2002 [Explicit Lyrics]

Amazon.com
Daz and Kurupt were two of the fiercest up-and-comers in the left-coast rap game when they were still signed to Death Row records. So it's too bad that Tha Dogg Pound 2002 joins a slew of other questionable releases (Snoop Dogg's Dead Man Walkin', the Chronic 2000 compilation) put out by label CEO Suge Knight to snuff out his former artists own legitimate new releases. But then again, if you own your former artists' master tapes, names, and publishing rights, like Knight does, you can do whatever you please with their old studio outtakes. Sadly, 2002 is littered with sloppy subpar mix-downs ("Livin the Gangsta Life"), dated and uncomfortable subject matter ("Don't Stop" features Tupac dissing the Notorious B.I.G.), and lame lyrics that shouldn't see the light of day ("Crip wit Us" awkwardly obsesses about cash, guns, and overpriced cars). On the other hand, 2002 flaunts guest appearances by a who's who of the hip-hoperati from Jay-Z to Xzibit, while "Smoke" and "Every Single Day" do a decent job of encapsulating the groovy G-funk mantra of the classic Death Row era. True Death Row fans can cop this release, but it might also be in their best interest to check out the independently released Dillinger and Young Gotti reunion album that demonstrates just how much the duo have progressed since they recorded material found on this album. --Dalton Higgins

Product Description
Tha Dogg Pound are Daz and Kurrupt. 2002 features tracks produced by Dr. Dre. Also included on the album are Nate Dogg, Soopafly, Crooked I and Big Hutch. 16 tracks. A Death Row Records release.

2002,Tha Dogg Pound,D-3 Entertainment,G-Funk,Gangsta Rap,Pop,Rap & Hip-Hop,West Coast Rap

Average customer rating: cd purchase I CAN HEAR THE BELLS My New Obsession Hairspray CD You Can't Stop the Beat!

Hairspray (2002 Original Broadway Cast) Marc Shaiman , Scott Wittman , Marissa Jaret Winokur , Harvey Fierstein , and Kerry Butler Manufacturer: Sony ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Musicals | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music General | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music Pop | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music All Blowout Music | Blowout Music | Stores | Music More Titles at Least 25% Off | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Musicals | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Similar Items: Wicked (2003 Original Broadway Cast) Hairspray Avenue Q (2003 Original Broadway Cast) Mamma Mia! The Musical Based on the Songs of ABBA: A Decca Broadway Original Cast Recording (1999 London Cast) The Lion King (1997 Original Broadway Cast) ASIN: B00006AALQ Release Date: 2002-08-13

Tracks:

1. Good Morning Baltimore
2. The Nicest Kids In Town
3. Mama, I'm A Big Girl Now
4. I Can Hear The Bells
5. (The Legend of) Miss Baltimore Crabs
6. It Takes Two
7. Welcome To The 60's
8. Run And Tell That!
9. Big, Blonde And Beautiful
10. The Big Dollhouse
11. Good Morning Baltimore Reprise
12. (You're) Timeless To Me
13. Without Love
14. I Know Where I've Been
15. (It's) Hairspray
16. Cooties
17. You Can't Stop The Beat

Amazon.com

The cast recording for the Broadway musical of John Waters's 1988 paean to dance, music, big beautiful women, and integration is a sheer delight. It's wonderfully upbeat all the way through, with a classic feel that's in keeping with the story's setting in the early 1960s. The characters come alive in these songs, from Marissa Jaret Winokur's (Tracy Turnblad) opening lines in "Good Morning Baltimore" to the stunningly upbeat finale, "You Can't Stop the Beat." The music is by Marc Shaiman, whose recent projects include South Park: Bigger, Longer & Uncut, as well as a number of film soundtracks, and his compositions are simultaneously solid and exuberant. Shaiman and Scott Wittman's lyrics brim over with the unreserved passions and primary-color emotions that made the film so successful. Regardless of one's familiarity with the story or the stage production, it's hard to avoid the appeal of this recording; even the less cheerful songs are awash in bright colors, without disrespect for their subjects. --Genevieve Williams

Customer Reviews:

cd purchase.......2007-07-30

this is very good. I bought this for my wife and she likes it very mouch. SHE saw the musical in new york city.

I CAN HEAR THE BELLS .......2007-05-18

YOU SHOULD BUY THIS CD WHEN YOU WANT THAT LIITLE PICK ME UP. ALSO VERY GOOD THING TO LISEN TO ON THAT TRIP TO WORK OR SCHOOL OR EVEN CLASS IF YOUR IN COLLEGE.

My New Obsession.......2007-02-07

I've been lingering over this CD for the past few weeks and finally decided to buy it and so happy I did so. This is all I've been listening to for the past few days.

From the great opener 'Good Morning Baltimore' to the best closing song I've ever heard, 'You Can't Stop the Beat', this recording is a gem.

One of my favorite songs on this soundtrack is 'The Nicest Kids in Town'. It has that kind of beat that's hard to not dance to. Another favorite is 'Mama, I'm A Big Girl Now'. It reminds me of the songs of Leslie Gore. My favorite line comes from Amber von Tussle "Once upon a time I used to dress up Ken/but now that I'm a woman I like bigger men/And I don't need a Barbie doll to show me how".

'(The Legend of)Miss Baltimore Crabs' is a glorious song for the villain. With wonderful drumming and violins in the background, Velma von Tussel has a great solo song.

'It Takes Two' is such a great slow song. I can just imagine a 1960's prom. Everyone slow dancing and the lights low. A band set up on the stage. I can't help sing along.

'Welcome to the 60's' is another wonderful song. It seems to be everyone's favorite. It's one of mine too. Harvey Fierstein is great as Edna.

'Big, Blonde, & Beautiful' is another good song. A good message to all big girls to be proud of yourself. Ignore what everyone says about you and strut. "Bring on that pecan pie/pour some sugar on it/Sugar don't be shy"

'(You're) Timeless to Me' is such a cute song between Wilbur and Edna.

'Without Love' is my number one favorite on this recording. Link proclaiming his love to Tracy who's locked up in solitary confinement and Seaweed proclaiming his love to Penny who's tied up on her bed. "Darling I'll be yours forever/'cause I never wanna be/Without love/so darling throw away the key"

'I Know Where I've Been' is a glorious gospel song. Sung by Motormouth Maybelle about her experiences and having learned from them.

'Cooties' is such a childish sounding song but it's the kind of song that should have it's own dance. It's too much fun.

The little song that follows 'You Can't Stop the Beat' is so funny and dark. I don't know the name, I just refer to as 'Blood on the Pavement'. "Don't drink and drive/please keep your head/Or come graduation day/you'll be dead".

I recommend this soundtrack to everyone. It's the kind of soundtrack that doesn't sound like a musical soundtrack.

Hairspray CD.......2007-01-14

If you loved the Broadway, you'll love this cd. A friend heard me playing the cd and asked what radio station I was listening to so he could tune in.

