Both Sides [Explicit Lyrics]

1. Knocking - Macho, Macho Ortega, , The Tunnel Rats

2. Soldier - Propaganda, , , The Tunnel Rats

3. Lif Get U Down - The Tunnel Rats

4. Texas Holdem - Macho, Macho Ortega, , The Tunnel Rats

5. On the Grid - Macho, Macho Ortega, Propaganda, , The Tunnel Rats

6. Passion - Donny, Macho, Macho Ortega, The Tunnel Rats

7. Freedom - Macho, Macho Ortega, Propaganda, , The Tunnel Rats

8. I Heard - Propaganda, , The Tunnel Rats

9. That's What's Up - Propaganda, , , , The Tunnel Rats

10. Black Hole - Avila Brothers, The Tunnel Rats

Both Sides,The Tunnel Rats,Thump Records,Pop,Rap,Rap & Hip-Hop,Underground Rap,United States of America,West Coast Rap

Average customer rating: Wonderful melodies Hayley Westenra - Odyssey Very soothing very good pop singer voice Voice & level head deserve high marks

Odyssey Hayley Westenra Manufacturer: Decca ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Folk | Styles | Music Australia & New Zealand | International | Styles | Music Folk Songs | Songs & Lieder | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music General | Vocal Pop | Pop | Styles | Music Orchestral Pop | Easy Listening | Pop | Styles | Music General | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music The Decca Records Store | Specialty Stores | 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 Classical | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music International | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music All Blowout Music | Blowout Music | Stores | Music $9.99 and Under | Prices | Blowout Music | Stores | Music More Titles at Least 25% Off | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Celtic Treasure Hayley Westenra - Live From New Zealand Lisa Celtic Woman - A New Journey: Live at Slane Castle, Ireland Walking in the Air ASIN: B000AXWHPI Release Date: 2005-10-18

Tracks:

1. Prayer
2. Both Sides Now
3. Never Saw Blue
4. Dell' Amore Non Si Sa
5. What You Never Know (Won't Hurt You)
6. May It Be
7. Quanta Qualia
8. You Are Water
9. She Moves Through the Fair
10. My Heart Belongs To You - Hayley Westenra
11. Ave Maria
12. I Say Grace

Album Description

Hayley Westenra's new album Odyssey was always going to be a different proposition to Pure, the record-breaking 2003 collection which marked her international debut. A lot has happened to the young New Zealander over the past two or three years--and those changes are clearly reflected by a record which encapsulates her growth from a budding teenage prodigy into a mature young woman.

Now, at 18, Hayley is ready to show the world how much she has grown up, both as an artist and as an individual. Fans of Pure will be pleasantly surprised by her new album. Her wonderful voice retains its crystal-clear purity, but Westenra's singing is now richer and more rounded than before. Touring the world and singing in some of its greatest concert venues, such as the Sydney Opera House, Royal Albert Hall, and Carnegie Hall, has worked wonders for her confidence. Suitably emboldened, she has embraced an even wider range of musical styles including classical, hymns, folk and pop.

"I was happy with Pure at the time, but I've moved on so much," says Hayley. "It's really exciting to have something new out there for people to listen to. I wanted to make a record that represented me as a person. And I think I've improved as a vocalist."

Variety is certainly one of the keywords with Hayley's new album. When she first entered a recording studio in New Zealand as a 12-year-old, Westenra restricted herself to classical pieces and show tunes. Now, in addition to impressive takes on classical works, Hayley uses her new album to perform an inspired cover of Joni Mitchell's "Both Sides Now" and has arranged and written much of the material. "I like to push myself, and I'm now confident enough to try different things. I have been much more involved behind the scenes with this album--I wanted to put my individual stamp on each song."

With her career stretching out promisingly before her, Hayley is also keen to continue experimenting. She is still primarily a classical crossover artist but she also wants to keep broadening those musical horizons. Three years after her international debut CD, Hayley Westenra is still pure: she exudes pure quality and she remains pure class--but her musical journey continues with her new album Odyssey.

Customer Reviews:

Wonderful melodies.......2007-06-08

This is a wonderful CD with beautiful melodies. Hayley Westenra has a very pure voice and sings right on key. The melodies are very relaxing and the musical settings are well arranged.

Hayley Westenra - Odyssey.......2007-06-08

Pure, crystalline, angelic voice. Gorgeously produced. "Prayer" is stunning. "Both Sides Now" wonderful. The rest is good but not her best song selection. When I first heard this girl on the "Celtic Woman" tour I was totally blown away. None of her CDs will disappoint!

Very soothing.......2007-05-14

Hayley Westenra's Odyssey is a very beautiful CD. If you switch on your walkman and listen to the CD's tracks non-stop, you'll soon feel like you're flying in Heaven. It's very soothing and heavenly. It calms you down, without causing you to feel lonely or sad because you're listening to it in solitary, like other vocal or classical songs do sometimes.

I would definitely recommend it to anyone interested. Quanta Qualia and Ave Maria are my most favourite tracks. Quanta Qualia is pure magic! I really feel as if I'm flying in Heaven when I listen to it.

very good pop singer voice.......2007-05-13

the selections were tasteful and varied. the singer has a very good pop singer voice. i would have liked some voice variation between songs. all were sung in exactly the same style. good singing but without tonal variation the disk tends to be bland. i hope that as she gets more exposure she will vary her voice to make the songs stand out individually instead of letting them blend into one song on the disc. i would rate this 5 stars except for that major fault.

Voice & level head deserve high marks .......2007-04-20

Not only has Hayley Westenra's voice remained "pure", but her good sense and sensibilty has stayed intact when so many similar young performers have gone over the deep end with extreme behavior and disreputable remarks. On this CD Miss Westernra covers a number of songs in her own special style, such as excellent versions of "Prayer", "May It Be" and "Both Sides Now". I hope to hear her renditions of more such tunes, old and new. I would like to hear her sing songs like "Yesterday", "I Still Believe in Love" and All I Know. She has a way with her soaring vocals that never lets the listener down.

