30-year old laurels. Although the sound here is close to the original (even without their leading talent Bill "Zoot Horn" Harkleroad), the band slogs through essentially unchanged renditions from the Beefheart catalog. It's like a particularly-qualified Beefheart cover band -- and who wants to hear ersatz Beefheart without Don?

I would have much preferred if they'd taken their undoubted talents and come up with a album of new tunes. They always said the Magic Band wrote "Trout Mask" as much as Don -- why not prove it?

Average customer rating: Sleeping Giant!!

Back To Front Arnold McCuller Manufacturer: Wgr Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | R&B | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music General | R&B | Indie Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Exception to the Rule Live Circa 1990 James Taylor Live at the Beacon Theatre James Taylor at Christmas ASIN: B00005Q47T Release Date: 2002-04-23

Tracks:

1. Nick Of Time
2. Baby King
3. First Of May
4. Hot And Sultry Afternoon
5. Hold On My Heart
6. Oughta Know By Now
7. Paper Walls
8. Look Up From Your Life
9. Lazy Nina
10. I Can't Make You Love Me
11. Closing Time

Customer Reviews:

Sleeping Giant!!.......2002-08-11

I got this CD at a James Taylor concert..with Arnold singing back-up. Whenever he sang solo, I noticed he had his own "fan club" cheering from his side of the stage. They were right! I play this CD all the time, and it's grown to be one of my favorites. He melts my heart in "Hot and Sultry Afternoon" and "I Can't Make You Love Me". He's got a smooth, easy style with seemingly no limits to the power behind his voice. Can't wait to see him LIVE some day.

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1. Best 1200 [Limited Edition] [Import]
2. Blowing the Fuse: 29 R&B Classics That Rocked the Jukebox in 1955
3. Breaks, Vol. 1
4. Brown Skin [Import]
5. Collection [Import]
6. Collection [Import]
7. Come Get It: The Complete Josie Recordings 1970-1971 [Import]
8. Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Church of God in Christ Mass Choir - LIVE at 80th Annual Holy Convocation [Live]
9. Dearest [Import]
10. Definitive Ray Charles [Import]

Christian Music

christian music

Christian Music

Lust and Found

Night Music 5

Midnight Memories

It Still Rains in Memphis

Punk'n Roll, Vol. 2 [Import]

Northern Seascape

Maxximum [Limited Edition] [Import]

Power Pop, Vol. 1

People, Places, and Flings

Rameau: Anacréon; Daphnis et Eglé

Only Forever [Import]

Polite Conversation

Llaves De La Tradicion [Import]

Jazz Blues & Other Hues

Vol. 1 - Club Classics 10th Anniversary