Sides [Import]

1. Built You A Gun

2. Sides

3. Desert

4. Sea

5. Riding Falling Elevators

6. Bringing Down The Champion

7. Casino

8. Wire Loop

9. Four & Twenty

10. Perfect Landing

Sides,Full Fathom Five,Kennel Records,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: HISTORY OF PRINCE... DEFINITIVE PORTRIAT OF HIS PRIME YEARS A Genius - And His Guitar - At Work And Play Too talented for words! You're a sinner, I don't care.

The Hits/The B-Sides Prince Manufacturer: Warner Bros / Wea ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music General | Dance Pop | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music General | Pop | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music General | R&B | Styles | Music General | Soul | R&B | Styles | Music General | Funk | R&B | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Neo-Psychedelia | Rock | Alternative Styles | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music General | Dance & DJ | Box Sets | Stores | Music General | Pop | Box Sets | Stores | Music R&B & Soul | Box Sets | Stores | Music General | Rock | Box Sets | Stores | Music Box Sets at 30% Off | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Pop | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Rock | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Alternative Rock | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music R&B | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Dance & DJ | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music All Blowout Music | Blowout Music | Stores | Music More Titles at Least 25% Off | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: 1999 Sign 'O' the Times Music from the Motion Picture "Purple Rain" Diamonds and Pearls Parade: Music from the Motion Picture "Under the Cherry Moon" ASIN: B000002MNF Release Date: 1993-09-14

Tracks:

1. When Doves Cry
2. Pop Life
3. Soft And Wet
4. I Feel For You
5. Why You Wanna Treat Me So Bad?
6. When You Were Mine
7. Uptown
8. Let's Go Crazy - Prince And The Revolution
9. 1999
10. I Could Never Take The Place Of Your Man
11. Nothing Compares 2 U - Prince And The New Power Generation
12. Adore
13. Pink Cashmere
14. Alphabet St. - Prince w/ Shelila E
15. Sign 'O' The Times
16. Thieves In The Temple
17. Diamonds And Pearls - Prince And The New Power Generation
18. 7 - Prince And The New Power Generation

Tracks:

1. Controversy
2. Dirty Mind
3. I Wanna Be Your Lover
4. Head
5. Do Me, Baby
6. Delirious
7. Little Red Corvette
8. I Would Die 4 U - Prince And The Revolution
9. Raspberry Beret - Prince And The Revolution
10. If I Was Your Girlfriend - Prince And Camille
11. Kiss - Prince And The Revolution
12. Peach
13. U Got The Look
14. Sexy M.F. - Prince And The New Power Generation
15. Gett Off - Prince And The New Power Generation
16. Cream - Prince And The New Power Generation
17. Pope
18. Purple Rain - Prince And The Revolution

Tracks:

1. Hello - Prince And The Revolution
2. 200 Balloons
3. Escape
4. Gotta Stop (Messin' About)
5. Horny Toad
6. Feel U Up
7. Girl - Prince And The Revolution
8. I Love U In Me
9. Erotic City - Prince And The Revolution
10. Shockadelica
11. Irrestistible Bitch
12. Scarlet Pussy - Camille
13. La, La, La, He, Hee
14. She's Always In My Hair - Prince And The Revolution
15. 17 Days - Prince And The Revolution
16. How Come U Don't Call Me Anymore
17. Another Lonely Christmas - Prince And The Revolution
18. God - Prince And The Revolution
19. 4 The Tears In Your Eyes
20. Power Fantasic - Prince And The Revolution

Amazon.com essential recording

Assignment: To write 100 words on 56 songs by the greatest artist the '80s produced. Even with single edits substituting for full-length versions in a handful of cases, The Hits/The B-Sides is a mighty testament to the man we once called Prince. (For that matter, we still do.) In addition to most of his singles, from "I Wanna Be Your Lover" to "Thieves in the Temple," from "When Doves Cry" to "7," this triple-CD set throws in some worthwhile new music and a full disc of the fantastic flips that made buying 7- and 12-inches a must even when you already owned the A-side. "You can be the side effect," he mutters herein. "I'd rather be the dope." Witness some of the funkiest pharmaceuticals around. --Rickey Wright

Customer Reviews:

HISTORY OF PRINCE..........2007-07-16

The Past, Present, and Anticipating the Future.

This collection of Prince's greatest hits is without a doubt still his best, even though he has released 3 others in its wake.

The Hits include all of Prince's Top 40 hits and then on a 3rd disc introduces the B-sides that were born from his incredible top 40 hits. B-sides allow the listener to understand how Prince's music was created and how the Era's in which he created his music transformed his artistically.

Prince's music have become a microscope into his life. The Hits cover his emergence as a pop star, His reign at the top of the charts, and finally Prince straying away from the commerical world of music to a more artistic rare form that could teach today's musical youth a lesson in blazing trails rather than just strolling along one someone else created.

The Hits is a chronical of music that will forever stand the test of time in a forever changing world of music.

DEFINITIVE PORTRIAT OF HIS PRIME YEARS.......2007-04-03

It may not be a definitive portriat of his overall career since he produced many great songs(if not albums) after this box set was released but, the hits and B sides does a stellar job of capturing most of the best songs he did during his prime period

Disc one contains what people expect "When Doves Cry", "1999", "Diamonds and Pearls" etc. What makes this box set worth owning is the second and third disc. In my opinion, the second disc contains the songs that cemented his status as the eccentric genius of pop music in the 1980's with racy songs like "Dirty Mind", "Head", "If I was your Girlfriend", etc. The first disc is great and contains some of the most inventive pop songs ever produced but the rauchier second disc contains the songs that made every Prince album an event in the 1980's. Take away the rauchiness and you're left with "another pop artist" who made great songs but have no personality (like George Michael). His sexier side is what made him unique. With sexier x rated songs presenting a flipside to his accessible pop songs, he's a artist shrounded in mystery and worth a million analysis! He's a pure legend because if it and without the second disc, casual fans wouldn't be aware of the mystery that gave him longetvity.