Average customer rating: A Different Perspective, Now Sounds like a musical Joni Mitchell does Jazz Standards Go straight to Travelogue Lovely love album

Both Sides Now Joni Mitchell Manufacturer: Warner Bros / Wea ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Singer-Songwriters | Pop | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Contemporary | Vocal Pop | Pop | Styles | Music Folk Rock | Rock | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Similar Items: Love Actually Blue Hits Court and Spark Clouds ASIN: B000040OVH Release Date: 2000-03-21

Tracks:

1. You're My Thrill
2. At Last
3. Comes Love
4. You've Changed
5. Answer Me, My Love
6. A Case Of You
7. Don't Go To Strangers
8. Sometimes I'm Happy
9. Don't Worry 'Bout Me
10. Stormy Weather
11. I Wish I Were In Love Again
12. Both Sides Now

Amazon.com

Joni Mitchell has long dabbled in the jazz world, forging alliances with the likes of Charles Mingus, Jaco Pastorius, and Wayne Shorter, while incorporating elements of fusion into her more intrepid recordings. Both Sides Now, however, comes at jazz from a different angle than the experimental likes of Mingus and The Hissing of Summer Lawns. Here is Joni the chanteuse, tackling smoky standards such as "At Last," "Sometimes I'm Happy," and "Stormy Weather" in the embrace of lush pop arrangements that owe a debt to Nelson Riddle and Gordon Jenkins, though some stray over the line from stately into staid. The focus here is on Mitchell the vocalist, and she displays a real commitment to the music. She has the chops and the smarts to tackle these staples, but at times she seems intimidated by their illustrious pedigrees. Two of Mitchell's own songs are revived here--"A Case of You" and the title track. The results are mixed: the former takes on a new weight while the latter seems adolescent in such mature company. Ultimately, Both Sides Now is more a valentine to classic pop by a woman who can--and should--be off making more touchstones of her own. --Steven Stolder

Customer Reviews:

A Different Perspective, Now.......2007-06-21

In 2000, Joni Mitchell released "Both Sides Now," an album of jazz standards backed by a 70-piece orchestra. This was her first album release since 1998's "Taming The Tiger" and was received very well by both fans and critics alike. In fact, it was perhaps her most warmly-received album in decades with the exception of 1994's Grammy-winning "Turbulent Indigo." Twelve songs take centre stage here, ten of which are jazz standards dating back as far as 1933. The other two are Joni Mitchell originals that fit in perfectly here. That's the genius of these songs, and indeed, Joni's music; that she could include two of her own original compositions here and they don't seem out of place.

Joni's smoking habit had given her voice a lovely, velvety texture over the years which comes through brilliantly on this album. Some argue that smoking destroyed the innocence she once possessed in her earlier years. I suppose it's all a matter of opinion. When I first heard these songs I was really taken aback. The orchestra is incredibly lush, sometimes a bit jarring and takes a bit of getting used to. Once I knew this songs though I could really enjoy them and I now rank this as one of Joni's winner albums.

"You're My Thrill" opens the album. The orchestra is in full swing and opens up full screen before Joni's even sung a single note. It's like full Technicolor. This is the first I heard from the album and I'll always remember how shocked I was to begin with, but it's not my favourite. "At Last" is one of my favourites. I love how it opens, very gently like a new day breaking. Joni may have been 57 when she recorded this, but she sings it with such youthful abundance that makes her sound like a love-struck teenager. However, the subject matter, about how she's finally found love after all this time, assures us that she's a wise and mature woman. Beautiful, really beautiful. "Comes Love" is a more jazzy number. It sounds like something you'd hear on Broadway or in the West End, or from Chicago. Joni is singing about how when love comes along, nothing can be done to stop it. I love songs like this, where references are made to other things through the song, but they all lead back to the main topic; "Comes a nightmare, you can always stay awake. Comes depression, you could get another break. Comes love, nothing can be done!"

"You've Changed" is a sad song, Joni singing about how her man has changed into something else. He doesn't love her anymore, and although it's a tad hyperbolic, we feel for her. These are show tunes and they are intent on getting a reaction, and they're successful when they work. "Answer Me, My Love" is another one of my favourites. Joni definitely has much love for the originals, you can sense it in the way she interprets them herself. This song fits perfectly after the last one. In that, she was singing about how her man has changed, but in this one, she's lost the love, and is holding onto the hope that it could be found again. I'm not sure why, but I love the line, "But if you still think about me, please listen to my prayer." Something about how she sings it. "A Case Of You" comes next, the first of two Joni originals remastered here. Of course it's not as good as the original, but it's very well executed.

"Don't Go To Strangers" has one of the most beautiful, breathtaking intros of all the songs here. This is a song about always knowing where you can return if all else fails. It's a good song, but not really very memorable. "Sometimes I'm Happy" works where some other fail in that it swings with a beautiful piano solo. The songs doesn't drag one bit, it glides along and doesn't feel like dangerous easy listening territory. "Don't Worry 'Bout Me" sees Mitchell forgetting the past and looking to the future, a different side to the facade of earlier tracks that tended to mope and drag with heartache. There is a tint of sadness in this, but it's kept to a minimum and counteracted by the 'change is good' attitude. "Stormy Weather" is one of the more atmospheric numbers. Where a lot of these songs are vivid and like sonic paintings, this one goes further and takes me right into the scene. It's another great song and the orchestra doesn't burst out in irritating solos like it does on some of the other songs. "I Wish I Were In Love Again" is another brilliant song with very clever lyrics; "When love congeals, it soon reveals, the faint aroma of performing seals." The sad tone of the song is undercut by a jolly and uptempo pace. "Both Sides Now," the title track, closes the album. The second of two Joni originals, this one works much better because in its original state it is much more a jazz standard than A Case Of You could ever be.

OVERALL GRADE: 9/10

This album re-ignited interest in Joni's music and also paved the way for 2002's "Travelogue," where Joni covered 20-odd songs from her back catalogue in this orchestral style. The result was mixed; some people loved it whilst others saw it as a big mess. I have yet to own that album but I shall soon form my own opinion on it. For now, this will do. I highly recommend this album, but I'd get her earlier material first.

Sounds like a musical.......2007-05-28

It was a little bit a disappointment since I expected some acustic songs you would like to listen in a bar, but instead sound of each song is made with a big orchestra. Not so much my style.

Joni Mitchell does Jazz Standards.......2007-05-07

This is one of those albums that I used to think I could only dream about. On it I've got a full orchestra, with music arranged and conducted by my all-time favourite arranger and conductor, Vince Mendoza, a couple of solos sprinkled here and there by some of the best in the business - Wayne Shorter on soprano and tenor saxophone, Herbie Hancock on piano and Mark Isham on trumpet. The phenomenal Peter Erskine is on the drums and Chuck Berghofer is on bass. That alone would be plenty but I've also got Joni Mitchell - arguably one of the most influential vocalists of a generation - singing some of my favourite jazz standards.

I knew I was going to love this even before I heard a single note.

Although I've heard and read quite a lot about her over the years, interestingly, this is my first Joni Mitchell album. I saw her on BBC4 recently, performing in front of a live audience on a show recorded back in the early 70s. She sounded very different then. There was an eagerness, a youthful exuberance in her voice in those days, maybe residual from the optimism of the swinging 60s when people believed anything was possible, maybe simply because she was a much younger woman. She sang a version of "Both Sides Now" on the show and even though the words were the same, in many ways it sounded to me like she was singing a totally different song to the version she sings here.

