CAB

CAB

Editorial Reviews

Amazon.com
Guitarist/keyboardist Tony MacAlpine, known for chest-swelling rock-classical hybrids, has occasionally tinkered with jazz-rock elements on earlier releases. Here, he fully invests himself in a fusion trio that includes bassist Bunny Brunel (who owns credits with Chick Corea and Herbie Hancock) and David Chambers (Parliament-Funkadelic). Along with being the album's featured instrumentalist, Brunel wrote seven of the disc's 10 tracks, with MacAlpine penning the final three. The results are attractive, if not always arresting. MacAlpine takes flight as a soloist only sporadically, most memorably when responding to his own meaty rock chops in the title track and during an elaborate run on the concluding selection, "Bernard." MacAlpine's output on keyboards surfaces almost as often as his riffing, lending a Return to Forever vibe to a package that shines more brightly when MacAlpine and Brunel give themselves room to cook (as on the Satriani-like "Boogie Me") rather than simmer. --Terry Wood

Product Description
Featuring three of the most revered instrumentalists today, rock guitarist/keyboardist Tony Macalpine, basist Bunny Brunel (Chick Corea, Herbie Hancock) and drummer Dennis Chambers (Parliament, Funkadelic, Steely Dan) together on 10 tracks.2000 release. Standard jewel case.

CAB,Tony MacAlpine,Brunel,Dennis Chambers,Tone Center,Guitar Virtuoso,Jazz Music,Pop,Rock,Rock/Pop


Plans
Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
  • Some fantastic singles
  • I'll follow You into the Dark!
  • Hoping to pull this up to 4.5 stars...
  • IT'S ALL GOOD
  • Pleasantly Surprised!
Plans
Death Cab for Cutie
Manufacturer: Atlantic / Wea
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B000AADYRQ
Release Date: 2005-08-30

Tracks:

  1. Marching Bands of Manhattan
  2. Soul Meets Body
  3. Summer Skin
  4. Different Names for the Same Thing
  5. I Will Follow You into the Dark
  6. Your Heart Is an Empty Room
  7. Someday You Will Be Loved
  8. Crooked Teeth
  9. What Sarah Said
  10. Brothers on a Hotel Bed
  11. Stable Song

Amazon.com

When an indie-rock band as intimately and fiercely loved as Death Cab for Cutie makes the inevitable major-label jump, it often telegraphs a painful death. Witness Husker Du, the Replacements, Nirvana--hell, even R.E.M. After a successful four-album run on tiny Seattle imprint Barsuk, however, Death Cab for Cutie just might buck the trend on its Atlantic premiere. Yes, you can grumble about the production (a little too slick), the proportion of ballads (a little too many) and the overall feeling of restraint (a little too much), but ultimately the album delivers everything the group does best in emotional, experimental songs such as "What Sarah Said" and "I Will Follow You into the Dark," which both blend stark lyrical details with acoustic guitars and soft-focus electronics. In "Soul Meets Body," meanwhile, songwriter Ben Gibbard has come up with the kind of blissful, beatific pop song that's capable of disarming even the harshest skeptic. "A melody softly soaring through my atmosphere," he sings. --Aidin Vaziri

Catching up with Death Cab for Cutie

Something About Airplanes

We Have the Facts and We're Voting Yes

Forbidden Love [EP]

The Photo Album

You Can Play These Songs with Chords

Transatlanticism

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Some fantastic singles.......2007-06-27

This is the only Death Cab album I like, but it's an amazing one. If you're new to the band, start here!

5 out of 5 stars I'll follow You into the Dark!.......2007-05-16

My wife and I heard the tract "I'll Follow You Into the Dark" on Jay Leno and since August is our 44th Anniversary we thought it would be the perfect song to play at the renewing of our vows. Suprisingly the entire CD was as awesome as the one song we had heard and we've enjoyed every one on it. It's a little different than what we've always listened to, things like Steppenwolf and Led Zepplin, but we've become fans of "Death Cab For Cutie!"

5 out of 5 stars Hoping to pull this up to 4.5 stars..........2007-04-11

I would actually give Plans 4.5 stars, but I am rating it a 5 to help pull the overall rating to a 4.5.