The B Sides disc (disc 3) is pretty cool if not great. It doesn't measure up to the quality of the first two discs but, hidden gems like "She's always in my Hair", "[..] Toad", and "Erotic City" makes the disc worth checking out. If the first disc presents Prince as a inventive Pop craftsman, and the second disc showcases Prince's sexier side, then the thrid disc defines his experiemental side. At times the experimentations paid off and sometimes they didn't - making the B sides disc less consistent than the first two, but enjoyable nonetheless.

This is not a bad place to start to hear one of the best mainstream artist in pop music history. What would've made this boxset better was for them to extended it to a extra disc to include more album tracks rather than just include the hits. Since the quality of Prince music took a nosedive at the dawn of the 90's, this is the best place to hear the purple one at his most fruitful and colorful.

A Genius - And His Guitar - At Work And Play.......2007-02-12

It took the morality police a few days after the Super Bowl to catch back up with Prince. I guess he has been operating too far under the radar for the MP's to remember that back in the day he was one of their biggest targets.

But even the younger MP's have to recall that Prince became a music icon back in the 1980s, when neo-conservatism ran amuck through art. Prince had the courage to push back and this classic set shows his genius as hit after hit after hit - and a few surprises - are showcased in the 56 tracks.

The third disc of B-sides is full of rare songs that make the box set well worth the price. Not only is Prince a prolific artist, he made the singles a must for fans who wanted material not found on albums. Many of the cuts show Prince's wry sense of humor. My favorites include 200 Balloons, Shockadelica, How Come U Don't Call Me Anymore and Another Lonely Christmas.

Pop Life is my favorite song, but discs one and two deliver elegance - Nothing Compares 2 U - collaborations, Alphabet St (with Sheila E) and If I was Your Girlfriend (with Camille) & cuts that may have gotten lost in the wealth of output - Thieves In The Temple and Pope.

He dominated the music industry like few artists. And it looks like Prince and his guitar are ready again to shake things up and get the MP's all hot & bothered.

Maybe for next year's big game the NFL will play it safe and dust off ancient stadium rockers ZZ Top, with the hope that the 8-track tape they'll be lip-syncing to won't snap in the equally antique machine.

Too talented for words!.......2006-08-14

Prince is a musical genius.
2 words...BUY IT. You will not regret this purchase.

You're a sinner, I don't care........2006-06-25

This set collects two discs of Prince's greatest hits, plus a bonus disc of "b-sides" which were previously unavailable on album. The hits speak for themselves; "When Doves Cry", "Kiss", "1999", "Little Red Corvette", etc. But what's really interesting to Prince fans is the "b-sides" disc. These songs were previously hard to find (unless you owned his original singles), and it's great to have them all on one disc. Some of these songs are as good as his hits. The disc even includes my personal favorite Prince song, "Erotic City". So, even if you already own all of Prince's albums, this collection is worth getting for the "b-sides" disc.

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: Futile Offerings From Clueless Executives An album with all the songs you'll need. Great for the casual fan Soundgarden album Amazon has fantastic customer service!

A-Sides Soundgarden Manufacturer: A&M ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music General | Rock | Alternative Styles | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Grunge | Rock | Alternative Styles | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Alternative Metal | Hard Rock & Metal | Styles | Music General | Hard Rock & Metal | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Pop | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Rock | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Alternative Rock | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Hard Rock & Metal | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music All Blowout Music | Blowout Music | Stores | Music More Titles at Least 25% Off | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Thank You Alice in Chains - Greatest Hits Superunknown rearviewmirror (Greatest Hits 1991-2003) Badmotorfinger ASIN: B000001EZU Release Date: 1997-11-04

Tracks:

1. Nothing To Say
2. Flower
3. Loud Love
4. Hands All Over
5. Get On The Snake
6. Jesus Christ Pose
7. Outshined
8. Rusty Cage
9. Spoonman
10. The Day I Tried To Live
11. Black Hole Sun
12. Fell On Black Days
13. Pretty Noose
14. Burden In My Hand
15. Blow Up The Outside World
16. Ty Cobb
17. Bleed Together

Amazon.com

Soundgarden combined the epic grandstanding of Led Zeppelin with the grunge buzz of Blue Cheer and the psychedelic undertones of the Butthole Surfers to create some of the definitive hard rock of the 1990s. This collection of what can loosely be defined as "hits" (hard rock isn't noted for its singles action) briefly sweeps over the indie years with SubPop and SST, placing emphasis on the band's successful A&M years. Singer Chris Cornell's histrionic wails grabbed the bulk of the attention, but the band's true power rested with the drumming of Matt Cameron and the twin guitar attack of Cornell and Kim Thayil. One need only listen to "Fell on Black Days" or "Blow Up the Outside World" to understand that Soundgarden's complex riffs and superb dynamics were its great strengths. --Rob O'Connor

Customer Reviews:

Futile Offerings From Clueless Executives.......2007-07-02

A best-of album from Soundgarden is like a best-of album from Led Zeppelin: it's ridiculous. In many ways Soundgarden is the Led Zeppelin of the grunge era. Both bands are about power and mystique, each offering up a relentlessly heavy edge that overshadowed their contemporaries like Manute Bol standing next to Spud Web. Also, both bands went extinct way too soon. In Soundgarden's case, they issued only five albums and two eps. While their earlier work (1985-1989) was an inchoate combination of sweaty hard rock and shifty punk music, sometime during the process of the "Louder Than Love" album (1989) the band just locked into a sound that can never be duplicated. Everything that followed this period (-1997) was simply brilliant. So, who can argue with a greatist hits collection? My main gripe is that their record label has been incredibly stingy about their treatment of Soundgarden's catalogue, not to mention the Temple of The Dog album, which should be remastered and offered with live tracks/outtakes. This is not just great music, it's music that defines an era, defines a feeling. It's the exalted prototype for an entire movement. And why is the awesome "Birth Ritual" from the Singles soundtrack or "Heretic" from Pump Up The Volume missing? Whatever bohemeth now owns Soundgarden's catalogue needs to remaster everything and release something from the live vaults. It's been a decade since this, their most recent offering, was released. Gimme a break.

An album with all the songs you'll need........2007-06-29

Bands like sound garden were truly amazing music. I mean some of their songs sounded pretty heavy. For me i'm not all into heavy metal I like hard rock too like sound garden frank black and alice in chains except nirvana which is overrated. Spoon man and black hole sun were one of their greatist songs that I can really learn by playing guitar hero. I own this cd I loved every song on here. If you love sound garden then this would be the album for you because it has alot of excellent songs that you will find on here.

Great for the casual fan.......2007-06-27

If you don't already own Superunknown, then you might as well pick up this album as opposed to buying three or four Soundgarden albums. There are some great tunes missing, but there always are. All the major hits are here.

Soundgarden album.......2007-05-14

This is a super album! It covers all the hits from the radio, and is a good introduction to Soundgarden.

Amazon has fantastic customer service!.......2006-03-21

I had not received my order for about 3-4 weeks and I collected that something was wrong. I contacted customer service and it was apparent that the order had been misplaced in the mail. I let them know and they immediately sent me a replacement and I recieved the cd in about 3 days. I was very pleased with their response. I look forward to continuing my business with Amazon.com.

Average customer rating: not a great album, but a great collection excellent--4 1/2 stars An emblematic ride! Nice for a change It's nice when unreleased music is finally released

South Saturn Delta Jimi Hendrix Manufacturer: Experience Hendrix ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Singer-Songwriters | Pop | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Blues Rock | Rock | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Guitar Gods | Rock Guitarists | Rock | Styles | Music General | Hard Rock & Metal | Styles | Music Hard Rock | Hard Rock & Metal | Styles | Music Psychedelic Rock | Classic Rock | Styles | Music Album-Oriented Rock (AOR) | Classic Rock | Styles | Music General | Classic Rock | Styles | 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 Hard Rock & Metal | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music All Blowout Music | Blowout Music | Stores | Music More Titles at Least 25% Off | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: First Rays of the New Rising Sun Blues Axis: Bold As Love Band of Gypsys Electric Ladyland ASIN: B000002P7R Release Date: 1997-10-07

Tracks:

1. Look Over Yonder
2. Little Wing
3. Here He Comes (Lover Man)
4. South Saturn Delta
5. Power Of Soul
6. Message To The Universe (Message To Love)
7. Tax Free
8. All Along The Watch Tower
9. The Stars That Play With Laughing Sam's Dice
10. Midnight
11. Sweet Angel (Angel)
12. Bleeding Heart
13. Pali Gap
14. Drifter's Escape
15. Midnight Lightning

Customer Reviews:

not a great album, but a great collection.......2006-12-17

After Electric Ladyland, this is probably the Hendrix CD that I enjoy the most (I am only missing a few scattered studio releases). While it doesn't hold together as an album, being a compilation, it contains a lot of really incredible songs. The production throughout is fantastic, punchy and clear. Many of these tunes were unfinished studio projects post-Electric Ladyland, and as such a lot of them are very dense and complicated productions. Plentiful guitar overdubs abound, and some of Jimi's most memorable solo playing can be found here as well. Overall, these songs find Hendrix on a serious soul/funk tip, with a lot of very bassy, solid grooves and rhythmic composition. Suffice to say, this makes for great head-nodding material, and when you toss a crazy wah solo on top of it all its pure aural bliss.

I have always percieved the nutty, freaked-out "The Stars that Play With Laughing Sam's Dice" as the halfway point, dividing a distinct first and second half to the album. The first half is just beautiful, and rocks straight through, from the manic blues-rock of "Look Over Yonder" to the unbelievable funk/fusion of "Power of Soul"; an incredibly complex tune, with a 2 1/2 minute intro that is a hugely intricate sequence of call-and-response riffs over this monstrous Buddy Miles funk beat. This whole song is one my all-time favorites of Hendrix', and it's very different stylistically from much of his other work. The second half of the cd is more diverse, containing a lot of the unfinished and alternate take cuts. This makes for more interesting listening to a Hendrix fan, but is not quite as satisfying. Highlights include the mellow, hyptnotic instrumental "Pali Gap", a very early drum-machine driven prototype of "Angel", and an interesting alternate take of "All Along the Watchtower". Also worth noting is the other Dylan cover, "Drifter's Escape", which has a lot of the same energy as Watchtower. The CD wraps up with a rare solo performance of Hendrix sitting in a chair playing the blues. As is the case with such b-side material, its not the greatest performance, but the intimacy of the recording is such that you can hear him tapping his foot on the floor. A great compilation, recommended for any rock fan and essential to any Hendrix collection.

excellent--4 1/2 stars.......2006-08-02

This cd is a must for anyone who loves Jimi Hendrix. Although a few of the songs are unfinished, there is so much to love on this cd. The alternate versions of Little Wing and Angel are awesome, while songs like Pali Gap, Midnight, South Southern Delta are just amazing. Unfinished songs by Jimi still blow away almost all other music and these songs illustrate how amazing he was as a guitarist and songwriter. This cd is an exceelent companion to First Rays of the New Rising Sun.