Here, she sounds much more mature, much more introspective and even a little sad. Maybe she's just reflecting the mood of the songs. Old-school divas like Ella, Billie, Sarah, Dinah... even latter day popular jazz standard singers like Jane, Diana and Madeleine all tend to sound rather sad much of the time.

In any event, it works well. Mitchell's voice is soothing and the orchestration is lush. The solos, when they kick in, are immensely gratifying. Produced by Larry Klein and Joni Mitchell, my favourite and sure-fire way to enjoy this CD is to dim the lights, kick up my feet and just chill.

Go straight to Travelogue.......2007-04-20

A great session in that it established the scintillating, panoramic idea that would become Travelogue.

Sure, "A Case of You" and "Both Sides Now" are essential tracks. The rest, though ... flounders. And it's obvious why - Mitchell is not the person to subsume her superhuman intelligence and persona in other composers' worlds. Even if the tempos weren't slow and slower, Mitchell simply isn't 100% there. Why should she? The "great American songbook" is actually a few notches under her ability.

So, straight to the next album!

Lovely love album.......2006-11-17

A great compilation of songs from 1930' to 1950', all about love and how it goes in relationships between couples; JM. is at her best, accompanied by a gigantic 71 piece orchestra, with Herbie Hancock on Piano and Mark Isham on Trumpet.
JM. perfectly combines Jazz ,Classical and big bands sound with her voice releasing an amazing album.
If you feel like hearing these great old love songs with a blend of Classical and Jazz music topped by Joni Mitchell' great voice, you can't go wrong owning this CD.
Well recommended for the lovers of the genre.
If you like this CD, you surely want to check Madeleine Peyroux's new CD. titled: Half the perfect World

Average customer rating: No one is more consistent than Harper cheaper than itunes! Amazing album..very moving Ok but not great Very chill, yet intelligently political!

Both Sides of the Gun Ben Harper Manufacturer: Virgin Records Us ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Singer-Songwriters | Pop | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Adult Alternative | Pop | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Rock Jam Bands | Jam Bands | Rock | 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: Diamonds on the Inside Fight for Your Mind Pearl Jam Stadium Arcadium Burn to Shine ASIN: B000EGEKWE Release Date: 2006-03-21

Tracks:

1. Morning Yearning
2. Waiting For You
3. Picture In A Frame
4. Never Leave Lonely Alone
5. Sweet Nothing Serenade
6. Reason To Mourn
7. More Than Sorry
8. Cryin Wont Help You Now
9. Happy Everafter In Your Eyes

Tracks:

1. Better Way
2. Both Sides Of The Gun
3. Engraved Invitation
4. Black Rain
5. Gather Round The Stone
6. Please Dont Talk About Murder While Im Eating
7. Get It Like You Like It
8. The Way You Found Me
9. Serve Your Soul

Amazon.com

Split onto two discs, these 18 songs could have fit on one. It's a testament to Harper's aesthetic sensibilities that it is so configured, thereby both avoiding the scourge of the overly long album and dividing the raw, pummeling rockers from the ballads. With his band, the Innocent Criminals, he tears into such songs as "Get It While You Like It" and "Engraved Invitation" with Rolling Stones Exile-era verve. Their finely honed interplay allows the disc-closing "Serve Your Soul" to truly soar. The quieter disc makes its intentions clear from the outset, as a lightly fingerpicked guitar is enveloped by a string section. Within the two discs' separate identities there is variety and dramatic contrast, each one functioning as its own statement. Harper continues to embrace a variety of influences and genres. Lyrically his songs stretch from matters political to introspective emotions. --David Greenberger

Amazon.com

With the release of his seventh studio album, the double-disc Both Sides of the Gun, Ben Harper offers his signature mix of rock, soul, and folk music, while also venturing into new territory. "I was hoping I could come back to the root of my earlier records, the sparseness and intimacy," he says, "and also branch out further in a produced sound than ever before." From the blazing Curtis Mayfield/Stevie Wonder-style funk of "Black Rain" to the gentle sway of "Morning Yearning" to the full-on power ballad "Waiting for You," the eighteen songs on Both Sides reveal a master stylist at the peak of his game.

Special Edition includes Bonus CD featuring four alternate mixes and two live tracks.

Ben Harper Photos

More from Ben Harper

Fight for Your Mind

Diamonds on the Inside

Welcome to the Cruel World

Customer Reviews:

No one is more consistent than Harper.......2007-07-10

If there is any other artist that continues time and time again to produce quality CDs on the level of Ben Harper, please let me know. Consistently, he brings eclectic and genre transcending albums that stand alone in music today. His lyrics never fail to reach a depth that challenges the listener to go back and listen for the 50th time in order to squezze yet another drop of his insight. Simply put, Ben Harper is the prophet of our age.

cheaper than itunes!.......2007-02-09

I like this album a lot, 4 stars.

Just noticed it's cheaper here than on itunes. Dang, why not just buy the actual CD!

Amazing album..very moving.......2007-01-25

Why wouldn't you get this album? It's full of amazing songs with very powerful meaning and not to mention the genius behind all the songs, Ben Harper. Even if you're not a big fan of his, I think this album will convert you.

Ok but not great.......2007-01-12

I like Ben's previous work much better. But thats just my opinion.

Very chill, yet intelligently political!.......2007-01-10

It's music that you can certainly relax to - yet there is an important undertone of activism in there, as well! A great cd set!

Average customer rating: Beautiful, Inspired Great Music Great CD What exactly does he want to do? black record versus white record

Both Sides of the Gun Ben Harper Manufacturer: Virgin Records Us ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Singer-Songwriters | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music General | Blues | Styles | Music Singer-Songwriters | Pop | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Adult Alternative | Pop | Styles | Music Folk Rock | Rock | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Rock Jam Bands | Jam Bands | Rock | Styles | Music General | Rock Guitarists | Rock | Styles | Music Similar Items: Diamonds on the Inside There Will Be a Light Pearl Jam Fight for Your Mind Till the Sun Turns Black ASIN: B000EGEKWO Release Date: 2006-03-21

Tracks:

1. Morning Yearning
2. Waiting For You
3. Picture In A Frame
4. Never Leave Lonely Alone
5. Sweet Nothing Serenade
6. Reason To Mourn
7. More Than Sorry
8. Cryin Wont Help You Now
9. Happy Everafter In Your Eyes

Tracks:

1. Better Way
2. Both Sides Of The Gun
3. Engraved Invitation
4. Black Rain
5. Gather Round The Stone
6. Please Dont Talk About Murder While Im Eating
7. Get It Like You Like It
8. The Way You Found Me
9. Serve Your Soul

Tracks:

1. Gather Round The Stone (Alternate Version Mix)
2. Reason To Mourn (Alternate Mix)
3. Get It Like You Like It (Live Acoustic)
4. Waiting For You (Alternate Mix)
5. Morning Yearning (Alternate Mix)
6. Beloved One (Live)

Amazon.com

Ben Harper Photos

More from Ben Harper

Fight for Your Mind

Diamonds on the Inside

Welcome to the Cruel World

Customer Reviews:

Beautiful, Inspired.......2007-02-09

First, let me say that this album exceeds all expectations. Ben Harper has always tried something a little different with each album, and (in most cases) managed to improve on his formula. This album is the epitome of everything that I love about his music: Soulful, Inspired, and Sentimental. Don't buy into some of the more negative reviews on this page- this is Ben Harper at his best.