You Can't Stop the Beat!.......2006-11-30

I could try to come up with a more clever title for this review, but the title of the last track says it all about the soundtrack from the Broadway show Hairspray. I went reluctantly ($110 per ticket) on my last trip to NYC, and found to my surprise that I enjoyed the show and then adored the soundtrack--every number is performed with great gusto and excitement. "Good Morning Baltimore", sung by Marissa Winokur as Tracy Turnblad, the portly dance-crazed teen from 1963 Baltimore, gets the show off to a great start. "The Nicest Kids in Town" takes you back to the days of American Bandstand and its local knockoffs. "The Bells" was one I knew before seeing the show as my daughter and her friends sang (or at least lip synched) it at a drama camp talent show. "It Takes Two", a teen idol number sung by the character Link, sounds much better to me that the real Frankie Avalon/Ricky Nelson tunes of the early '60s that are its models. Other great songs, many with a civil rights theme following from the story of the film, follow, topped off by "Cooties"--an insult song sung by Tracy's rival Amber Von Tussle, and the showstopping (literally) finale "You Can't Stop the Beat", which sounds more urgent with every listen. Along the way the songwriters include some clever and slightly subversive lyrics--Tracy sings about the "rats on the street" who "all dance round my feet"; Linc croons that "Liz, she has her Dick"; and Penny Pingleton is ready to "call the NAACP" if anyone challenges her love for her African-American boyfriend Seaweed. Some have said that Hairspray is the Grease of the 21st century, but to me it's much better-more human; and also significantly better than the '80s comedy film on which the musical was based. We await with excitement and trepidation the film musical, which could hardly improve on the stage show, but in any event we'll get to hear those great songs again.

Average customer rating: Good compilation. you can tell everybody these are your songs Dollars and (common) cents. A great greatest hits Elton lovers rejoice

Elton John - Greatest Hits 1970-2002 Elton John Manufacturer: Utv Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music General | Pop | Styles | Music Singer-Songwriters | Pop | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Contemporary | Vocal Pop | Pop | Styles | Music General | Adult Contemporary | Pop | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Album-Oriented Rock (AOR) | Classic Rock | Styles | Music General | Pop | Box Sets | Stores | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Box Sets | Stores | Music General | Rock | Box Sets | Stores | Music Classic Rock | Box Sets | Stores | Music Pop | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Classic Rock | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Rock | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Alternative Rock | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music All Blowout Music | Blowout Music | Stores | Music More Titles at Least 25% Off | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: The Very Best of Fleetwood Mac Billy Joel - Greatest Hits Vol. 1-2 Eagles : The Very Best of The Very Best of Chicago: Only the Beginning The Very Best of Rod Stewart ASIN: B00006RAKP Release Date: 2002-11-12

Tracks:

1. Your Song
2. Levon
3. Tiny Dancer
4. Rocket Man (I Think It's Going To Be A Long Long Time)
5. Honky Cat
6. Crocodile Rock
7. Daniel
8. Saturday Night's Alright (For Fighting)
9. Goodbye Yellow Brick Road
10. Candle In The Wind
11. Bennie And The Jets
12. Don't Let The Sun Go Down On Me
13. The Bitch Is Back
14. Philadelphia Freedom
15. Someone Saved My Life Tonight
16. Island Girl
17. Sorry Seems To Be The Hardest Word

Tracks:

1. Don't Go Breaking My Heart
2. Little Jeannie
3. I'm Still Standing
4. I Guess That's Why They Call It The Blues
5. Sad Songs (Say So Much)
6. I Don't Wanna Go On With You Like That
7. Nikita
8. Sacrifice
9. The One
10. Can You Feel The Love Tonight
11. Circle Of Life
12. Believe
13. Blessed
14. Something About The Way You Look Tonight
15. I Want Love
16. Written In The Stars
17. This Train Don't Stop There Anymore

Amazon.com

This is the first attempt to consolidate all of Sir Elton's hit singles, from three labels, in one collection. It once would've required at least four CDs to own the best stuff here. Many think the legendary performer was at his best in the early to mid-'70s, and the incredible string of singles that ran from 1970's "Your Song" through 1977's "Sorry Seems to Be the Hardest Word" remains mighty impressive. But in retrospect, as they're presented here, '80s hits like "I'm Still Standing" and "Sad Songs" add much to an already amazing legacy. Three Disney tunes, the lush "The One," and two from Songs from the West Coast, which was hailed as a return to those '70s golden days, represent the later years. Collectively, these tracks reinforce the notion that, despite Michael Jackson's later proclamations, John was once the closest thing post-'60s music had to a genuine king of pop, respected by hipsters and the mainstream alike. --Bill Holdship

Customer Reviews:

Good compilation........2007-07-28

This is a really good compilation of Johns'hits, but a great compilation should include several more 70's songs, as previously said by some reviewers.
There are just to many really great songs from Elton John's 70's period. Just to name a few not included: "Mona Lisa And Mad Hatters", "Tonight", "Sixty Years On", "I need You to Turn To", "Madman Across the Water", etc, etc.

Nevertheless it's a great introduction to Elton's career. But if you want make yourself a treat, please buy "Elton John live in Australia", it's maybe his best CD released ever, all of his hits backed by the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra Live In Australia With The Melbourne Symphony Orchestra. Now that CD is just brilliant.

PS: in disc two, where is Blue Eyes?! Great song.

you can tell everybody these are your songs.......2007-07-19

elton john's greatest hits 1970-2002 has 34 classic songs,plus a limited-edition bonus disc with 4 more songs. your song starts things off nicely.i also like the songs tiny dancer(later redone by tim mcgraw.),crocidile rock,island girl,sorry seems to be the hardest word, don't go breaking my heart,i'm still standing,sad dongs(say so much), can you feel the love tonight,iwant love,and this train doesn't stop here anymore.the bonus disc is good too. thanks for the music elton. ed wilson

Dollars and (common) cents........2007-06-12

I'm going to rate this CD based on a $1 per song cost to total cost for the entire CD (Apple and Rhapsody charge $1 per song).
Elton John is good. This CD is even better. I was disappointed to learn that he didn't write a lick of his own lyrics (Bernie Taupin did). Elton John just wrote the music. And I guess we need to hear great music before we'll listen to the lyrics of a song.
Amazon is currently selling the CD for $15. The good news is that there is $20 worth of great music on it. This CD is worth ever dollar and them some. The essential Elton John songs are: Disc 1 - Tracks 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,11,12,13,14,15 & 16 (and I guess Candle In The Wind). Disc 2 - Tracks 1,3,4,5 & 6.
Hope this helps.
Darium June 2007

A great greatest hits.......2007-06-05

I got this as a birthday present and it's fab! It has all the songs that Elton is well known for and a few you maybe have forgotten about. It's easy listening and great for singing along to. Big thumbs up from me!

Elton lovers rejoice.......2007-05-06

I've got lots of old Elton on vinyl (yes, I'm old) and was delighted to find 37 Elton tunes on CD for such a great price. This is a wonderful collection with some newer songs I didn't have. And I can play them in the car! (vinyl is not so good for that).

Average customer rating: The Best and the Rest Great Deal! Fast shipping! The Cranberries Singles 1992-2002 love it !! Great CD

Stars: The Best of the Cranberries, 1992-2002 Cranberries Manufacturer: Island ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Adult Alternative | Pop | Styles | Music Pop | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Rock | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Alternative Rock | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music All Blowout Music | Blowout Music | Stores | Music More Titles at Least 25% Off | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: The Smashing Pumpkins - Greatest Hits - Rotten Apples In Time: The Best of R.E.M. 1988-2003 Are You Listening The Collection The Singles 1992-2003 ASIN: B00006IX0R Release Date: 2002-09-24

Tracks:

1. Dreams
2. Linger
3. Zombie
4. Ode To My Family
5. I Can't Be With You
6. Ridiculous Thoughts
7. Salvation
8. Free To Decide
9. When You're Gone
10. Hollywood
11. Promises
12. Animal Instinct
13. Just My Imagination
14. You & Me
15. Analyse
16. Time Is Ticking Out
17. This Is The Day
18. Daffodil Lament
19. New New York
20. Stars

Customer Reviews:

The Best and the Rest.......2007-07-23

This collection has all of the Cranberries hits that the casual fan knows. For a causal fan though it also has a bunch of tracks that you've never heard and could have gone without hearing. But what the hell, I got the songs I wanted, may as well fill the cd up anyway.