This was my introduction to Death Cab For Cutie by a friend. She made me listen to "Soul Meets Body", and I was in love with that song. I purchased the album, and to my surprise, there were a few tracks I liked more than "Soul Meets Body". There are a couple of tracks that don't work well ("Brothers on a Hotel Bed", for instance), but when it does work well, it's a mellow and beautiful listen.

Standout tracks: "Marching Bands of Manhattan", "I Will Follow You Into the Dark", "Crooked Teeth", "Soul Meets Body", "Summer Skin", "Your Heart is an Empty Room".

5 out of 5 stars IT'S ALL GOOD.......2007-03-23

I bought this CD after hearing "I Will Follow You Into the Dark" and "Crooked Teeth." The whole CD is quite good, and some of it is relaxing, too. We actually listened to it during dinner. It was good straight through. Haven't heard much of "Death Cab For Cutie" other than this CD, but would definitely check them out more now!

5 out of 5 stars Pleasantly Surprised!.......2007-03-11

Somewhere I heard their track "Follow me into the dark" and the accoustic guitar caught my attention. I don't listen to the radio that much since I don't have a long commute - kitchen to office type thing. The other day I heard it again and this time I caught the name of the album - I'm notorious for not knowing the names of bands and this one zipped by me too. I know what I like and I know good music when I hear it. Frequently when I've bought a CD for one track I'm disappointed by the tone or quality of the rest ... but, not in this case. They have the quality of many of the bands from the 60s, but they are original and thoughtful in their writing. This record is relatively mellow, but it has as pleasant energy about it. Similar to another review here on Amazon, I'm interested in looking into their previous work and will look for new releases from them. If someones doesn't talk them out of their own style and will let them alone to continue to develop it, they'll be around for a long time I'm quite certain.
Transatlanticism
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • meh
  • these songs are so wonderful
  • Wow.
  • What can I say...
  • A Great Album
Transatlanticism
Death Cab for Cutie
Manufacturer: Barsuk
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B0000D1FDI
Release Date: 2003-10-07

Tracks:

  1. The New Year
  2. Lightness
  3. Title And Registration
  4. Expo '86
  5. The Sound Of Settling
  6. Tiny Vessels
  7. Transatlanticism
  8. Passenger Seat
  9. Death Of An Interior Decorator
  10. We Looked Like Giants
  11. A Lack Of Color

Amazon.com

With songs equal to those on We Have the Facts and a lush, brilliant production that continues what The Photo Album started, Transatlanticism is easily Death Cab's best record to date. Much attention has duly been focused on doe-eyed singer/lyricist Ben Gibbard, co-star of the Postal Service phenomenon, and Ben's voice is as strange, beautiful, and as strong as ever on these songs, which deal with the difficulties of long-distance relationships. But guitarist/producer Chris Walla once again proves himself to be the band's secret weapon, layering subtle sonic touches throughout Transatlanticism, which is most definitely a "headphone record." This Seattle quartet is one of the only bands to really have picked up the intelligent, emotionally resonant, and guitar-driven indie-pop torch that Built to Spill briefly lit in the mid-1990s (before themselves heading off to the stoner-rock territory). DCFC themselves seem poised to finally break out to a wider audience, and they truly deserve it with this disc. --Mike McGonigal

Customer Reviews:

3 out of 5 stars meh.......2007-05-25

It's okay. A friend of mine gave me a mix one time that had Title and Registration on it. I bought it because thats one of my favorite songs and I was hoping that all the songs on the album would be that good. Theres a couple other good ones on there but I am not a hardcore Death Cab fan either so I'm sure all you hardcore Death Cab fans will scoff at me for not falling head over heals for Transatlanticism. Its an okay album but not one of my favorites.

5 out of 5 stars these songs are so wonderful.......2007-02-27

Passenger Seat and Lightness are my favorite songs. If you have to buy one album this year buy this one. It is a great album. This is not shouting junk like nu-metal. This music is fun and it is easy going so you can listen when you are relaxing. it is good with lyrics that are thoughtful. I dont know but I was thinking this might be the best album I have heard all year besides the Babel soundtrack. I would really like to see this band in concert. I think this style of music can be enjoyed by many people whether they like folk, alternative or blues. This album may not grab you right off the bat but I myself find the more I listen to it the more I love it!