Both Sides of the Gun is a very SERIOUS album. Some people may have been let down by his lack of humor- for me, it was a breath of fresh air. Every song is very serious, and many have a political overtone. If you don't enjoy songs of protest- you better look somewhere else.

Disc 1 is mellow / melodic, starting with the touching "Morning Yearning". It is an exercise in simplicity / minimalism- and in this respect, I believe it is flawless. The sentimentality and nostalgia of tracks like "Morning Yearning", "Never Leave Lonely Alone" are typical of Ben's stripped down sound- but manage to surpass his previous works with an honesty that cannot be denied. Each track is overflowing with very real emotion. These are introspective, personal songs, ending with the love song: "Happy Everafter In Your Eyes", one of my personal favorites.

Disc 2 is a funk / soul. Most of these tracks are politically motivated, save "Get It Like You Like It" (the only real throw away track off this whole album). The rest of the tracks showcase Ben's versatility as a vocalist and guitarist. From his chilling scream on the final verse of "Better Way", the 70's soul of "Black Rain" (a protest against the Bush administration's failure in the Katrina incident), to Harper flawlessly flexing his Hendrix influence on the 8min, 22 seconds "Serve Your Soul", it's pure inspired experimentation.

If you're looking for a voice of love - current / future / past, Disc 1 will warm your heart.
If you're looking for an artist whose not afraid to experiment, speak his mind (politically / socially or otherwise), Disc 2 will satisfy your every need. All in all, Both Sides of the Gun is a beautiful and successful step forward for an artist who will always do what he wants to do.

Enjoy it.

Great Music.......2007-01-09

Truly a wonderful 2 disc set. Ben Harper's a great artist. This album isn't a huge departure, just further fleshes out the wide range of styles that he's been able to work with. Also, it's a ton of music, and, while not every song is a stand alone masterpiece, it's a great full double album. Just make sure you see him in concert, where he's truly one of the best!

Great CD.......2006-12-19

A friend recently gave me this CD after I discovered Ben while listening to a public radio station. It is one of the best mixes I have encountered in quite a while. The blend of different styles is wonderful as I have all too many CD's containing identical tracks which get quite boring after awhile. I have listened to this one repeatedly and find it just as good as the first time. There is a song to match whatever mood I happen to be in. Ben Harper is a treasure.

What exactly does he want to do?.......2006-05-27

Ben Harper is a very prolific musician, and has worked with everyone from Jack Johnson to Toots and the Maytals. This also causes for a problem, however; if you completely change your style on every album you do, it may be hard for people to know what to expect from you. Ben's last album, There Will Be a Light, was a gospel-flavored album due to assistance from the Blind Boys of Alabama, and it proved very good. But I can't say the same about Both Sides of the Gun.

First off, this is one of those double-disc collectives that easily could have been a single disc, especially since each disc is only about half an hour long. Sometimes the artists do that because each disc has a different vibe, but that's not the case here. Actually, it is AND it isn't: every song on here has a completely different style, which, as my title suggests, makes it hard to figure out exactly what it is that Ben is trying to do. That, and Ben himself sounds completely different on every song. The only thing that stays the same is that many of the songs follow the system of having four quick lines in the verses followed by the chorus, which consists of saying the song title four times.

And some of the lyrics aren't that great either, like "Waiting For You" (lyrics include: "I've been hoping for you/What else can I do/But keep hoping for you"). There's also "Please Don't Talk About Murder While I'm Eating", which is as bizarre as its title. And "Get It Like You Like It" makes no sense. But "Better Way" made me wish there was just that, especially since Ben is literally screaming the final verse.

Ben Harper still has skills, but maybe he shouldn't try to use ALL of them simultaneously. Buy Both Sides of the Gun only if you're a devoted fan, because after listening to it, in the words of track 7, I was more than sorry.

Anthony Rupert

black record versus white record.......2006-05-19

Es bueno dividir un album en una cara de canciones lentas y otra de rapidas? Al menos permite segmentar a su publico y no hacerle perder el tiempo escuchando lo que no le interesa. Esto es lo que ha intentado Ben Harper en el doble "Both Sides Of The Gun".
En el "disco blanco", el cantautor reune baladas de letras mas introspectivas, enclavadas en un folk adornado en ocasiones con cuerdas. El conjunto es mas bien cansino y poco dado a las sorpresas, y solo lo salva el toque soul de "Crying Won't Help You Now". Lo mejor que se puede decir es que son canciones simplemente bonitas.
Mas resulton es el "disco negro", donde Harper da rienda suelta a sus influencias con rotundo rock stoniano, sensual funk vacilon a lo Sly Stone o reivindicativo a lo Curtis Mayfield, exquisito jazz estilista, acelerado blues rock, canticos country, y exotismo psicodelico a lo Prince. En este caso, las letras tienen un contenido mas social y politico, y no faltan referencias a la tragedia de Nueva Orleans. Es tambien interesante ver como Harper ha concebido todas las canciones: a veces toca todos los instrumentos, otras se acompana de sus Innocent Criminals, o recurre a invitados como David Lindley, Charlie Musselwhite, o Michael Ward.
Algunos diran que "Both Sides Of The Gun" es un trabajo poco personal. Pero al menos, Harper carece del ego de un Lenny Kravitz, que viene a hacer lo mismo y encima nos hace creer que es obra suya.