Great Deal! Fast shipping!.......2007-06-02

This was a supper deal and the shipping was extreamly quick~!

The Cranberries Singles 1992-2002.......2007-04-17

I will admit the title "Best" is deceptive, but the record company did many of us a favor who own the Cranberries albums. This compilation offers the single versions and created new edits, which is clearly stated in the booklet. Imagine trying to buy all eighteen songs (pictured in the booklet) individually? The last two songs on this CD, making the total twenty were previously unreleased. The Pop-Rockin' "Stars" is no token throw-away. It one of their better songs in the last phase of the Cranberries. I like the single versions better on this CD and album versions better on the individual albums if that makes sense. A true "Best" is owning "Everybody Else Is Doing It So Why Can't We? - Complete", "No Need To Argue - Complete" and this compilation. The other indivdual songs is personal choice. The band also had the fans vote for their favourite non-single - "Daffodil Lament". So what is offered here is sampler of their five albums. For a beginner, it's good enough. For a big fan, it closes the book unless the band gets back together. In the 1990's the Dave Matthews Band and the Cranberries were Modern Rock's best.

love it !!.......2007-03-12

CD is awesome!! been playing it since I got it. Its still in my cd player .
Fast shipping and great quality.
Thanks .

Great CD.......2007-01-10

It's the Cranberries. If you like them, you love them, and if you don't, you don't.
It's a great CD, but how could it not be?

Average customer rating: Excellent Musical, But Product Quality - Eh MODERNIZE your music collection!!! A must to add to your collection Delightful YOU WILL LOVE IT

Thoroughly Modern Millie (2002 Original Broadway Cast) Jeanine Tesori , Dick Scanlan , and Sutton Foster Manufacturer: RCA Victor Broadway ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Musicals | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music Contemporary Musicals | Musicals | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music General | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music General | Soundtracks | Styles | Music General | Vocal Pop | Pop | Styles | Music Pop | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Soundtracks | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Classical | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music All Blowout Music | Blowout Music | Stores | Music More Titles at Least 25% Off | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Musicals | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Similar Items: Thoroughly Modern Millie Thoroughly Modern Millie: Vocal Selections Little Women The Musical (2005 Original Broadway Cast) Hairspray (2002 Original Broadway Cast) The Drowsy Chaperone (2006 Original Broadway Cast) ASIN: B000066B4Y Release Date: 2002-06-11

Tracks:

1. Overture (Orchestra)
2. Not for the Life of Me (Sutton Foster)
3. Thoroughly Modern Millie (Sutton Foster and Ensemble)
4. Not for the Life of Me (Sutton Foster, JoAnn M. Hunter, Alisa Klein, Jessica Grove, Megan Sikora, Catherine Brunell and Kate Baldwin)
5. How the Other Half Lives (Angela Christian and Sutton Foster)
6. Not for the Life of Me (reprise) (Ken Leung and Francis Jue)
7. The Speed Test (Marc Kudisch, Sutton Foster, Anne L. Nathan and Ensemble)
8. They Don't Know (Harriet Harris)
9. The Nuttycracker Suite (Orchestra)
10. What Do I Need with Love? (Gavin Creel)
11. Only in New York (Sheryl Lee Ralph)
12. Jimmy (Sutton Foster)
13. Back at Work (Orchestra with Sutton Foster, Anne L. Nathan and Ensemble)
14. Forget About the Boy (Sutton Foster, Anne L. Nathan and Ensemble)
15. Ah! Sweet Mystery of Life/I'm Falling in Love with Someone (Marc Kudisch and Angela Christian)
16. I Turned the Corner/I'm Falling in Love with Someone (quartet/reprise) (Gavin Creel and Sutton Foster, Marc Kudisch and Angela Christian)
17. Muqin (Harriet Harris, Francis Jue and Ken Leung)
18. Long as I'm Here with You (Sheryl Lee Ralph and Male Ensemble)
19. Gimme Gimme (Sutton Foster)
20. Finale (Thoroughly Modern Millie) (Gavin Creel, Angela Christian and Ensemble with Sheryl Lee Ralph and Sutton Foster)
21. Final Bows (Entire Company)

Amazon.com

Although it's based on the 1967 movie of the same name, Thoroughly Modern Millie is almost thoroughly new. Composer Jeanine Tesori (Violet) and lyricist Dick Scanlan wrote a whole batch of songs, while retaining a couple from the movie--including the Jimmy van Heusen-Sammy Cahn title tune--and recycling even older material (look for Victor Herbert's "I'm Falling in Love with Someone" and the inventively arranged "Nuttycracker Suite"). Miraculously, the show, set during the jazz age, doesn't feel stitched together, and Tesori does a great job cranking out swinging melodies. Sutton Foster is appropriately brassy as Millie, but she can also tone it down, as in the beginning of "Gimme Gimme" (of course, she then proceeds to project up to the last rafters as the song builds to its climax). Harriet Harris, as nasty Mrs. Meers, steals the show with "They Don't Know." Close your eyes, listen to her, and you'll be back in Broadway's golden age. --Elisabeth Vincentelli

Customer Reviews:

Excellent Musical, But Product Quality - Eh.......2007-07-15

I absolutely love the musical so I'm thrilled with the cd.

My problem was not with the quality of the cd, but with the plastic case. The cd cases always come cracked. Although it doesn't affect the quality of the cd itself, it's rather disheartening that Amazon charges customers for its poor shipping.

MODERNIZE your music collection!!!.......2007-07-13

This is an AMAZING musical and great album. It is sure to jazz-up any music collection! BUY THIS ALBUM NOW!

A must to add to your collection.......2007-05-18

I was very fortunate enough to see this on Broadway. It was one of the best shows I've ever seen! The music has just enough jazz and contemporary vive that any musical lover would enjoy! It's also got tapping in it! Sutton is simply awesome in this role and all of the cast can really belt out their songs. Harriet Harris is phenominal in her role as Mrs. Meers. I highly recommend this to all broadway lovers! It's one to add to your collection!

Delightful.......2006-06-12

The music takes a little bit to grow on you, but boy, does it! It's wonderful, charming, romantic, funny--just like the play itself. I loved almost every song and I was really impressed with "Long As I'm Here With You"-- I thought it was an old song written back in the twenties, because it so sounded like one. The cast is absolutely energetic and endearing, and Sutton Foster just *rocks*. Definitely worth the money.

YOU WILL LOVE IT.......2006-02-17

If you like musicals, you will NOT REGRET purchasing this musical soundtrack. JUST DO IT. It's so great, you will be listening to it forever. I also saw the show at the Kennedy Center in D.C. and it's one of the best I've ever seen. (And I've seen A LOT.)

Have Fun!