An emblematic ride!.......2006-06-20

This is one of these musical treasures of the golden bequeath of Hendrix: you will enter into the kaleidoscopic universe of the Godfather of the guitar. And so you will experiment a magical and mysterious tour through every one of these set of 14 invaluable songs, never released domestically on CD.

Apart of the abundant information contained in the booklet, you will be able to analyze the different moods along this worthy CD.

Here he comes is a true lesson of how to get visceral sounds from the guitar; a true futurist piece. South Saturn Delta is simply an anthological work.

My most sincere recommendation for you to acquire it. One additional reason to understand why his name, despite the elapsed years not only holds by itself but thence, of the Harlem improves exponentially like the good wine.

Nice for a change.......2005-11-10

The only reason I bought this was for the track "Pali Gap", which was originaly on the now deleted (but one of my favourite LPs) the "Rainbow Bridge" album. After Jimi died, so young and unexpectedly, he left a lot of unreleased and half finished material. This material became the main contents of albums released after Electic Ladyland. Some of these LPs are now deleted and re-issued in other forms since the Hendrix family won back the rights. South Southern Delta is one of these re-issues.

I wasn't expecting a lot but I must say I was pleasantly surprised. Although mainly a collection of unreleased jams and half finished songs- if you've already heard the "Are you Experienced" "Axis Bold As Love", and "Electric Ladyland" albums, it's quite refreshing to put on something different.

Although there maybe the odd number you may want to give a miss there also some gems to discover too. I liked the version of, "Message of Love" even better then the "Band of Gypsy's" version, which is saying something since that was my all time favourite Hendrix song. It sounds very much like he recorded that particular number with the Woodstock line up. Power of Soul also sounds like the same line up and seems to be taken from the now deleted Crash Landing LP. There are some good jam numbers including the excellent, "Midnight" with its earthy middle eighth section. Although SSD is not as slick a package as albums recorded whilst he was alive, it still a pleasure to listen to the new direction he was developing at the time.

It's nice when unreleased music is finally released.......2005-10-24

And then you finally get the album that has this music thats been out a while. Hendrix is a man with only 3 studio albums but everything else he did was outside of the experiance and all over the place with many musicians and concerts. Hendrix music is pure greatness in the rock and blues genre. He has lots of music other then his studio albums like South Saturn Delta, released many years after his death. Rare unreleased tracks that just plane rock like anything else hes ever done. some of his best work is on this album. Heck its probably even better then Axis: Bold as Love. Too bad he wasn't around for its release. He is truly one of the very best guitarist is rock and roll history. He will be remembered for all time to come. Jimi Hendrix is a guitar god and South Saturn Delta is a wonderful delight of music awesomeness! Listen to the whole darn thing loud and with open ears, because you're in for a treat.

Average customer rating: ingenuous great old ep Damien rice "What makes her come?" Tiding Us Over

B-Sides Damien Rice Manufacturer: Vector Recordings ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music General | Contemporary Folk | Folk | Styles | Music Alternative Folk | Contemporary Folk | Folk | Styles | Music Singer-Songwriters | Contemporary Folk | Folk | Styles | Music General | Folk | Styles | Music Traditional Folk | Folk | Styles | Music Britain | British Isles | Europe | International | Styles | Music Ireland | British Isles | Europe | International | Styles | Music Folk Rock | Rock | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music 4-for-3 Alternative Rock | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 International | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | 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: O 9 Woman Like a Man Unplayed Piano Cannonball ASIN: B0002IQFCW Release Date: 2004-08-03

Tracks:

1. The Professor...(Live at Cornucopia) - (from Blower's Daughter )
2. Lonelil y (original demo) - (from Cannonball or Woman Like A Man )
3. Woman Like a Man (live unplugged) - (from Cannonball )
4. Moody Mooday - (from Cannonball )
5. Delicate (live in Dublin) - (from Volcano )
6. Volcano (instrumental)
7. Volcano (?97 demo)

Album Description

Damien Rice has quite simply taken the music world by storm.From ecstatic reviews to winning the third annual Shortlist Music Prize honoring the most adventurous and creative albums by emerging artists, Damien offers his new legion of admirers and friends in the States an EP of B-sides previously released outside the U.S. These seven stunning tracks will undoubtedly whet the appetite while fans await his forthcoming record.

Customer Reviews:

ingenuous.......2007-03-31

I love Damien Rice. I also have "O" and "9 Crimes". I bought "B-Sides" for the track "Woman Like A Man." What can I say? He seems to know what some of us are thinking, but of course, wouldn't be appropriate to say out loud. Damien does, he says it out loud, and it makes you wonder, how does he know. He's a incredibly talented musician, lyricist and singer. If you're willing to go a little deeper, I recommend anything by Damien Rice.

great old ep.......2007-03-09

how much you want this is determined by how much you love Damien Rice, if you have both albums and love every track then go ahead and buy this; if you only like his hit songs on his albums you probably wont dig this as it's very rough and raw.