Average customer rating: Mighty MOS! An intelligent rapper you say? Isn't that an oxymoron? amazing classic Arguably one of the best hip-hop albums ever

Black on Both Sides Mos Def Manufacturer: Priority Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD East Coast | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music General | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music Experimental Rap | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music Pop Rap | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music Similar Items: Black Star The New Danger Reflection Eternal/Train of Thought Like Water For Chocolate Quality ASIN: B00001XDNV Release Date: 1999-10-12

Tracks:

1. Fear Not Of Man
2. Hip Hop
3. Love
4. Ms. Fat Booty
5. Speed Law
6. Do It Now
7. Got
8. Umi Says
9. New World Water
10. Rock N Roll
11. Know That
12. Climb
13. Brooklyn
14. Habitat
15. Mr. Nigga
16. Mathematics
17. May-December

Amazon.com

Black on Both Sides is a manifestation of compelling, honest hip-hop. The genre's underground torchbearer, the mighty Mos Def (half of Black Star), injects intellect, humor, and knowledge into all of his rhymes. Overall, the album has an understated quality, but pure enjoyment comes with discovering the clever lyrical gems Mos drops. The expansiveness of his mindstate is showcased best on "New World Water," in which he fully limns our uses of, needs for, and exploitation of water. On "Ms. Fat Booty," a love tale with unexpected twists is woven intricately around Aretha Franklin's wailing vocals. Whether rapping, singing, or lecturing, Mos Def is firmly rooted in African American consciousness and examines social issues with great ease. Black on Both Sides will endure for many years; it's an album worthy of numerous listens. --Celine Wong

Customer Reviews:

Mighty MOS!.......2006-10-29

Don't Git' Me Don't Git Me Don't Git Git Git Git Git Me!


BROOKLYN STAND UP!

An intelligent rapper you say? Isn't that an oxymoron?.......2006-09-01

No! Mos Def proves that you can be a hip-hop artist and still be thoughtful and creative with your lyrics. In this day and age, it's almost embarrasing to admit that you like hip-hop with [c]rap like Young Joc, D4L, and T-Pain all over the radio. However, this album proves how poetic and beautiful hip-hop can be. Can you imagine somebody actually making a powerfully thought-provoking song on the simple topic of water? "New World Water" accomplishes this in a humerous and thoughtful way. "Mr. Nigga" tells how even if you have a lot of money, you'll still get no respect if your skin is dark. "Ms. Fat Booty" (Don't let the title fool you) is a love song with a creative twist, and the intro, "Fear Not Of Man", is an inspiring piece of work that will definatly make you think. "Black On Both Sides", IMHO, is arguably one of the greatest hip-hop albums of all time. If you claim to be fan of real hip-hop, go right now and buy this.

amazing.......2006-08-13

I'm a fan of all types of hip-hop. my favorites are lyrical and production masterpieces like the wu-tang clan and mobb deep, but I listen to everything from the roots and epmd to three 6 mafia and lil' wayne.

that being said, I'm not biased towards alternative hip-hop at all. in fact, I find most of it to be boring and lame, as it's usually the same old lyrics over beats that sound like they were made in 85 about how the current state of hip-hop songs is bad. but let me tell you, mos def on "black on both sides" shows that he is one of the best lyricists to hit rap. after one of my personal favorites "black star" with talib kweli produced the year before, mos def came on the solo tip with an album on the same level as "black star". the lyrics are intelligent, the beats make you feel good and the music as a whole is just perfect.

there are many top tracks on this album, such as the collabs with talib and the popular "ms. fat booty", but my favorite is the dj premier produced "mathematics". mos comes hardcore and the beat is banging.

hip-hop fans in general will find something they like on this album, but if you like the roots, talib kweli, dead prez, kanye west and common you'll fall in love instantly. don't pass this one up, it deserves a chance.

classic.......2006-07-29

This CD is a classic. Mos Def explores all topics and spits with such energy it just boggles my mind. He deserves to be on top. Get this album now!

Arguably one of the best hip-hop albums ever.......2006-05-31

It's a shame when an album like this gets overlooked in favor of 50 Cent and the rest of the lowlives that have been giving hip hop a bad name for the past decade or so. I'll take this album over just about anything else that's been released in the past ten years and gladly. No bling bling, no crotch grabbing, no posturing, no Scarface references, just true hip hop. This album harkens back to the early 90's, when rap hit it's peak in my opinion. An instant classic, this album is worth owning just for "Umi Says" and that's only one great track in a collection of many. If you like your hip hop to be legitimate, look no further.

Average customer rating: Very creative and original rap - you'll most like love it! WOOOW!!!! (He got the speakers in the trunk with the bass all krunk) HIP HOP MUSIC Music as it should be This is Hip-Hop! Dammit!

Black on Both Sides Mos Def Manufacturer: Rawkus / Umgd ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music Pop Rap | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music General | Rap & Hip-Hop | Indie Music | Stores | Music $9.99 and Under | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music All Blowout Music | Blowout Music | Stores | Music $9.99 and Under | Prices | Blowout Music | Stores | Music More Titles at Least 25% Off | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Black Star The New Danger Reflection Eternal/Train of Thought Like Water For Chocolate Quality ASIN: B000067CMV Release Date: 2002-06-04

Tracks:

1. Fear Not Of Man
2. Hip Hop
3. Love
4. Ms. Fat Booty
5. Speed Law
6. Do It Now
7. Got
8. Umi Says
9. New World Water
10. Rock N Roll
11. Know That
12. Climb
13. Brooklyn
14. Habitat
15. Mr. Nigga
16. Mathematics
17. May-December

Customer Reviews:

Very creative and original rap - you'll most like love it!.......2006-01-09

Mos Def's "Black On Both Sides" is a very appealing and very creative rap album. It definitely has a lot of heart and soul as well as deep and interesting lyrics. Mos Def is a pretty good rapper, though I wouldn't rank him as one of my favorites - he certainly gets the job done, though. What's great about this album is the lyric's honesty, the production and the fact that every song is good. In the first song Mos Def essentially says exactly what needs to be said - that YOU are the direction of hip-hop; YOU determine whether hip-hop turns into club rap garbage or meaningful music again (somehow Mos Def is the only rapper I know of to speak that truth). The lyrics are definitely the main attractor here. The production here is great - the beats are fantastic and they definitely help pull you into the songs. Mos Def himself is arguably the weakest part of the album - he may be a very good lyricist and freestyler, but his voice isn't that great. You definitely won't hate him, but you'll probably recognize it could be better. Rap fans will surely love this album (though I don't know about mainstream rap fans), and those with an open mind will probably love it too. If you liked this album I would highly recommended Black Star's "Black Star" as well as Talib Kweli's "Quality" and "Reflection Eternal. Highly recommended!

Highlights include:
the entire album!

WOOOW!!!! (He got the speakers in the trunk with the bass all krunk).......2006-01-08

Seeing the love given to Mos here gives me hope. In case you're on the fence about this disc, let me tell you: It's a classic! Do not sleep on this. Every song is rediculous. And the instrumentation is fierce, diverse, and inventive. Mos covers such topics as the poisoning of our waters (an unbeleivably funky track), the signifigance of statistics (also ill), and the World Wide discrimination of black people (a hilareous track called "Mr. N**ga"); which demonstrates Mos knows the principle John Lennon spoke of after writing "Imagine": it's good to give a little honey with the political pill.
If you like Blackstar, Talib Kweli, or Tribe Called Quest, don't sleep on this; Mos has made a special album that is in constant rotation with me and my friends. And if you havent heard Talib, Blackstar, or Tribe, do yourself a favor: pump your brakes and COP THAT DISC!

chris

HIP HOP MUSIC.......2005-08-21

It very well could be one of the best records ever made. With each listen it gets better & better. For those who don't know, Mos Def is an MC who combines his deep emotions/feelings and spits them with some ill wordplay. Highly recommended to ANYONE especially those who DON'T like rap music. It'll open your eyes!!!