Average customer rating: Best work by the new Sondheim second time buying this Jason Robert Brown's newest, not best. If You Didn't Believe In Jason Robert Brown, You Should Now The Last 5 Years

The Last 5 Years (2002 Off-Broadway Cast) Jason Robert Brown , Norbert Leo Butz , and Sherie Rene Scott Manufacturer: Ghostlight ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Musicals | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music Contemporary Musicals | Musicals | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music General | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music General | Soundtracks | Styles | Music Similar Items: Songs for a New World (1996 Original New York Cast) The Last Five Years - Vocal Selections Parade (1998 Original Broadway Cast) Tick, Tick... Boom! (2001 Original Off-Broadway Cast) Wearing Someone Else's Clothes ASIN: B000065CXP Release Date: 2002-04-16

Tracks:

1. Still Hurting
2. Shiksa Goddess
3. See I'm Smiling
4. Moving Too Fast
5. A Part of That
6. The Schmuel Song
7. A Summer in Ohio
8. The Next Ten Minutes
9. A Miracle Would Happen/When You Come Home to Me
10. Climbing Uphill
11. If I Didn't Believe in You
12. I Can Do Better Than That
13. Nobody Needs to Know
14. Goodbye Until Tomorrow/I Could Never Rescue You

Amazon.com

Jason Robert Brown burst on the musical-theater scene with a bang when his first Broadway show, Parade, won the Tony for original score in 1999. This new offering is more modest in scale than Parade, but it allows Brown to refine his skills. A two-character, one-act play, The Last 5 Years retraces a relationship through a complex structure that involves varying viewpoints and a chronology that unfurls backward and forward. Brown himself plays the piano and leads a small ensemble, while Norbert Leo Butz (Thou Shalt Not) and Sherie René Scott (Aida) sing the composer's heartbreaking melodies. Brown's lyrics need a bit of work (he can be oddly crass at unexpected moments), but he knows how to write songs that incorporate a pop sensibility and a distinctly theatrical narrative drive. That in itself is quite an achievement. --Elisabeth Vincentelli

Description

A fresh and contemporary musical from Tony Award-winning composer Jason Robert Brown (Parade), "The Last 5 Years" chronicles a young couple's romance in a new and exciting way: Her story starts at the end of their relationship, his begins on the day they met. Funny and uplifting, the show captures some of the most heartbreaking and universally-felt moments of modern romance. Co-star Norbert Leo Butz was last seen on Broadway in Harry Connick Jr.'s "Thou Shalt Not," appeared in the hit musical "Rent," and portrayed the emcee in the touring production of "Cabaret." Sherie Rene Scott, last seen on Broadway in Elton John and Tim Rice's "Aida," also starred in "Rent" and "The Who's Tommy." Songs: Still Hurting, Shiksa Goddess, See I'm Smiling, Moving Too Fast, A Part of That, The Schmuel Song, A Summer in Ohio, The Next Ten Minutes, A Miracle Would Happen/When You Come Home to Me, Climbing Uphill, If I Didn't Believe in You, I Can Do Better Than That, Nobody Needs to Know, Goodbye Until Tomorrow/I Could Never Rescue You.

Customer Reviews:

Best work by the new Sondheim.......2007-06-08

If you like Sondheim, you will like Jason Robert Brown. His music is more sophisticated than Jonathan Larson, and yet still akin to popular music for our generation! I feel this musical is his best-to-date, but I can't wait to see the new pieces in store. If you liked "Songs for a New World", you will not be disappointed in this work. It is a little more like a traditional musical with a plot that weaves between two parts of a couple, and how they move through their relationship together (the trick is, he is going backwards in time, she forwards--they meet at the wedding.)

second time buying this.......2007-03-28

i have bought this cd twice now. the first time it got stolen and i put off buying as long as i could, but it's just too good. jrb is a wonderful composer and w/ nlb and srs singing his stuff; it's just too good to pass up if you dig show tunes.

Jason Robert Brown's newest, not best........2007-01-19

Parade is fantastic in every way shape or form, its deep, emotional, full of everything, great lyrics and singers. The Last Five Years is good in every way shape or form. The concept is amazing (although it doesn't really come through unless you read the synopsis). The Lyrics really capture the internal monologues of relationships. The orchestrations are simple, which is fine for a show like this. The singers... I was surprised by. Norbert Leo Butz, has been stellar in the other shows I've heard him in, but this one has moments that make him sound amateurish. Sherie Rene Scott has an interesting voice, that sometimes sounds like it isn't being treated healthy. That really comes through in this CD, sometimes she doesn't sound very good. But overall, this is a great CD. Brown is wonderful, the singers are broadways hottest, the topics are very close to home. I would suggest this for almost everyone. Its new and edgy, but borrows some mechanics of the classics. Definitely one for collectors, and people who just started listening to musicals. Favorite Song: "Climbing Uphill"

If You Didn't Believe In Jason Robert Brown, You Should Now.......2007-01-10

Jason Robert Brown wrote a splendidly beautiful musical, semi-autobiographical, chronicling the 5 year span of a relationship. The first five minutes had me hooked. In these first five minutes, Kathy is "Still Hurting" after the torential breakup of her marriage due to many particulars including adultery. With this tender introduction to Kathy, I was immediately sucked into her world of pain, loss, and failure. "What about lies Jamie? What about things that you swore to be true?" It is a question we've all asked time and time again. The music here is outstanding as well. Brown has decided to use a piano, drum kit and a string quartet in lieu of full orchestrations. And this works very well for the cast of two characters. Brown's previous musical, the large-scale "Parade" won him accollades of acclaim from critics everywhere on his music and orchestrations. He knows how to write. After Kathy, sung to perfection Sherie Renee Scott (she has such a conversational way of singing, and not to mention seamless voice), Jamie enters the stage with samba beat singing about this "Shiksa Goddess" he's just met...and her name is Kathy! "WAIT!" I said. Didn't he just lie to her, hurt her, and isn't she still pushing through all of the aftermath of their divorce? And isn't he fine with it? It was then that I knew this was no ordinary musical. Brown has done something revolutionary on the Musical Theatre Stage. Throughout the course of the show, the characters are moving in different directions; not only in their relationship, but in time. Kathy starts at the end of the 5 year relationship and regresses to the beginning, whereas Jamie starts at the beginning of the relationship and progresses to the end. They rarely interact until their marriage, where they sing finally sing together. This is of course another beautiful duet ballad Brown has written a la "All The Wasted Time" in "Parade." In this song, they sing their vows which focus on how much they love one another despite what their fault may imply. During one of Kathy's earlier songs "See I'm Smiling," we really get a sense of how hard it can be when you can see the end of a relationship falling upon you. It's a hard song to get through, though mostly quiet as she smiles through her tears and tries to see everything as "fine." But it is not. When she finally breaks, it is because Jamie decided to go to a party celebrating his book, than take her out for her birthday. When this happens, it is some of the best writing musically and lyrically in musical theatre. The way in which the lyrics seamlessly blend into the melody making it sound as though she were really just talking; the ups and downs through the anger; the breaking point where she finally realizes it is no use. And Scott sings her heart out of it. It raised the hair on my arms.
Further into the show, we have some more beautiful melodies arise and wonderful lyrics. You never think that Brown is trying to hard to rhyme. Norbert Leo Butz has the pleasure to sing Jamie, and in "Nobody Needs to Know" we get an sense of the sadness that came with all of Jamie's fortune. He is not happy. He did love Kathy. Fame, however, tainted that and hurt him in the end. As he lies in bed with another woman, we see the regret of his loss of innocense. With his rock-belter voice, Butz pulls this off with just the right amount of self-pity, without over-indulging. The Last 5 Years is definitely one of the bright shining moments of musical theatre in the new millenium. Brown should have received much more acclaim for this, as it is not as widely known as it should.

The Last 5 Years.......2007-01-03

One of the best musicals I have ever heard. It's amazing.