5 out of 5 stars Wow........2007-02-10

I'm fairly new to Death Cab for Cutie. My first exposure to them was Plans, which I love. Saw them live with OK Go last year and really enjoyed it. I got this disc and went into it expecting to think "okay, it's pretty good" because Plans is so familiar and comfortable. However, I listened to it for the first time today and it's phenomenal.

Really.

I was drawn in right from the start with "The New Year", and I'm not going to rate each song, but the entire disc held my attention effortlessly, all the way through to the end. Right now, I like it as much as Plans. Once I become more familiar with it, I'll like it even more.

4 out of 5 stars What can I say..........2007-01-29

You either like DCFC or you don't...or if you like Postal Service you should automatically like DCFC.(Same lead singer.) The added attraction to this album (if you needed one) is that the title track was used in the closing scene for a recent CSI:Miami. On second thought, maybe that's not necessarily an added attraction.

5 out of 5 stars A Great Album.......2007-01-11

This follow up to the spectacular Photo Album has just as many great moments and catchy songs. I find myself inexplicably singing along with nearly every Death Cab for Cutie song I hear, and the ones on this album are no different.
The Photo Album
Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
  • I don't even like EMO...
  • Honestly, one of their weakest releases
  • Very good collection of songs
  • favorite death cab album
  • Underrated. Some of my favorite Death Cab
The Photo Album
Death Cab for Cutie
Manufacturer: Barsuk
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B00005ORA5
Release Date: 2001-10-09

Tracks:

  1. Steadier Footing
  2. A Movie Script Ending
  3. We Laugh Indoors
  4. Information Travels Faster
  5. Why You'd Want To Live Here
  6. Blacking Out The Friction
  7. I Was A Kaleidoscope
  8. Styrofoam Plates
  9. Coney Island
  10. Debate Exposes Doubt

Amazon.com

Death Cab for Cutie turn difficult personal issues into literary rock songs while straddling the narrow line between blissful pop and driving indie rock. The Northwest act's songs soar high like Built to Spill's or Beulah's, and almost every track on The Photo Album is as musically bouncy and upbeat as the best of those bands. As catchy as the songs on The Photo Album may be, though, it's really front man Benjamin Gibbard's comfort with laying his emotional issues bare that makes this an excellent album. "Styrofoam Plates" is the most stunning track, with words that leave chills long after they've disappeared. As Gibbard sings about anger for a dead father ("It's not quite a stretch to say you were not quite a father / But a donor of seeds to a poor single mother / That would raise us alone / We never saw the money / It went down your throat down the hole in your belly"), his stark honesty makes this dysfunctional family story the most compelling piece of this album. The other issues of clumsy relationships pale a little in comparison, but The Photo Album still leaves little doubt that Death Cab deserve all the indie rock accolades they have received. --Jennifer Maerz

Album Description

3rd full-length from Seattle indie darlings features guest appearances by Sean Nelson, John Vanderslice & James Mendenhall ,on Barsuk Records.

Customer Reviews:

4 out of 5 stars I don't even like EMO..........2007-01-20

I didn't discover Death Cab until Transatlantacisim (thanks to the OC) but this band has quickly become one of my favorites. I think they are rediculously talented, and I love the way they structure their music and lyrics. This album doesn't disapoint if you appreciate what this band is doing. It's a little less clean than Transatlantacisim and Plans, but it's still highly enjoyable. I only rate this 4 stars because I compare it to their more recent releases, and I feel that this band is getting better as time goes along.