Music as it should be.......2005-08-13

Not just hip hop at its best, but music at its best! If you love music, you'll love this CD. It will be considered a true classic one day!

This is Hip-Hop! Dammit!.......2005-06-29

OK, for all you Little Jon' lovin, Ying Yang Twins buyin', duckin' Cassidy's bullets in Philly doin', menstral music lovin' folks reading this, please scroll down or just leave Mos Def's page because you don't know hip-Hop! It's not about the cars, the girls, the money (though nice what they payin' y'all to act like n***a's is alot), Cristal Poppin' FOOLS! What you do does not rep the real hip hop, with a message to make you think. People like Jurassic 5, De La Soul, and the Mighty Mos Def Immortal Technique, Planet Asia etc. are what I feel reps Hip-Hop.

Average customer rating: Phil Leaves "Genesis" Behind on "Both Sides" ... But Not For Long Not given enough credit Mediocre album- Loaded with filler material Pleasantly surprised! A CD full of fun!

Both Sides Phil Collins Manufacturer: Atlantic / Wea ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Pop | Styles | Music Soft Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music General | Adult Contemporary | Pop | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music CDs $7 - $10 | Adult Contemporary | Pop | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | Adult Contemporary | Pop | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music CDs $7 - $10 | Pop Rock | Pop | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | Pop Rock | Pop | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | Oldies | Pop | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music 4-for-3 Pop | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 Rock | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 All Music | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: But Seriously Dance into the Light No Jacket Required Hello, I Must Be Going! Face Value ASIN: B000002IXB Release Date: 1993-11-09

Tracks:

1. Both Sides Of The Story
2. Can't Turn Back The Years
3. Everyday
4. I've Forgotten Everything
5. We're Sons Of Our Father
6. Can't Find My Way
7. Survivors
8. We Fly So Close
9. There's A Place For Us
10. We Wait and We Wonder
11. Please Come Out Tonight

Customer Reviews:

Phil Leaves "Genesis" Behind on "Both Sides" ... But Not For Long.......2007-07-27

This is the fifth studio release from, Phil Collins, the drummer and vocalist who collaborated with GENESIS for 20 years (1971-1991).
"Both Sides" is a bit of a step backwards from his then-latest album, "But Seriously," but this doesn't mean that it doesn't deserve a listen. I bought the disc back in 2002, roughly 10 years after it's original release date (circa. November 1993).

I had heard the single, "Everyday" back in 1994, when I was growing
up as a child in elementary school, and I had just recently purchased
the HITS collection that Phil put out in 1998/1999. "Both Sides" is an
album, which is very much like his second album, "Hello, I Must Be
Going." Like that album, this one is also pretty under-rated, with the
exception of the tracks "Both Sides ..." and "Everyday," nothing else
from the album has been given any air-time in America.

I also enjoy "Can't Find My Way" and "Can't Turn Back The Years," which
are just as good as anything on "But Seriously" or "Hello, I Must ..."
for that matter. It's just a disc that has so much to offer, and Phil
probably wasn't hoping for too much commercial success at the time.

He had just wrapped up an extensive tour with GENESIS (1992), and had
been on the road non-stop for most of the 1980's and early 1990's.
"Both Sides" remains one of my favorite Phil COllins/GENESIS releases,
and I recommend it to anyone who like's the serious side of Phil Collins
and his experimentation with new sounds during the first half of the
1990's, which was a great departure from the ever-so-popular synch-like
drum sound, which dominated his earlier solo recordings, as well as his
work with GENESIS.

Can't wait to see Phil with GENESIS in September.
They obviously won't be playing any numbers from this one, but at least
I get to hear Phil singing the like's of "Turn It On" and "No Son of Mine"

- Alexander Shuris -

Not given enough credit .......2006-03-06

I absolutely love this CD. I own every CD Phil has ever made, and this one gets played the most. I am amazed that it is one of the least hyped of all of his offerings. It's simply melodic, with lyrics that just about anyone can relate to. It's the perfect album to listen to and think, or listen to and just veg.

"We Fly So Close" is hands down the best song on this CD, with "There's a Place For Us" and "Please Come Out Tonight" coming in close behind.

This one will continue to be in my stereo on a regular basis.

Mediocre album- Loaded with filler material.......2006-01-25

I am a huge fan of Phil Collins and Genesis, but this solo album (like so many of Phil's recordings) consists of one or two radio-friendly hits combined with a boatload of fillers. As such, I cannot recommend this recording.

Collins performs much (or all) of the instrumentation on the album. The real drum work is excellent, but the incessant tambourine, synthesized percussion, and pipsqueak synthesizer solos are tiresome after several listens.

The only decent tunes on Both Sides are the two songs that received all of the airplay; those being the rather somber 'Can't turn back the years' and the pop-bubblegum hit 'Everyday'. Though lightweight, the two songs are at least well structured and pleasant. The rest of the songs on the album are strictly filler material, sounding half-baked and unfinished. Some of the tunes start out with great promise, only to fade off into long minutes of vapid monotony. In my opinion, Collins should have held off releasing this album until he had more quality material -- Two stars.

Pleasantly surprised!.......2006-01-11

This was a whole lot better than I expected! The first track, Both Sides Of The Story, I had already from the Hits album of Phil Collins. The second, third, fourth, and last track were in the Love Songs album that I have but other than those, this CD was a MAJOR success for me! I had picked this up from Barne and Nobles not expecting too much (that was the only CD of Phil I did NOT have) and paid my money...I listened through the first four tracks in my car anxiously and... fell in love with the album!! I don't understand why I didn't get it before! If you are a huge nutcase over Phil (like me) or like listening to him now and again, then this is a CD worth having in your Phil Collins collection! The music is Phil all the way plus a little extra. You've got everything in this one album, from slow easy-going love songs to upbeat drum filled songs like the first song( which is, by the way, my absolute favorite Phil Collins song!)
Definetly buy this one... SOON!!!!!

A CD full of fun!.......2005-12-08

Everything on this CD is fantastic except for I've Forgotten Everything which is too slow for me. Other than that, the CD is perfect!