Average customer rating: SO glad I bought it =] Still Billy Joel to Me Awesome collection of music Saw the show - what a memory Interesting Concept, But Originals Outshine

Movin' Out (Based on the Songs and Music of Billy Joel) (2002 Original Broadway Cast) Billy Joel , and Michael Cavanaugh Manufacturer: Sony ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Singer-Songwriters | Pop | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Live Albums | Pop | Styles | Music Singer-Songwriters | Live Albums | Pop | Styles | Music Vocal Pop | Live Albums | Pop | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music General | Live Albums | Rock | Styles | Music General | Musicals | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music General | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music General | Soundtracks | Styles | Music $9.99 and Under | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Pop | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Rock | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Soundtracks | 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 Musicals | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Similar Items: Mamma Mia! The Musical Based on the Songs of ABBA: A Decca Broadway Original Cast Recording (1999 London Cast) Hairspray (2002 Original Broadway Cast) Jersey Boys (2005 Original Broadway Cast) The Producers (2001 Original Broadway Cast) Wicked (2003 Original Broadway Cast) ASIN: B00006LWQK Release Date: 2002-10-15

Tracks:

1. Scenes from an Italian Restaurant
2. Movin' Out (Anthony's Song)
3. Reverie (Villa D'Este)
4. Just the Way You Are
5. The Longest Time
6. Uptown Girl
7. This Night
8. Summer, Highland Falls
9. Waltz #1 (Nunley's Carousel)
10. We Didn't Start the Fire
11. She's Got a Way
12. The Stranger
13. Elegy for the Fisherman
14. Invention in C Minor
15. Angry Young Man
16. Big Shot
17. Big Man on Mulberry Street
18. Captain Jack
19. An Innocent Man
20. Pressure
21. Goodnight Saigon
22. Air (Dublinesque)
23. Shameless
24. James
25. The River of Dreams / Keeping The Faith / Only the Good Die Young
26. The River of Dreams (live)
27. Keeping the Faith (live)
28. Only the Good Die Young (live)
29. I've Loved These Days
30. Scenes from an Italian Restaurant (Reprise)

Amazon.com

A criticism that has long dogged Billy Joel's career involves his songs' direct, heart-on-the-sleeve emotional sentiments and a musical approach that often revels in pop music's past glories instead of reacting against them. Ironically, those are the very strengths of Twyla Tharp's dialog-free pop ballet based on Joel's infectious canon of music, including his recent forays into the classical realm. This live cast recording is fueled by the piano and vocals of Michael Cavanaugh, who, backed by an ensemble handpicked by the songwriter, gooses every last drop of drama from Joel's already theatrical songs with a verve worthy of the legend himself. But divorced from Tharp's always kinetic choreography, and despite angular reworkings of "We Didn't Start the Fire" and other Joel standards, it's a collection that sometimes sounds akin to Joelmania: not really Billy, but an incredible simulation. --Jerry McCulley

Customer Reviews:

SO glad I bought it =].......2007-06-08

I never got the chance to see this musical on Broadway, so I bought the the CD - I absolutely love Billy Joel, and really like the musical! The CD came in brand new condition. Very happy with my purchase =]

Still Billy Joel to Me.......2007-03-29

I still have to warm up to the guys voice a bit, but the music is awesome. It's amazing how well this music transitions and blends together. There was also a couple of things that got me by surprise. We Didn't Start the Fire is really different, and shows just what his music can do. I'm a little disappointed that Only The Good Die Young didn't get more appreciation, but none the less it still rocks.

Awesome collection of music.......2007-03-09

I saw the show and it was one of the greatest show ever, highly entertaining, great collection of music, as you listen to each song, you can actually imagine the show being played over and over, 5 stars!

Saw the show - what a memory.......2006-08-25

I love Broadway and grew up on the Piano Man (no I am a Chicagoan and haven't yet seen anything on New York's Broadway). This show did justice to both an now I listen to the CD to re-live the event!

Interesting Concept, But Originals Outshine.......2006-07-12

In anticipation of seeing this show, I picked up a copy of the cast cd. The orchestrations were crisp and Michael Cavanaugh's voice was quite good as the "piano man". Best Tracks include:

Scenes From An Italian Restaurant
Movin' Out
We Didn't Start The Fire
Goodnight Saigon

But after attending the show in Chicago last weekend, it was clear that the focal point is (and should be) Twyla Tharp's amazing choreography and the music merely forms a quaint storyline as background. And now? I'd just rather hear Mr. Joel's original versions instead.

Average customer rating:

Deep Still Blue CD and DVD (DVD for Region 1) 2002 Manufacturer: Gemini Sun Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | New Age | Styles | Music Meditation | New Age | Styles | Music Relaxation | New Age | Styles | Music Similar Items: The Emerald Way Legends Series: Timeless Myths and Legends This Moment Now Chrysalis ASIN: B000OONOX2 Release Date: 2007-05-08

Tracks:

1. Where the Stars and Moon Play 4:23
2. When I See You Again 4:41
3. Deep Still Blue 5:05
4. An Ocean Apart 4:21
5. Sarah's Rainbow 4:02
6. Little Angel 5:06
7. Setting Sail 4:32
8. Summer's End 5:07

Tracks:

1. Where the Stars and Moon Play set to the photography of Susan Saibara
2. When I See You Again set to the photography of Susan Saibara
3. Deep Still Blue set to the photography of Susan Saibara
4. An Ocean Apart set to the photography of Susan Saibara
5. Sarah's Rainbow set to the photography of Susan Saibara
6. Little Angel set to the photography of Susan Saibara
7. Setting Sail set to the photography of Susan Saibara
8. Summer's End set to the photography of Susan Saibara
9. Sweet Dreams set to the photography of Susan Saibara
10. The Voyage Home set to the photography of Susan Saibara

Amazon.com

The ninth career release from 2002 (the husband-wife team of Randy and Pamela Copus) is a sight-and-sound combo that includes a DVD gallery of splendid underwater photography (with the duo's music lending a dreamy, state-of-wonder audio backdrop) and a separate, music-only CD. The DVD, which slowly pans across dozens of colorful, otherworldly stills captured by unheralded photographer Susan Saibara, can provide some head-turning wallpaper for a computer screen or a wide-screen flat-panel monitor. The music, meanwhile, is a pleasant enough endeavor, though after a while it becomes apparent the duo has stirred an excess of stardust into these compositions. At their best, 2002 have used their soft, ethereal blend of electronics, acoustic guitar, flute, pennywhistle, and Pamela Copus's Enya-clone voicings to venture out (though never too far out) into the safer, gentler realms of the cosmos. On this disc, after an inviting opening track, several selections thereafter sound as though they have been touched by Tinkerbell's wand a few times too often, diminishing their stand-alone appeal. Pretty music, yes; but perhaps because it exists here principally to embellish many delicate visual images, it seems a bit too pretty on occasion. --Terry Wood

Album Description

Includes both audio CD and DVD video with artist interviews and special features! It has been said they have achieved greatness - it is true. Pamela and Randy Copus, the duo known as 2002, have graced the Billboard charts for over 264 weeks! With Deep Still Blue, their ninth full release, they return with their signature sound - romantic themes, opulent string arrangements, piano, acoustic guitar, harp, and flute combined with lush vocal textures. This beautifully orchestrated CD and DVD Audio Visual Connect Series(tm) sets the 2002 trademark sound adrift in an ocean of majesty whilst exploring the exquisite underwater photography of Susan Saibara. Join 2002 as they unveil the mystery of Deep Still Blue enabling a new-found respect for our world's oceans and reefs.