Damien rice .......2007-01-06

the album is really great.
I really liked it
the cost is quite reasonable.
I also liked the packaging

"What makes her come?".......2006-07-13

I'm a huge fan of Damien, for out of most new acts he is the only one with the guts to really create something new, fresh and different. He tries to give us a taste of something we've never had the opportunity to experience before. 'B-Sides' is no exception. While not as solid as 'O', I say this only because it's not as long, for the musical selection here is still very strong.

Damien starts us off with 'The Professor & La Fille Danse' which is the most effective track here. It's musical arrangment perfectly fits the lyrical message about the using of women for pleasure. The song describes, in a somewhat explicit and disturbing nature, the fact that this man knows nothing about this woman. The line "and the d*ck left inside only half understood her" perfectly (while vulgarly) explains the predicament that this poor woman is being used for a purpose.

The next track is 'Lonelil y', which appeared on the single for Cannonball (another brilliant track) and this song, while not as strong as the previous, has a possitive message about love and being with the ones you love. None of us want to be lonely. I like the lyrical message in this song, almost as if they took their relationship for granted and then realized they'd rather be together. The chorus chanting "your coming home" and you believe that.

'Woman like a Man' is one of my favorite tracks by Damien. This song is ellegantly done with beautiful harmonizing. The song itself is a little difficult to follow, I'm still trying to figure out what he's getting at, but I think I got it. It appears as if he's pointing out the role-factors of the sexes today, how men and or women want the bennifits received by the other sex and that sex alone. That's just my take though...

I LOVE 'Moody Mooday' if not for the brilliant lyrics then for the way Damien tackles this song. There's a track on 'O' that makes me feel this same way, and that track is 'Cold Water'. On that song, Damien sings as if he were drowning. You believe him. Here it's the same. He sings "I find it hard to breath" and he sings this with such strain in his voice you know he's struggling to deliver each word. The lyrics are deep in their simplicity, and wording it the way he has, with "why d'you have to break free" almost as if she was his captive and then "why d'you have to phone" letting you know she left him in an impersonal mannor but then his comment "someone else you'd rather phone" leads you to believe it was never personal. I personally think she's a hooker...but that's just my take on the song.

The live cut of 'Delicate' is a little to soft. I just think it was poorly recorded. I know it's live but it's no where near as polished as the live cut of 'The Professor...' It's still a wonderful song, it just loses a bit in the translation.

The album closes out with an instrumental and demo version of 'Volcano' which suceeds on both efforts. The instrumental is beautiful but to me it's the demo that stands out as one of my favorite additions to this album. It's raw and downplayed, slow and passionate and it really adds to the umph you get from the powerful lyrics of an immature and maybe even quilty relationship. I just love the whole feel of it.

So there you have it. Yet another brilliant offering from Damien, and something that should hold us over until his next album...let's just pray it comes soon!

Tiding Us Over.......2006-05-25

Damien Rice's "B-Sides", while not the best stand-alone album ever produced, contains a few reworked tracks that are certainly worth hearing. These B-Sides can't (and don't) really work as a stand-alone album. They lack a clear sense of purpose, the kind that's seen in his previous effort, "O." However, like the two hidden tracks at the end of that album, these tracks portray a much darker side of Rice's music, and significantly contribute to the listeners understanding of the artist and help his main work - "O" to stand apart as one of the greatest albums to be released in the past decade. These songs can almost be seen as the ones they were too dark for even "O." Tracks with vivid imagery and strong language like "Woman like a Man" exemplify this.

The songs on this album, even without context, on whole are not as strong as those on "O," The Professor & La Fille Danse, being a notable exception. In truth it is one of his best songs. The writing in this song is especially fresh, with explicit and somewhat disturbing lyrics. This song is almost just an excuse for Rice to wail on his guitar - yet the lyrics present the same helplessness seen in his music. It flows easily through movements in the song. Rice has a penchant for beginning with the best, and "The Professor..." is certainly the best song on the album. Additionally, the demos of "Delicate," and "Volcano" (as well as the instrumental version of "Volcano") are good songs.

The songs on this EP, while significantly simpler than the overall quality of his first effort, contain the same emotion and vocal strength of his other work. And while there are some spectacular moments, the music of "O" clearly outshines Rice's B-Sides. However, this collection of music is still a fine set of track, and this reviewer looks forward to more out of Damien Rice.

Average customer rating: Sonic Stuff A Sonic treasure trove for fans 21st Century Jam Band Forget Rarities, SY Releases 'Oddysseys' Blissed-out Sonic Goodness

The Destroyed Room: B-Sides and Rarities Sonic Youth Manufacturer: Geffen Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Hardcore & Punk | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music | Vinyl Records | American Punk | British Punk | Emo | Garage Punk | Hardcore | Post Hardcore | Proto Punk | Punk | Punk Revival | Punk-Pop | Riot Grrl | Ska Punk | Straight Edge General | American Alternative | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Indie Rock | Indie & Lo-Fi | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Noise | Rock | Alternative Styles | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Experimental Rock | Rock | Alternative Styles | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Post-Punk | New Wave & Post-Punk | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Similar Items: Sonic Youth Daydream Nation (Deluxe Edition) Rather Ripped Beyond Live at the Fillmore East ASIN: B000K7UH3I Release Date: 2006-12-12

Tracks:

1. Fire Engine Dream
2. Fauxhemians
3. Razor Blade
4. Blink
5. Campfire
6. Loop Cat
7. Kim's Chords
8. Beautiful Plateau
9. Three-Part Sectional Love Seat
10. Queen Anne Chair
11. The Diamond Sea

Amazon.com

After years of making fans track down out-of-print singles, obscure compilations, and odd Japanese import pressings, Sonic Youth have decided to take a little mercy on their hardcore fans. The Destroyed Room is a rarities album that truly lives up to the label, not just settling on a few radio edits and soundtrack cuts, but gathering songs from the band's recent back catalog that are genuinely hard to find: "Campfire" from the Grand Royal At Home with the Groovebox collection; "Razor Blade," a B-side to the "Bull in the Heather" single; and several cuts from the Noho Furniture Sessions, including the intriguingly titled "Three Part Sectional Love Seat" and "Queen Anne Chair." Fans and casual enthusiasts will no doubt be bewildered by the extra experimental outings of an already daunting band--but for completists, this is the last word. --Aidin Vaziri

Album Description

THE DESTROYED ROOM: B-sides and Rarities, a band-chosen collection of near-hidden Sonic Youth gems.

The album brings together tracks from throughout the band's career - focusing on tracks previously available only on vinyl, limited-release compilations, or as b-sides to nternational singles. Remastered here for the first time, it's a chance for fans to complete their Sonic Youth collection with pristine versions of tracks they'd been going nuts trying to find on their own. They asked for it... and now they're getting it.

Customer Reviews:

Sonic Stuff.......2007-03-23

I love Sonic Youth but...their records all sound the same in the end.

A Sonic treasure trove for fans.......2007-01-20

("The Destroyed Room" by Sonic Youth)

While it pains me to give anything less than 5 stars to a recording by what is after all the Greatest American Rock Band of the Last 25 Years--nay, the Greatest Rock Band Period of the Last 25 Years--I'll respectfully knock off one star for this collection of B-sides, demos and other sonic effluvia. This collection, you see, is mainly geared to fans of the band and other related music obsessives--newbies need not apply. If you're just looking to dip a toe into the band's very deep waters, it's better to start with SY's best-of-the-early-years collection, "Screaming Fields of Sonic Love." Those wanting to try a proper album should head straight for "Sister" (which most fans agree is actually their best album) or the epochal "Daydream Nation." The material on "The Destroyed Room" dates back no further than 1994, around the time of the underappreciated "Washing Machine" album, with the majority much more recent than that. In fact, only three of the songs here even have vocals, and one of those ("Razor Blade") is just a brief out-take. If you're already a fan, however, nothing except lack of funds should stop you from diving in, as there are plenty of Kool Things to be found, especially if you share the band's love of free improv. The lengthy instrumental workout that opens the album, "Fire Engine Dream" lets the band stretch out and just explore; needless to say, it's filled with oddly tuned textures and feedback, but also something of a groove courtesy of drummer Steve Shelley, who never receives enough credit. Naturally, SY's guitarists, Thurston Moore and Lee Ranaldo (the real Glimmer Twins, if you ask me) are usually front and center, trading melodic ideas, drones and all-out Sonic abandon with glee. The Kim Gordon penned "Blink" is a surprisingly subtle song that would've fit right into one of the bands proper albums, and "Campfire" is an interesting excursion into abstract electronica. Unlike many latter-day noise merchants such as Wolf Eyes and Sightings, the Youth take a more laid-back, even friendly approach to horrible noise. The days of Sonic Death have been replaced by Sonic Life (an early title for the album now known as "Rather Ripped"), which is, of all things, sunny and positive. This isn't to say that it's "easy listening" (much of the stuff here will cause most "normal" folks to run for the exits). It's just that SY aim to transport listeners rather than smother them. While that approach draws sneering comparisons to so-called "jam bands," they're far more daring than the likes of Phish. If "The Destroyed Room" were released as an "all-new" album, it would definitely be considered the ballsiest release by a major rock band in years.

The biggest treat here, at least for yours truly, is the complete, uncut version of "Washing Machine's" epic coda, "The Diamond Sea." Mind you, the original version clocked in at a huge 19+ minutes--now we get to hear it at a mind-blowing 25:48! That it never feels bloated or wasteful is testament to the band's powere. Of course it's self indulgent, as is much of this album in general, but from them, too much is never enough.

21st Century Jam Band.......2006-12-22

If you like the 2nd disc on the Dirty deluxe set, or the Made In USA soundtrack, check out this album. Not too weird, but not too normal either.

Forget Rarities, SY Releases 'Oddysseys'.......2006-12-17

The anticipation of new Sonic Youth discs are always welcomed events amongst fans in the know and 2006 has been an absolute deluge of the old, the new, and in this case, the odd. SY's latest offering is 76 minutes of ear-opening rare compilation tracks and album outtakes spanning from 1994-2004 (no earlier, no later).

It's reasonable to state that SY's website description to "Destroyed Room" was a bit misleading. Often times a b-sides/rarities comp is an uncohesive stew of songs 'not good enough' or 'too different' from a particular group's current art mindset. While The Youth has already tagged 2nd disc outtakes unto "Goo" and "Dirty", this release looked to be a culmination of the throwaways from SY's most recent seven albums.