Average customer rating: Simply Wonderful Music like this could make me a convert Powerful! Tenor terrific oh molly oh

The Impossible Dream Bobby Scott , Shay Healy , Frank Wildhorn , Irish Traditional , Stanislao Gastaldon , Stephen Sondheim , Rolf Lovland , Joni Mitchell , Charlie Chaplin , Brian / U2 Kennedy , Sarah McLachlan , and Proinnsias O Duinn Manufacturer: Jive ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by Porter | Porter, Cole | ( P ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Folk | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Folk Songs | Songs & Lieder | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music General | Vocal Pop | Pop | Styles | Music Classic | Vocal Pop | Pop | Styles | Music General | Soundtracks | Styles | Music Classical | Indie Music | Stores | Music Vocal Jazz | Jazz | Indie Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Ronan My Life Belongs to You The Dawning of the Day Halfway Home: My Life 'Til Now The Very Best of The Irish Tenors ASIN: B000078JM7 Release Date: 2002-11-12

Tracks:

1. The Impossible Dream (from Man of La Mancha)
2. Night and Day
3. (My Grandfather's) Immigrant Eyes
4. Isle of Hope Isle of Tears
5. He Ain't Heavy He's My Brother
6. What's Another Year
7. When I Look At You
8. My Irish Molly '0
9. Musica Prohibita
10. No One Is Alone
11. You Raise Me Up
12. Danny Boy
13. Both Sides Now
14. Smile
15. Life, Love & Happiness/I Still Haven't Found What I'm Looking For
16. Angel

Amazon.com

The term Irish tenor may be fraught with as many wrong-headed, anachronistic characterizations as any phrase in music. But Ronan Tynan not only returns here to the PBS airwaves that helped spread his fame as a member of the Irish Tenors trio, but he overturns a few clichés while delivering a live concert (recorded at the Royal Dublin Society in June 2002) that encompasses everything from Broadway and pop chestnuts to Italian operatic repertoire. Tynan rewards Irish traditions old and new (a medley of Brian Kennedy's and U2's "Life, Love & Happiness"/"I Still Haven't Found What I'm Looking For") and even makes left turns into folkie songstress territory (Joni Mitchell's "Both Sides Now," Sarah McLachlan's "Angel"). Backed by RTE Orchestra, the unlikely international star invests himself completely in all of it, his strong, crystalline voice playing off the traditions, while forging strong new bonds with the contemporary. --Jerry McCulley

Customer Reviews:

Simply Wonderful.......2005-08-29

This CD is just as great as the more recent "Ronan" CD. I clicked on 3 stars in error. This is a 5++ star album! His voice is sheer perfection, and the songs are wonderful. I also highly recommend the DVD of "The Impossible Dream," even though I didn't care at all for the London Community Choir who sing four songs. Note: The American version of the DVD doesn't have the 25-minute "Dr. Courageous" extra on it that the Irish version does. I saw him in concert last month, and besides having a voice that soars to the rafters, he is warm, funny and endearing.

Music like this could make me a convert.......2005-08-17

I've always been a rock and roll fan since back in the 60's. Listening to this cd could easily convert me into a classical music fan as well. Wow what a voice.

Powerful!.......2003-01-22

Having seen Ronan in person recently in the U.S., I was impressed first and foremost by his singing ability, and second by his stage presence and warmth. He is a special performer and human being. I am proud to be a Ronan Tynan fan.

Tenor terrific.......2003-01-18

I am not a fan of this kind of music, but I bought this after hearing a few sound snippets at amazon and WoW! what a find. Excellent song selection, powerful singing, fine music quality for a live recording. Expand your horizons and enjoy. (get this wayno)

oh molly oh.......2002-12-15

ronan tynan is a great role model for adults and children alike. he was born with a deformity and made a decision he would make something of himself, he had a goal and he surpassed it. no one puts as much of their heart into as he. he puts the audience into his songs, he makes us feel he is singing to each one of us individually. HE IS THE GREATEST IRISH TENOR I HAVE EVER HEARD, INCLUDING JOHN MC CORMAC the great irish tenor of the 30's

Average customer rating: What are some of you people talking about? 5 stars without a doubt! HIERO CLASICK (3+half) BOTH SIDES on show here......genius and flawed. I can't believe people hate this album...what's going on? Del's lyrics rip, some of the beats are s##t!

Both Sides of the Brain Del tha Funkee Homosapien Manufacturer: Hieroglyphics ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music West Coast | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music Experimental Rap | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music Pop Rap | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music Similar Items: Deltron 3030 No Need for Alarm I Wish My Brother George Was Here 3rd Eye Vision The Best of Del tha Funkee Homosapien: The Elektra Years ASIN: B00002MDOC Release Date: 2000-04-11

Tracks:

1. Time Is Too Expensive
2. If You Must
3. Jaw Gymnastics
4. Pet Peeves
5. Press Rewind
6. Offspring
7. Style Police
8. Fake As F**k
9. BM's
10. Skull & Crossbones
11. Soopa Feen
12. Disastrous
13. Signature Slogans
14. Catch All This
15. Phoney Phranchise
16. Proto Culture
17. Stay On Your Toes

Customer Reviews:

What are some of you people talking about? 5 stars without a doubt!.......2007-06-29

This album has great lyrics AND real nice beats. Some of the people who reviewed this CD talked about how this CD is lacking production. Maybe those people need to listen to the album again. Del does most of the production. Prince Paul, El-P, and A Plus, Domino, and Casual also add to the production of this CD. This Album is a Hiero Classic! Not to mention a West Coast Classic! I really can't compare it to other Del releases cause they are all great. I can say honestly that this album is like no other album you've herd before. I would like to see Del do a project with Doom, I think that would be sick.

HIERO CLASICK.......2007-03-29

If You Must is about hygeine!! Hows that for an alternatve topic? Beats are complex got you goin where is thast sample from? His homie Khaos Unique can hang with Hiero stylewise. The song Proto Culture is about import video games and systems. A lesson wrapped up in the sikkest track! The song about getting wasted drunk is so entertaining. A hip hop must. MCs need to get their stone aged thinking heads outta the gutter and create art with words not advocate violence. Del is 15 years deep in this and still a powerhouse creatively and vocally. Check Divine Forces Radio on 90.7 KPFK They ain't sleepin on Del!

(3+half) BOTH SIDES on show here......genius and flawed........2007-03-28

This is in my humble opinion the weakest of all DEL's 5 albums (including Deltron 3030). Del's lyricism has never and will NEVER be called into question, however his production here at times just isnt as sharp. Unlike what some may think Im NOT a casual listener to Del or the Hiero crews material as Ive all their solo's and group albums so I know what Im talking about. Although at times his beats are perfection next to his rhymes, at times on here it just doesnt hit its intended targets. Also his normally unreal lyrics are abit lacklustre on afew joints.(Just my opinion, dont hate on me). Tracks like "Time Is Too Expensive", "If You Must", "Style Police", "Signature Slogans", "Catch All This", "Proto Culture" and "Stay On Your Toes" suffer from either average beats or rhymes from an otherwise flawless hiphop genius. However the remaining 10 tracks are some of his finest work throughout his career. Standouts are all 10 but particularly "Jaw Gymnastics", "Press Rewind", "Fake As F**k", "Skull & Crossbones", "Soopa Feen" and "Disastrous". Excellent+must have addition to any Del/Hiero fans collection. Real lyricism at its pinnacle.