Average customer rating: La Mancha Right On Man of La Mancha A Great "Don Quixote" I preferred this version Stirring

Man of La Mancha (2002 Broadway Revival Cast) Brian Stokes Mitchell , Stephen Bogardus , Mark Jacoby , Mary-Elizabeth Mastrantonio , Mitch Leigh , Joe Darion , and Ernie Sabella Manufacturer: RCA Victor Broadway ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Musicals | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music General | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music General | Soundtracks | Styles | Music Musicals | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Similar Items: Man of La Mancha Brian Stokes Mitchell South Pacific in Concert from Carnegie Hall Kiss Me, Kate (1999 Broadway Revival Cast) Man of La Mancha: A Decca Broadway Original Cast Album (Original 1965 Broadway Cast) ASIN: B00007GZM1 Release Date: 2003-01-07

Tracks:

1. Opening (Olga Merediz with Don Mayo, Brian Stokes Mitchell, Stephen Bogardus)
2. Man of La Mancha (I, Don Quixote) (Brian Stokes Mitchell, Ernie Sabella)
3. It's All the Same (Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio, Muleteers)
4. Dulcinea (Brian Stokes Mitchell, Muleteers)
5. I'm Only Thinking of Him (Natascia Diaz, Olga Merediz, Mark Jacoby with Brian Stokes Mitchell)
6. We're Only Thinking of Him (Stephen Bogardus, Natascia Diaz, Mark Jacoby, Olga Merediz)
7. I Really Like Him (Ernie Sabella with Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio)
8. What Does He Want of Me? (Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio)
9. Little Bird, Little Bird (Bradley Dean, Gregory Mitchell, Muleteers)
10. Barber's Song (Jamie Torcellini)
11. Golden Helmet of Mambrino (Brian Stokes Mitchell, Ernie Sabella, Jamie Torcellini, Muleteers)
12. To Each His Dulcinea (To Every Man His Dream) (Mark Jacoby with Stephen Bogardus)
13. The Impossible Dream (The Quest) (Brian Stokes Mitchell)
14. Knight of the Woeful Countenance (Don Mayo, Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio, Ernie Sabella with Brian Stokes Mitchell)
15. Aldonza (Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio with Brian Stokes Mitchell)
16. The Knight of the Mirrors (Stephen Bogardus & Brian Stokes Mitchell) (2:12)17. I'm Only Thinking of Him (reprise) (Orchestra)
17. A Little Gossip (Ernie Sabella with Mark Jacoby)
18. Final Sequence: The Death of Alonso Quijana; Dulcinea (reprise); The Impossible Dream (The Quest) (reprise); Man of La Mancha (I, Don Quixote) (reprise); The Psalm (Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio, Brian Stokes Mitchell, Ernie Sabella, Mark Jacoby)
19. Finale (Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio, Mark Jacoby, Bradley Dean & Company with Frederick B. Owens)

Amazon.com

Brian Stokes Mitchell belongs to a rarefied species: a male lead who can steal scenes from his female counterparts in a Broadway musical. As if his impossibly rich and evocative voice weren't enough, Mitchell is a charismatic actor who inhabits his roles with panache. After turns in Kiss of the Spider Woman, Ragtime, and Kiss Me, Kate, he is back in the popular 1965 show about Cervantes and his fictional alter ego, Don Quixote. The show has become a bit creaky over the years. The revival probably wouldn't have a chance without Mitchell, and he does turn in a spectacular performance. Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio's Aldonza feels a bit forced--compare the smooth way in which Mitchell's songs flow with her sometimes choppy delivery--but she also possesses a welcome old-timey quality, never more so than in "What Does He Want from Me?" As for "The Impossible Dream (The Quest)," well, Mitchell injects something that feels emotionally fresh into the chestnut. And that may be the greatest achievement of all. --Elisabeth Vincentelli

Customer Reviews:

La Mancha Right On.......2007-07-15

It is everything I hoped for. Arrived quickly and in perfect condition. Just you would hope for when you are dealing with number one. I have used Amazon in the past and I certainly will again.

Man of La Mancha.......2007-05-18

I have listened to several versions of Man of La Mancha over the years and at last have found one that lives up to all my expectations. Brian Stokes Mitchell's interpretation of the words of the songs, together with a great voice, is second to none. The final sequence and finale brought me to tears. The magnificent song 'The Impossible Dream' has been murdered by many singers in the past but finally here is one who has brought all the meaning and emotion to the fore.
The other cast members too, did a brilliant job.

A Great "Don Quixote".......2007-04-20

I have been a fan of the "Man of La Mancha" for years. I love the songs and the message, even if the story-line is a bit awkward. It is great story that deals with hope, faith and idealism. The music is wonderful evoking Old Spain, but also with lyrics that are profound in the emotions and dreams that are captured.

I only knew of Brian Stokes Mitchell from a minor role he played on "Trapper John M.D." back in the 1980s (at first I didn't realize that it was the same guy). Mitchell and company do a fantastic job of bringing this narrative to life. I found the new introduction to be very imaginative and it captured a sense of fire: the fire of Don Quixte's idealism and Dulcenia's fire of passion and pain.

Comparisons: Original Broadway Cast; Jim Nabors as Don Quixote; Placido Domingo as Don Quixote

I preferred this version.......2006-10-02

Having heard both the Original Cast and Revival Cast recordings--and having seen Stokes Mitchell perform the play on Broadway--I prefer this version. As someone else pointed out, the Kiley version sounds too "operatic." To me, the Original Cast version also sounds more measured and "intentional," and thus less passionate, spontaneous, and real.

Along with other reviewers, I feel Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio has been bashed unfairly: as someone else mentioned, when it seems like her voice is struggling it's because her character is struggling. It is this overall verisimilitude that makes the Revival Cast more appealing to me.

And, yeah, Stokes Mitchell is brilliant as Don Quixote.

Stirring.......2006-06-19

If I could give it ten out of five stars, I would. The music itself is absolutly stirring; every time I listen I get chills. To top it, this cast is phenonminal. Brian Strokes-Mitchell (Don Quioxte) has a voice that is nigh indescribable. Beautiful is too mild a word for his rich, deep timbre. The origional broadway cast is good, but this is AMAZING. The cast sings with such passion and emotion that goes strait to your heart (especially "Aldonza" and "The impossible dream"). I cannot urge you strongly enough to make this album your own RIGHT NOW!

Story: This is a beautiful story about an elderly scholar who goes insane and thinks he is a knight's errent. He is something of a Christ figure (I think so, anyway. Especially from the lyrics of "impossible dream") who lifts up everyone around him to something better. He falls in love with a hore (Aldonza) whom he calls Dulcinea, and totes around his squire (Sancho) who is really a homeless guy, or something. He encourages everyone he comes across to be noble and fiind the glory in themselves; he sees their potential rather than their current state.

AMAZING!

Average customer rating: It is what it is! Very etheral entry from 2002 A gentle respite Music of Dreams and Stars Ok, Not Bad At All

The Emerald Way 2002 Manufacturer: Real Music ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | New Age | Styles | Music Meditation | New Age | Styles | Music Relaxation | New Age | Styles | Music Similar Items: This Moment Now Chrysalis Deep Still Blue CD and DVD (DVD for Region 1) Across an Ocean of Dreams Sacred River ASIN: B000DN5VLW Release Date: 2006-01-31

Tracks:

1. Inner Light
2. Another Answer Came
3. Remember Now
4. The Emerald Way
5. Overheard in a Dream
6. Soul Doors
7. Unopened Flower
8. Timeless
9. Traveler Winds
10. Secret Shores

Amazon.com

A serene, gently atmospheric, and cohesive package, The Emerald Way may be, end to end, the most satisfying of the eight recordings released so far by the husband-and-wife team of Pamela and Randy Copus, known as 2002. The pair specialize in creating pillow-soft, melodic dreamscapes that could be fairly termed Enya-lite. What gives The Emerald Way its particular appeal is the duo's willingness to probe a little deeper into the cosmos, giving this disc a boost over This Moment Now, 2002's previous release, which at times is too dainty for its own good. Stardusted selections here such as "Soul Doors," "Timeless," and the title track exhibit yearning, searching qualities that seem capable of elevating the spirit as well as soothing it, which seems to be the duo's usual aspiration. This is not serious space music, of course. Rather, it is a gentle-on-the-ear mix of keyboards, guitar, strings, flute, pennywhistle, and female voicings intended to evoke a heart-lifting state of calm--soundtrack-like music suited for relaxed moments when you're mentally rolling the closing credits on a benign daydream. --Terry Wood

Album Description

Inspired by a tale from Sri Aurobindo, this album is about choosing to follow the path of the heart. Soulful flutes, silky guitar and piano tell the story, accompanied by lush strings, harp and chimes blending into 2002's signature sound, renowned for comfort and deep relaxation.