Thankfully in a twist of rote expectations, "Detroyed Room" is different from hodge-podged outtake anthologies and plays very similar to the stylings of the inward-looking SYR series. Only three of the eleven songs on "Destroyed Room" contain lyrics (2 by Kim, 1 by Thurston) and the other eight are somewhat challenging instrumental compositions that stemmed from album session jams or focused peices specifically meant for concept compilation albums. The mind-bending instrumentals, most notably from the "Sonic Nurse" era, are angluar and rare-tuned oddysseys that demonstrate how this band glides into recording a new record.

In addition to quality music, the "Destroyed Room" booklet is not closet material for you portable cd-casers and/or I-Poders. With a track-by-track analysis, the mystery behind the sounds is explained well enough to leave the listener to do just that, LISTEN, and not question the band's intentions. Having read the band commentary, it'S obvious what The Youth has opted out to offer on this release; straight up experimental jamming.

FYI - Depending on what kind of SY fan you are this could be a warning or a letdown; this disc DOES NOT contain any noise freakouts. But on the otherhand, this disc does not offer great insight to polished outtake songs that are complete with verse/chorus/verse structures. Overall, this disc is good middle-of-the-road material. Spend the money and vote for peace (see the booklet for that reference).

Blissed-out Sonic Goodness.......2006-12-17

I thank Sonic Youth for all the great music they've bestowed on us in 2006 alone...'Rather Ripped', their strongest LP since 'Washing Machine'. The "Helen Lundeberg/Eyeliner" 7-inch. The reissue of their first EP. And now, this...an into-the-groovey double-LP-length ride on the expressway to yr skull.

The subtitle tells you exactly what's here...b-sides and rarities. The emphasis, however, is on instrumental rarities that are ultra-tuff to come by. For me, mood pieces like "Campfire" and "Loop Cat" are definite highlights here. SY took the adventurous route with 'Destroyed Room'...they could've opted for some "safer" choices like "My Arena", "Superstar" or the cover of Nirvana's "Moist Vagina" from the "Sunday" 7-inch. But no. This record will challenge you straight outta the box with the 10-plus minute "Fire Engine Dream", which manages to sound exactly like what the title suggests. Oh, and the track-by-track notes are entertaining, too.

But let me say this. When I found out that 'Destroyed Room' was going to contain the full 26-minute version of "The Diamond Sea" complete with alternate ending, I just about "done a double backflip", to quote Roger Miller. I listened to this track today while fighting my way through Tulsa Christmas shopping traffic, and it prevented me from losing my patience and killing fellow motorists. God, what a song.

You may be saying, "Well, if it's so damn good, why only 4 stars and not 5?" I like to keep the 5-star rating meaningful, so I don't give it to every record that blows my skirt up. 5 Stars means 'Blonde on Blonde'. 'Velvet Underground & Nico'. 'Fun House'. You get the idea. Surely you will understand.

Average customer rating: Great CD! More songs should have been included Exquisite! It's all about who you think of when you listen to this..... I bought it for "I Will Remember You" and now I love the whole album!

Rarities, B-Sides & Other Stuff Sarah McLachlan Manufacturer: Nettwerk Canada 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 Adult Alternative | Pop | Styles | Music Folk Rock | Rock | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Alternative Rock | Imports | Stores | Music Rock | Imports | Stores | Music Pop | Imports | Stores | Music Similar Items: The Freedom Sessions [EP] [ENHANCED CD] Touch Solace Live Acoustic Fumbling Towards Ecstasy ASIN: B000005RQQ Release Date: 1996-06-17

Tracks:

1. Dear God
2. I Will Remember You
3. Fear [LunaSol Remix]
4. Gloomy Sunday [Live]
5. Full of Grace
6. Song for a Winter's Night
7. Blue
8. Drawn to the Rhythm [Live]
9. Shelter [Violin Mix]
10. As the End Draws Near [Extended Remix] - Manufacture, Sarah McLachlan
11. Vox [Extended Remix]
12. Into the Fire [Extended Remix]
13. Possession [Rabbit in the Moon Remix]

Amazon.com

The Sarah McLachlan cottage industry rolls with Rarities. This disc of hard-to-finds and extended remixes offers some choice morsels for casual fans and a whole plateful for the faithful. The Freedom Sessions proved that McLachlan can do some nice stuff with a cover tune, and she offers a sweet handful here. Fellow Canadians Gordon Lightfoot and Joni Mitchell get lushed-out respectively with "Song For A Winter's Night" and "Blue," and McLachlan also works her magic with XTC's "Dear God" and the Billie Holiday classic "Gloomy Sunday." Each is dark, but engaging, like so much of McLachlan's own material, including this set's brooding "Full of Grace" and "I Will Remember You." --Michael Ruby

Album Description

Never released in the U.S., this 1996 collection features 13of the Canadian singer/ songwriter's best B-sides, covers, rarities & soundtrack contributions, 1987-1996. Housed in a double gatefold slipcase, it includes 'Possession' (Rabbit In The Moon Remix), 'I Will Remember You' (from the film 'Last Of The Mohicans'), covers of XTC's 'Dear God', Gordon Lightfoot's 'Song For A Winter's Night' & Joni Mitchell's 'Blue', plus live cuts & more mixes! A Nettwerk release. The full title is 'Rarities, B-sides, And Other Stuff'.

Album Details

Includes Various Rarities and B-Sides Previously Unavailable Elsewhere. Also Include S an Enhanced CD-ROM Track with Videos and More.

Customer Reviews:

Great CD!.......2007-02-13

I must admit that I don't usually like reviewing CD's and I must admit that I only listen to a few songs on this CD but if it came with only those songs, it would still be worth it.