I can't believe people hate this album...what's going on?.......2006-11-02

Del's old stuff is just so dated. The production on No Need For Alarm is complex in it's creative manipulation of the sampler, and although that sound can still be relevant, you have to be a revivalist like Madlib to pull it off. Here on the other hand, Del seems to roll right off the hype he created among my friends with the track he did on the first Handsome Boy Modeling School album. I don't even think Deltron 3030 is as hot as Both Sides of the Brain, and among my friends that statement is a no-brainer and hardly debateable at all. Personally the only negative critique I would give Both Sides is that I wish Prince Paul and EL-P had produced the whole thing. Surely this is a point where I can see eye-to-eye with these other reviewers. Actually I have one other critique: I could do without the song "Supa Fiend" all together, and in fact I feel it brings this already lengthy album down a peg. If I could make it perfect I would next remove "Time Is Too Expensive," "Style Police,"Disasterous," & BM's.

Ultimatly though, me and my nerdy friends say this is Del's highest peak of creativity. I mean, come on people...peep game:

"My mainframe gumption is brain bustin'
I like lumpin' up dumb cuts with abundance
Rhyme reservoirs that glitter like a gun bust"

Nobody even cares about rapping lines like that anymore except Def Jux, Heiro, and maybe MF Doom or Stones Throw. They should all merge and form one label to compete better. Del rips like ten million lines that good across the course of this album.

Both Sides will be in my all-time top 20 for life! I'm saying this after listening to it since the day it came out. Don't beleive the naysayers. I also think Rubberoom's "Archetechnology" is another badly slept on gem, but whatever...you can listen to these other reviers and miss out if you insist on doing so.

Del's lyrics rip, some of the beats are s##t!.......2006-07-25

Del is one of those emcees who are literally legends. He can deliver rhymes and flows like no other and he has a style all his own. His content is positive, life lessons and emcee rippin with various video game throw backs and sci-fi mentions. Del is one of the best emcees over and underground. Untouchable. Both sides of the brain is a tight album filled with masterful lyrics. The beats however vary. Some beats are really good, and some fall short and are lame and forgettable. Its really hit and miss with the beats. The lyrics deliver the whole album through. Prince Paul lends a beat, as well as other producers. Like I said, some of the beats are tight, and others just aint right. The overall sound of the album is a raw, underground feel, nothing wrong with that. Its just that some of the beats seem rushed and silly. I understand that not all beats can be like Automators on Deltron 3030, but some of the beats on Both sides of the brain are straight up forgettable. Nevertheless, an enjoyable album that is a must own for hip hop heads and Heiro fanatics and futuristic hip hop fans.

Average customer rating: So smooth, so relaxed A very good CD GREAT JAZZ MUSIC. At least a little toe-tapping... "Cool" jazz, as opposed to "smooth" jazz...

Both Sides Roger Smith Manufacturer: Miramar ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Jazz | Styles | Music Smooth Jazz | Jazz | Styles | Music General | Jazz | Indie Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Consider This Just Enough My Colors Just Feels Right Playin' Favorites ASIN: B00000HZM2 Release Date: 1999-02-23

Tracks:

1. Off The Hook
2. Comes With The Deal
3. Both Sides
4. Change The World
5. Mix It With Love
6. Flevoland
7. Only Wanna Be With You
8. Bring It On
9. Overjoyed
10. In Your Arms
11. Hopscotch

Customer Reviews:

So smooth, so relaxed.......2004-12-28

I recommend this CD to those that like jazz, R&B, hip-hop or both. I'm a musician myself so I know all the details. I was only 13 or 14 when this came out and frankly heard it on the jazz station in Atlanta.

Ya'll know when to reach me. Visit my About You Area over there.

A very good CD.......2002-10-31

I've had this CD for over a year in my collection and totally forgot how good it is. Please add this to your collection if you don't have it already.

GREAT JAZZ MUSIC........2002-06-01

I'M A MUSICIAN, AND I THINK THAT IF YOU LIKE JAZZ MUCIC AS I DO, YOU WILL LOVE THIS CD. ROGER SMITH IS AT HIS BEST AT THE PIANO. DONT MISS OUT ON SOME OF THE GREATIST SMOOTH JAZZ YOU WILL EVER HEAR.

At least a little toe-tapping..........2001-12-17

Syncopation - at it's best. Take Scott Joplin from the world of ragtime and move him into the world of modern jazz - and you have Roger Smith. I love this so much I sent it to everyone in my family. I don't think it's possible to listen and not participate somehow - from air piano when you're by yourself to at least a little toe tapping under the table when you're in a crowd.

"Cool" jazz, as opposed to "smooth" jazz..........2000-02-13

This album is very cool. I wouldn't exactly say it's a smooth album however. Most of the tracks are very upbeat and hip, but Roger Smith fails in the same category that many other virtuosos like Steve Vai, Chuck Loeb, and Victor Wooten fail--song writing. There's plenty of talent on this CD, but some of the tracks make you think "When is this song going to start?", only to find that 3 minutes have gone by. There is plenty of slap bass on this album for the bass guitar-enthused. All in all, about 5 of the 11 songs were well written. You'll love Roger's rendition of "Change the World", and also the dark beauty on tracks like "Bring It On" and "Off the Hook". All in all, I give it 3 stars because he could have thought about some of these songs just a tad more before putting them on tape.

Dance Music:

1. Boy, Interrupted (Import)
2. Brooklyn Fine [Explicit Lyrics]
3. Classic
4. Conversation [Explicit Lyrics]
5. Da Album
6. Da Bomb, Vol. 4
7. Da Un-"X"-Pected
8. Deuce's Wild [Explicit Lyrics]
9. Digital Biography
10. Domino [Explicit Lyrics]

Dance Music

dance music

Dance Music

Cherry Monroe

Julius Reubke: Sonatas For Piano And Organ

Just Friends

Dancemania 99: Live At Birdland [LIVE] [Live]

Wolf Rock [Import]

I'm Ready

Look of Love (Hybr) (Ms) [Hybrid SACD] [SACD]

Herbert Ernst Groh

I'm Staying Out

Jacquet's Street

King of Timbales

Language

Lacomunidad [Import]

Chopin: Piano Concerto No.1

Bobby Bare Jr.'s Young Criminals' Starvation League