Customer Reviews:

It is what it is!.......2007-05-17

When I first listened to this fabulous assortment of music, I was really touched. I myself, read reviews saying how wonderful, serene and peaceful this music was, and how wonderful it made them feel, so I purchased it. I can truly say whithout any hesitation, that it is truly a work of art and I find it very relaxing to have it in my car and heard while driving, to keep me relaxed and focused in a calm state. I thank the authors of this wonderful assortment for thier accumulation of peace in the gentle sounds of music! Bravo and please keep up the great work.. It does have a celtic feel in a peaceful and calming way, and I would highly recommend it to all who search for that sound.
JA

Very etheral entry from 2002.......2007-01-08

This is a more meditative entry from 2002. Now, I own only two of their albums "This moment now" and "land of forever" so I'm not an expert on their music but this is much a background piece than the two albums I already own. Very nice, though.

A gentle respite.......2006-08-06

Get your warm tea, a confortable spot or position, and prepare for a peacful departure to a quiet and gentle place. A must for you musical library. I have over 450 cd's of this "type" of music and it ranks near the very top!!

Music of Dreams and Stars.......2006-07-01

Stumbled across this CD and purchased it for no other reason than the cover art and titles of the the songs intrigued me. I'd never heard of 2002 before but was delighted with the serendipity of the purchase - this CD is amazing. I've since bought "The Sacred Well" and plan on aquiring their earlier works in time. Their music is like a "music lasagne" - layers on layers of misty melody and counterpoint, complimenting each other but soulful enough to stand on their own. How music can be so relaxing yet so compelling I don't know, but I tip my hat to Pamela and Randy for mastering it.

Ok, Not Bad At All.......2006-02-14

I am a big fan of 2002, and have 7 of their albums. I can say that The Emerald Way is not their best work, but it still is pretty good. It is just that I like their other albums better, namely Chrysalis, River of Stars, This Moment Now, Land of Forever, and Across an Ocean of Dreams. One thing that they did different on this album is they have pronounced vocal effects on the voice on track 3. It works. I have given the album 5 stars instead of 4 because even when 2002 is not at their best they still manage to create wonderful music. If you have their other albums and want even more 2002, it would be safe to explore this album.

Average customer rating: A Very Good Live Set by Paul McCartney The live show dilemma Great band feeling. Superb performance Awful Live Recording

Back in the U.S. Live 2002 Paul McCartney Manufacturer: Capitol ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music General | Pop | Styles | Music Soft Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music General | Adult Contemporary | Pop | Styles | Music Vocal Pop | Live Albums | Pop | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music General | Live Albums | Rock | Styles | Music Album-Oriented Rock (AOR) | Classic Rock | Styles | Music General | Live Albums | Classic Rock | Styles | Music Similar Items: Paul McCartney - Back in the U.S. (Live 2002 Concert Film) Unplugged (The Official Bootleg) Tripping the Live Fantastic Paul Is Live Driving Rain ASIN: B00006LSOG Release Date: 2002-11-26

Tracks:

1. Hello Goodbye
2. Jet
3. All My Loving
4. Getting Better
5. Coming Up
6. Let Me Roll It
7. Lonely Road
8. Driving Rain
9. Your Loving Flame
10. Blackbird
11. Every Night
12. We Can Work It Out
13. Mother Nature's Son
14. Vanilla Sky
15. Carry That Weight
16. The Fool On The Hill
17. Here Today
18. Something

Tracks:

1. Eleanor Rigby
2. Here, There And Everywhere
3. Band On The Run
4. Back In The USSR
5. Maybe I'm Amazed
6. C Moon
7. My Love
8. Can't Buy Me Love
9. Freedom
10. Live And Let Die
11. Let It Be
12. Hey Jude
13. The Long And Winding Road
14. Lady Madonna
15. I Saw Her Standing There
16. Yesterday
17. Sgt. Pepper/The End

Amazon.com

Critics may quibble over the creative roller coaster that's been Paul McCartney's post-Beatles solo career, but few can deny his status as one of rock's most buoyant live performers and consistent crowd pleasers. That drive to stake his claim onstage (said to be one of the factors that drove the Fabs to dissolution) energizes this otherwise largely backward-looking collection of performances from his 2002 world tour; fully two-thirds of the double-disc's 35 tracks hail from the Beatles catalog, with the rest slanted toward early solo-career standouts like "Jet," "Maybe I'm Amazed," and "My Love." But Mac and his focused backing quartet deliver them with a punchy edge and sense of abandon that's largely MIA on previous McCartney live releases. Other than pausing for tributes to his fallen comrades ("Here Today," a solo acoustic paean to John Lennon followed by a touching, ukulele-backed nod to George Harrison with "Something"), it's largely a rollicking career retrospective from a musician whose restless drive to perform invests this collection with something more than mere nostalgia. The singer who invoked Bach at 22 may still refuse to act his age, but here that's not a bad thing at all. --Jerry McCulley

Album Description

Double live CD includes 35 classic McCartney and Beatles songs from his sold out US tour. CD packaging includes 2 CDs in a slimline jewel box and a 32-page four color annotated collector's booklet featuring never before seen photographs from the tour. Capitol. 2002.

Customer Reviews:

A Very Good Live Set by Paul McCartney.......2007-06-15

By the year 2000, Paul McCartney's place in music history was long cemented. Whether you look at McCartney's work with the Beatles, Wings, or even as a solo artist - he really doesn't have much more to prove. There was even that time in the mid-1980s when McCartney's solo career hit a bump in the road both critically and professionally - then thanks to a songwriting partnership with Elvis Costello, McCartney bounced back with his magnificent effort "Flowers in the Dirt". Upon proving he could launch the comeback, McCartney didn't fade into oblivion. The comeback helped McCartney help regain the commercial success and critical acclaim that seemed to be lost when he hit that bump in the road. By the time 2002, rolled around, McCartney would put out another successful album - "Driving Rain" and embarked on a subsequent tour. The album "Back in the U.S. - Tour 2002" provides a very good snapshot of the material that McCartney would cover during that 2002 tour. It also provides a collection of live material by McCartney spanning a 5 decade period consisting of his Beatles work, Wings material, and his solo work - most definitely t the longest span of live material of any McCartney live collection.

"Back in the U.S. - Tour 2002" is not the first live album by McCartney. Here are some highlights:
* "Wings Across America": This was the only live album released under the Wings umbrella. It was released in 1976 and consists of a mix of McCartney's Beatles and post-Beatles material.
* "Tripping the Fantastic Live": A 1990 release that covers Beatles material through material done on 1989's "Flowers in the Dirt". It also consists of covers such as Fats Domino's "Aint that a Shame".
* "Unplugged": A 1991 live set of stripped-down, acoustic versions of McCartney's material as well as covers.
* "Paul is Live": A 1993 live album in support of his "Off the Ground" album. Mostly Beatles, McCartney solo material, and covers. There is very little Wings material here.