I've been a Sarah fan for quite some time and, by accident, I discovered she did a hauntingly beautiful cover of "Gloomy Sunday." I searched high and low to find that this song was only on the CD Rarities, B-sides & Other Stuff which I promptly bought off of amazon.

Unfortunately, the first CD arrived cracked. I was heartbroken as I tore into the package wanting to listen to that beautiful song and realized I had to wait even more. The second delivery was uneventful (save for some neighbours stealing my mail) and I was soon able to grace my ears with this magnificent song.

I've already admitted I haven't listened to much of the rest of the CD though the track listing is impressive, boasting songs which are - you guess it - "Rarities, B-sides & Other stuff." You'll find familiar names in possibly unfamiliar sounds and remixes and unless you're much more dedicated a fan than I am, some of these songs will be new to you.

I encourage you to give the entire Cd a listen but if you're like me and only purchase it for one song you still will not be disappointed.

More songs should have been included.......2006-12-25

Rarities, B-Sides, and Other Stuff is a collection of remixed songs(Fear, Shelter, As The End Draws Near, Vox, Into the Fire, Possession), and songs Sarah McLachlan covered(XTC's Dear God, Gordon Lightfoot's Song For A Winter's night, Joni Mitchel's Blue); recorded live(Drawn To The Rhythm, Gloomy Sunday); and written and contributed for several films(I Will Remember You from Brothers McMullen, Full Of Grace from Moll Flanders).

The controversial Dear God is raging and emotional. Melancholic tracks I Will Remember You, Full Of Grace, Song For A Winter's night, and Shelter are moving and captivating. Gloomy Sunday and Fear are dark. Uptempo 80s sounding Vox, bass heavy Into The Fire, and Celtic sounding Drawn To The Rhythm may leave your foot tapping for the duration of these songs. Less interesting songs are Blue, As The End Draws Near, and Possession. What will keep you listening to the aforementioned three songs however is McLachlan's beautiful vocals. Outstanding tracks are the studio and longer version of I Will Remember You, and Shelter which is performed accompanied only by electric violin, electric viola, and bass guitar.

Extended remix of Vox should have not been included in the CD since it appears on Touch. There are also songs recorded prior to the release of Rarities that should have made its way to this CD - McLachlan's cover of Cat Stevens' Sad Lisa and Peter Gabriel's Solsbury Hill.

Exquisite!.......2006-09-28

Sarah is at her best here. Her beautiful and one-of-a-kind voice could never be matched by anyone else. Even without all the techno and brilliant synths, she would stand above most any other vocalist out there today! I have had this album for years, and have never grown tired of it. What a God-send Sarah is!

It's all about who you think of when you listen to this............2006-04-21

This CD has the most incredible rendition of A Winter's Night that I've ever heard. And you know those moments in your life when music can bring something back to you, so close, so intense-- that you can breathe it, feel it, live it all again? What a gift that is. I swear this music gives parts of my life back to me all over again and it is truly bittersweet. This is for heartache, for beauty, and for life-- and for whoever you will always love, deeply and completely, without thought, sense or reservation. Enjoy.

I bought it for "I Will Remember You" and now I love the whole album! .......2005-10-19

If you have never heard of Sarah McLachlan then it is time you were properly introduced! This is such a great cd! Forget the fact that it's an import and that you may have to pay a little extra for it! It's worth EVERY penny!! Sarah McLachlan has a voice that is both captivating and wonderfully haunting. I find this cd relaxing, but not so much that you drift off. Alot of Sarah's lyrics are very good, as well! A good number of them provoke thoughts in one area or another. As for her songs themselves....some are bitter-sweet, some have a funky beat or different melody to them, and some will make you marvel at her talent. SUCH complex, gorgeous music!! Buy Rarities, B-Sides, & Other Stuff for yourself and be amazed.


My favorite songs off of this album: I Will Remember You; The primary reason why I bought this album. This is a beautiful ballad and would be worthy of being titled a classic! Very good lyrics!, Fear; I love the funky beat to it! Plus Sarah's voice!, Possession; Read the lyrics to this one! At the same time they are both flirtatious (the chorus in particular) and full of yearning. Wow!, Shelter; The violins mix so well with this song! Just awesome!


My one and only complaint about this cd is regarding the song Dear God; It's one of the BIGGEST, most impudent, loads of blasphemy I've ever heard in my life!! HA! Has she no faith in our almighty God? It's a pity really. But she does have rights to express her thoughts. As much right as I have to express mine regarding her song. This is my opinion. You may give me a low grade for it but see if I care, for I will stand up for my religion.

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.

Dance Music:

1. Sneakacydal [Explicit Lyrics]
2. Sol Power
3. Taking Penitentiary Chances [Explicit Lyrics]
4. The Entity [Explicit Lyrics]
5. The Ice Opinion/Cassettes [Box set]
6. The Preacher's Son [Enhanced]
7. The Preacher's Son [Enhanced]
8. Theory of Life [Explicit Lyrics]
9. This Is Not a Test [Import]
10. Through the Wire [CD-single]

Dance Music

dance music

Dance Music

Are You Still Having Fun [CD-single]

Concerto for Multiple Instruments

Drifting into Dream

50 Ways to Leave Your Lover [Import]

Endless Jam Continues [Import]

EP Collection [Import]

Fall into Song

Dvorak/Mendelssohn: Piano Trios

Great Marty Robbins [Import]

Decide Tu [Enhanced]

Girl & Her Songs [Import] [Original recording remastered]

Free & Easy [Import]

Disco Italia 2004 [Import]

Stay Tuned!

Roll Call