3 out of 5 stars Honestly, one of their weakest releases.......2006-09-14

I am a huge Death Cab for Cutie fan. When I disovered them, I bought all of their albums except one. For some reason, I never got around to buying The Photo Album. I've read all the reviews of this album and most say that it's Death Cab's best and beats Transatlanticsm and Plans. Well, I finally bought it and was very excited to listen to it and I was expecting something better from what I am used to hearing from Death Cab. The cd started, and wow was I dissapointed. First off, there are only 10 songs - 9 if you don't count the mediocre first track. You'd think that this small amount of tracks, every song would be real good...wrong. This isn't like any other Death Cab album. Yeah there are a couple tracks that are beautiful but what the hell is up with Ben Gibbard's singing on this cd? It just sounds to me like he just rushed and threw some vocals on top. Most of time he sings off timing (but not off key) and that makes it very hard to listen to. And also on the third track, the song is ruined because you can barely hear Ben's vocals!! I don't know what the band was thinking on that song because it's a great song but the volume on the vocals are unnessary low. The songs overall just don't really pop out to you. My only favorite songs on this are Blacking Out The Friction and Coney Island. Now those two are exactly what I love about Death Cab...catchy lyrics and amazing music. I was so dissapointed and I shouldn't have listened to all these people that said this was Death Cab's best release. So don't make the same mistake. But you know, it's not 100% bad but after listening to Transatlanticsm and Plans, it just sounds weak compared to those. This is an honest review from a loyal Death Cab for Cutie fan so please don't ignore this. Pick this up though if you want to complete your collection.

5 out of 5 stars Very good collection of songs.......2006-05-07

This CD is obviously one of the catchier DCFC releases. I love this CD. It is the DCFC album I go back to again and again. One of my big complaints are albums with 1 good song, 2 ok songs and 7 bad songs. It makes me feel like I wasted my money buying a whole CD, but The Photo Album has a very good collection of songs. This is the 3rd DCFC Album I own, and it is very good. The music is so amazing. These guys have real talent. DCFC have definately won me over as a long time fan. The melodic pop mixed with deeply emotional lyrics are just what the world needs more of, good no nonsense music. I am looking forward to the next album.

5 out of 5 stars favorite death cab album.......2006-04-22

This album is my favorite from Death Cab. I first heard them right after they released Transatlanticism and fell in love. Some of my favorite songs are "A Movie Script Ending," "Why You'd Want to Live Here," "Blacking Out the Friction," and "I Was a Kaleidoscope." However, the entire CD is good, and I never skip a track when listening.

4 out of 5 stars Underrated. Some of my favorite Death Cab.......2006-04-09

When it comes to Death Cab, I think many people overlook The Photo Album due to the success of Transatlanticism and the recent release of Plans, and that's sad. I enjoy Photo Album soo much more than I enjoy Plans. If you can't somehow find some form of solitude or bliss from "We Laugh Indoors," then I think something's wrong. The song vaguely reminds me of "We Looked Like Giants," and that's a good thing. Check out "Styrofoam Plates," "Coney Island" and "Movie Script Ending" as well. These are easily some of my favorite Death Cab tunes.
I always liked DCfC's raw, more indie-sound anyway.
We Have the Facts and We're Voting Yes
Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
  • Read the Facts, Vote Yes
  • reviewed by a devoted death cab fan
  • it's too bad this is receiving less than 5 stars
  • Really Good Background Music, But Not Much More
  • Death Cab roots
We Have the Facts and We're Voting Yes
Death Cab for Cutie
Manufacturer: Barsuk
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B00004RI7B
Release Date: 2000-03-21

Tracks:

  1. Title Track
  2. The Employment Pages
  3. For What Reason
  4. Lowell, MA
  5. 405
  6. Little Fury Bugs
  7. Company Calls
  8. Company Calls Epilogue
  9. No Joy In Mudville
  10. Scientist Studies

Amazon.com

On their debut album, 1999's Something About Airplanes, Death Cab for Cutie proved there's a reason why Northwest music critics continue to sing their praises. The foursome combined the emo sounds of Modest Mouse and 764-Hero with an inventive, and often sly, sentimentality. It worked wonders, but still sounded a little too lo-fi. Luckily, on We Have the Facts and We're Voting Yes the group has figured out all the production nuances that flawed that auspicious debut. The opening "Title Track" begins by sounding both crappy and shallow, but the band is merely pulling your leg; two minutes later, the tune expands into a gorgeous, well-produced masterpiece. The album never looks back. Ben Gibbard's songwriting continues to evolve--"Company Calls" segues into, what else, the slower "Company Calls Epilogue"--while the simple lyrics of "For What Reason" and "405" tell infectious stories that demand repeated listenings. Proof positive the Northwest is still churning out great music. --Jason Verlinde

Album Description

A delicious and head-sticking mix of drummer Ben Gibbard's heartbreaking vocal melodies and reflective lyrics of transition and loss, punctuated by energized and beautiful playing from Chris Walla and Nick Harmer. Barsuk Records.