This is a terrific set. Here are 10 points to take from this set.

1.While the liner notes don't say it, I believe it is safe to assume that the material is taken from many nights throughout that 2002. For the most part - there is something magical about hearing a great performance on a single night captured on a collection. I find that taking live songs from different concerts on different nights, the flow is disrupted. You also don't get the opportunity to hear the CD as if it were the concert preventing you from getting the full experience. However, this collection does a nice job at getting as close to creating a single night experience as possible.

2.While the music is outstanding, I would have liked more in terms of dialogue with the audience. I've seen McCartney in concert and he really connects with the audience. It would have been nice to hear some of that in the collection.

3.I like how the collection starts with "Hello Goodbye" and ends with "Sgt Peppers/The End". These were almost the perfect "start" and "end" songs for this collection.

4.McCartney assembles a terrific band for this tour consisting of Rusty Anderson on guitars, Paul "Wix" Wickens on keyboards, Brian Ray on bass, and Abe Laboriel Jr. on drums. McCartney alternates between guitars, bass, and piano throughout the concert. The top-notch band really helps add to the electricity of the performance. Most notable is Laboriel Jr.'s performance on the drums. Laboriel Jr. might be the best drummer in the world that many people don't know about. His drums are thundering throughout the concert. On the final track "The End" he is completely worthy of the epic drum solo in that song. As much as I love Ringo Starr - Laboriel Jr. is the better drummer.

5.As mentioned, McCartney alternates between guitar, bass, and piano. McCartney - as he typically does will structure his concert around a guitar set, an acoustic (i.e "unplugged" set), and a piano/keyboard set. The best set is McCartney's piano/keyboard set that comes up at the end of the concert. I do admit, the acoustic set is a bit on the long side.

6.Perhaps the most interesting song is McCartney's "Ukulele" version of George Harrison's legendary Beatles contribution "Something". This is part of the acoustic set. Despite the stripped down version of the song, McCartney is able to convey the power and emotion that this song is so rich in.

7.There is a lot of material on here - 35 songs, but of course there is a lot of material missing. It is almost impossible to get everything on this collection. I would have liked to have seen "Flowers in the Dirt" material, but that is available on "Tripping the Fantastic Live". One could easily Monday Morning Quarterback and say they would want songs like "With a Little Luck", "Silly Love Songs", "Michelle", etc.

8-Other noteworthy performances on the collection are "Maybe I'm Amazed", "Live and Let Die", "Let Me Roll It", "The Fool on the Hill", "Back in the USSR", and "Eleanor Rigby". There are no bad songs on this collection - everything is quality.

9.If you haven't heard McCartney do "Hey Jude" live, you must hear it. McCartney creates a true performance in which he gets everyone in attendance involved. While the version on this album is not as good as the performance on the "Live in Red Square DVD", this version will still give you a good feel for how he gets the audience involved.

10.The liner notes consist of write-ups by McCartney and each of the band members reflecting on the tour. This is really good stuff.

Overall this is an extremely good collection by McCartney - and it might be the strongest one when compared to the other McCartney live collections that are out there. If you are looking to get hold of McCartney live material, this is the place to start.

The live show dilemma.......2007-03-19

This aural souvenir of Paul McCartney's 2002 American tour gets only a middling rating.

The playlist on BACK IN THE U.S. is nothing less than spectacular; performances are better than competent-- McCartney is in good voice and the backup's right-on with their renderings of oh-so-familiar tunes. Paul's occasional lyric lapses are forgivable, and because of tight editing, crowd noise isn't much of a distraction. So what's wrong with this album?

Simply put: it's not all that easy to listen to, mainly due to a too-high volume level. Even gentle songs like "Yesterday," "Here, There And Everywhere," "Mother Nature's Son," "Eleanor Rigby" and "Fool On The Hill" are unpleasantly harsh because they're just TOO LOUD. And the supposed-to-be-loud songs are quite deafening.

Live albums invite such criticisms, and more. If the musicians choose to reinterpret old favorites, the cry of "Blasphemy! How dare they!" is heard, and if they remain as faithful to the studio tracks as possible, then the complaint is "you may as well stick with the originals." It's a no-win.

Being at a great live performance is exciting for the audience, yet a transcription of the same show rarely captures the acoustics, the feel or the mood. Such is the case here. To be fair, this is as fine a Paul McCartney live album as he's ever released. But that only means all of them are in some way flawed.

TOTAL RUNNING TIMES --
DISC ONE -- 54:32
DISC TWO -- 60:36

Great band feeling........2007-01-11

I love this cd for the super sounds expressed.
The band is extremely in harmony with the McCartney point of view.
Tracks are very similar to the original feeling.
I prefer the Wings and the McCartney discography that the Beatles discography and anyway this CD contains much Beatles songs than McCartney and Wings.

You can't loose "Jet", "Let me roll it", "Coming up" and more.
Superlatives!!!!!!!!!

Yes maybe the sound mix is not perfect - I'm not competent - but the spirit of the music there is in large quantity.

Superb performance.......2007-01-11

If you had to take one Live McCartney CD with you on a desert island this would be it.
There are the obligatory Hey Jude, Let It Be, Live and Let Die, etc... along with enough songs that he'll probably only play once (Hello Goodbye, Lonely Road, Mother Nature's Son, Getting Better, Something,...) to make it all worthwhile.
Although McCartney is usually true to the original studio version, he mixes things up enough to make the concert interesting. "Something" on the ukelele, We Can Work it Out on a simple guitar, Carry that Weight on a plain piano, Sgt Pepper blended with the Abbey Road medley, etc...
The only "ouch" is Freedom, the If I Had A Hammer 9/11 sound-a-like which borders on painful.
On the other side of the equation, you have Lonely Road - a real sleeper. One of my favorites - I'm surprised it never really caught on.
And here is heresy: Can't Buy me Love and I Saw Her Standing There sound more exciting and vibrant than on the Beatles' studio album. Even My Love - unadulterated mush on the studio version - nearly sounds good as a result of McCartney's remarkable vocal gyrations.
People will listen to this concert 100 years from now and say "wow".

Awful Live Recording.......2006-07-22

The recording of this live music is one of the worst I've ever heard and rivals the quality on some bootlegs. The guitars are way up and overpower everything else, including Paul's voice. There's no transition between the songs - just wait 3 seconds and the next one starts. Amateurish is the best way to describe this effort.

Dance Music:

1. A.K.A. Petey Wheatstraw [Explicit Lyrics]
2. Ain't Nutt'n [Explicit Lyrics]
3. All Good Things... [Explicit Lyrics]
4. All That
5. Ascension
6. Ascension
7. Back to Da Streets [Explicit Lyrics]
8. Behind Closed Doors: Da Soundtrack [Explicit Lyrics] [Soundtrack]
9. Brace 4 Impak [Explicit Lyrics]
10. Chicano Brown & Proud [Enhanced] [Explicit Lyrics]

Dance Music

dance music

Dance Music

XII [Extra tracks] [Original recording remastered] [Import]

Breathe Like a Bull

Dose Cubs Can Do It!

Waves From Albert Ayler [Original recording remastered]

Smooth Classical

Cover You with a Kiss

Elaine Paige

Dance Suite/Hungarian Pictures/2 Pictures

Everglades Trail

Early Stan

firefly

Entities

Cantares de Mi Pueblo

The Complete Recordings Of Chopin

Rub Harder