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Read the Facts, Vote Yes.......2006-10-25

(Editor's Note: Article written by son, Trevor.)


Being a giant fan of Death Cab For Cutie, this was my fifth album by them (sixth, if you count Directions.) I would have to say, this would be my favorite album by them. Everything this band has put out I have been thoroughly impressed by, but something about this one will make you listen to it over and over. The best way to describe it is to go through every song.


1. From the moment you start it, "Title Track" will bring pleasure to your ears. While it is a simple song, something about it you fall in love with. The muffled effect in the beginning and the transition to a clarity after the first chorus adds great effect to the song. However, after about ten or fifteen listens, this song will lose appeal. [4/5]


2. "The Employment Pages" is probably my favorite song on the album. You can listen to this song on repeat for hours, and you'll never tire of it. Though it does have a very slow tempo, the simplicity of the vocals and complexity of the music is an impressive blend. [5/5]

3. "For What Reason" does not particularly stand out in the album, but is none the less a great song. I do agree with some people who said that alot of the songs on this album sound the same, for this and the next track I always mix up. However, it is a great up-tempo tune after "The Employment Pages". I love the effects used on the song. [5/5]

4. One of the catchiest, if not the catchiest song on the album. "Lowell, MA" is a track that no matter what mood you're in will make you grin. The chorus will be immediately drilled into your head the first time you hear it. Melodic guitar riffs and an interesting drum beat make the musical aspect of the song more appealing as well. [5/5]

5. I would say that "405" is the most over-produced song on the album. Though I've never heard it live, I imagine it would be much better, for it would lack all of the studio effects. It is a good song, but needs a better peak as well. [4/5]

6. "Little Fury Bugs" brings the tempo of the album back down at the right time. I would say it is the softest song on the album. The vocals have an odd sound over the single guitar that lasts about half-way through the song, yet it sounds great. When the drums come in, it definitely adds some more interest to the song. Smooth transition to the next song. [5/5]

7. When "Company Calls" builds after the segway of "Little Fury Bugs", you will feel replenished. It opens up the true second half of the album after a breakdown. Melodic guitar riffs stand out particularly, as this song is a great display of the entire band's instrumental skill. The vocals soar easily over, especially during the chorus. The buildups and breakdowns of the bridge are amazing. [5/5]

8. "Company Calls Epilogue" is a lyrical continuation of "Company Calls." However, the musical composition will remind you strongly of "Title Track" and "Little Fury Bugs", but not in a good way. It seems a repetition of past songs. However, the mellow music during the vocal build of the chorus adds a nice effect. [4/5]

9. "No Joy In Mudville" is an extremely unique song. Though the longest song on the album, and maybe the slowest, it fails to bore. The drums are extremely simplistic, but have a catchy beat, and are probably the shining strengh of the song. The building guitar and use of what sounds to be a xylophone adds, as to make a song you've never quite heard anything like before. The lyrics tell an amazing emotional tale of the desire to leave and start in a new town in upstate (assumably, New York.) My personal favorite. [5/5]

10. The end of the album. The volume swells add a great sound to the song. The vocals are great. I love the lyrics, as well."Scientist Studies" truly brings the album to a great close. Instead of leaving you mellowed and depressed, the album's end makes you grin, and give you the urge to hit that play button one more time. [5/5]


Overall, We Have The Facts and We're Voting Yes is in my opinion the best album Death Cab For Cutie has ever put out. For other true Death Cab For Cutie fans, I'd also recommend Transatlanticism. Not quite a similar album, but it is truly amazing. Comparable songs on it would be "Expo '86" and "The New Year". If you're looking for new Death Cab For Cutie, buy that. Or, if you're a fan of those songs on Transatlanticism, buy this album. As lead vocalist and guitarist Ben Gibbard played drums on all songs but "The Employment Pages" and "Company Calls Epilogue", I would say he is the best drummer the band has ever had. His skill far surpasses the previous drummer who quit during the early sessions of the album. If you are a musician such as myself into a more mellow, but still complex style of music, this album will be influential on your writing. Just to clarify though, this is not an "emo" album, and if you are buying it expecting it to be, it is not at all. Also, if you're looking for new music of similar styles, I'd recommend you check out Straylight Run and Elliott Smith. Hope this review helped you!

5 out of 5 stars reviewed by a devoted death cab fan.......2006-08-08

while i love transatlanticism and plans. i feel they are great for a band that is evolving musically. we have the facts however is by far my favorite release from the immortal death cab for cutie. songs like For What Reason and Title Track leave me with a twinkle in my eye its the two Company Calls songs that bring this album home. i see far too many reviews from people that are comparing this album to plans and the truth is that while plans is a great album. we have the facts makes that album look like top 40 garbage

5 out of 5 stars it's too bad this is receiving less than 5 stars.......2006-07-18

This band continues to impress and amaze me even though I have already listened to all of their albums. When I first listened to this album, I could have agreed with the somewhat negative reviews, but now I wouldn't have anything to do with them. The more you listen to Death Cabs CDs the more you will come to understand and respect the group and their work.

3 out of 5 stars Really Good Background Music, But Not Much More.......2006-07-16

This was my second Death Cab cd after Transatlanticism (third if you count Give Up). After those two masterpieces (Transatlanticism especially), I was expecting great things from We Have the Facts. As you can tell from my 3 star rating, I was somewhat disappointed.

I really like "Title Track" and "Company Calls Epilogue" but those are the only songs that really stick out at all for me. All the songs sound way too similar. The vocals are less clear than in their other albums, which hides Death Cab's greatest strength: Ben Gibbard's lyrics, which I barely notice here, but that might just be because I haven't listened to this album nearly as much as their others, and also because it's very easy to stop paying attention to We Have the Facts because the music is so similar and slow that it's easy to forget there's even music playing.

Still, this is Death Cab, and the music is pretty good when you're paying attention. Also, this is great background music to listen to while you do something else because it doesnt demand your full attention. But this definitely shouldn't be your first introduction to Death Cab. Transatlanticism is one of the best albums I've ever heard, and Plans is also significantly better than this. But still, We Have the Facts is worth an eventual listen.

3 out of 5 stars Death Cab roots.......2006-05-05

My first exposure to Death Cab was from Plans. Great album. I then moved to Transatlanticism. Another great record. My most recent purchase was this one, We Have The Facts.

On the surface, it's obvious this is Death Cab. Their sound is fairly unique. After several listens, though, I've decided that I definitely like their latest two releases much better.

This is a good album. Check out Title Track, Lowell MA, and Scientist Studies for more of what you love about Death Cab. I think the reason this release doesn't rate higher, though, is that it just doesn't stick out like their later releases.

Many have said that Death Cab has now "sold out". Puh-lease. Just because you sign with a major label, does that imply you have now sold out? I don't buy into that at all. The fact is that Death Cab has matured over the last several years.

If you're a Death Cab fan already, by all means, buy this. If you're not and you're looking for an entry point, you'd probably enjoy Transatlanticism or Plans much more. I do enjoy this, but it's better for background music while I'm working than for pure listening enjoyment. I'm still going to end up buying more of their older stuff, though.
Porgy & Bess (1959 Film Soundtrack)
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • Required listening. Sublime.
  • LONG-LOST SOUNDTRACK OF A TROUBLED MOVIE . . . . .
  • GREATEST PERFORMANCE OF GERSHWIN'S SCORE EVER!
Porgy & Bess (1959 Film Soundtrack)

Manufacturer: Back Biter
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B00002MY3V
Release Date: 1995-05-08

Tracks:

  1. Overture
  2. Summertime
  3. Woman Is A Sometime Thing
  4. Wake- Gone, Gone, Gone- Porgy's Prayer
  5. My Man's Gone Now
  6. I Got Plenty O' Nuttin'
  7. Bess, You Is My Woman Now
  8. Morning; Catfish Row
  9. I Can't Sit Down
  10. It Ain't Necessarily So
  11. I Ain't Got No Shame
  12. What Do You Want With Bess-
  13. Street Cries; Strawberry Woman; Crab Man
  14. I Loves You, Porgy
  15. Red-Headed Woman
  16. Clara, Clara
  17. There's A Boat That's Leavin' Soon For New York
  18. Oh, Where's My Bess-
  19. I'm On My Way

Album Description

The story behind the controversial 1959 film adaptation of Gershwin's Porgy & Bess is a strange one. In the film starring Sidney Poitier and Dorothy Dandridge, director Otto Preminger took artistic license against Gershwin's wishes and the Gershwin estate eventually pulled the film from circulation and it has not been seen in over 30 years (although bootleg copies are sure to exist). The film's soundtrack itself has been called 'the definitive version' of Porgy & Bess and was arranged and conducted by Andre Previn. Vocalists include Cab Calloway, Pearl Bailey, Robert McFerrin (Bobby's father), Adele Addison and many others. A spectacular version of this 'opera', one that makes you long to see the withdrawn film. Bacbi.

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Required listening. Sublime........2007-05-13

Cab Calloway, as Sportin' Life, steals the recording. (For contractual reasons, he had to replace Sammy Davis Jr.(?), who was in the film. Lucky for us.)
Despite the Gershwins' own criticism, I believe this is the definitive version of the opera.
Let's hold our breath for the release of the film.
~!an

4 out of 5 stars LONG-LOST SOUNDTRACK OF A TROUBLED MOVIE . . . . . .......2007-03-20

This 1995 CD from the German Back Bite label is a curious release. The occasional ticks and pops indicate that it is an LP-transfer to which too much noise reduction has been applied. The tape hiss is gone, but so are the upper ambient frequencies, giving it a peculiar "boxed-in" sound. Recorded in stereo, it has a very nice spatial feel with the orchestra placed behind the singers. However, at times the chorus seems too distant, too far away from the action. (Sounds great in the car, however.)

I agree wholeheartedly with Michael Portantiere's comments in The TheaterMania Guide to Musical Theater Recordings: ". . . Cab Calloway['s] . . . engaging performances . . . lack the sense of menace that the character needs. Despite its flaws, this recording is worth tracking down if only for baritone Robert McFerrin's extraordinary performance of Porgy's music . . . and Adelle Addison's lovely singing for Dandridge . . . both rein in their operatic voices for the film but they still sing beatifully, under the tasteful, respectful musical direction of Andre Previn and Ken Darby."

Perhaps Ms. Addison "reins in" her voice just a bit too much; I would have preferred a little more passion, especially in "What You Want With Bess?" and "I Loves You Porgy." (For an excellent example of "stage vs. movie" singing, compare Giorgio Tozzi's Emile De Beque on the 1959 film soundtrack of SOUTH PACIFIC and the 1976 Lincoln Center Cast recording.)

Not having seen the film, I can only assume that director Otto Preminger softened the roles of Bess and Sportin' Life to conform to the regulations of Hollywood's infamous Production Code (aka the Hayes Office). It most certainly would have been denied a code of approval if two of the major characters were a whiskey-guzzling "easy" woman and a drug dealing pimp - especially since neither had to "pay for their sins." Preminger challenged the Code with three other films - The Moon Is Blue (1953), the first film to use the words "virgin," "seduce," and "mistress;" The Man with the Golden Arm (1955), a film which graphically dealt with drug abuse; Anatomy of a Murder (1959), rape is the central issue - but I have a feeling he played it safe with Porgy, a major studio Samuel Goldwyn Production. (For further information about the film, go to the ISAM [Institute for Studies of American Music] website at htpp://depthome.brooklyn.cuny.edu/isam.)

Because Ira Gershwin and the Gershwin estate were unhappy with Preminger's film treatment, rights to the movie were rescinded during the 70s. As a result, the film has never been legally transferred to video and only a few public showings have been allowed. When the hassles regarding the film are finally settled, hopefully the engineers at Sony/BMG will track down the original master tapes and produce a truly fine restoration of this long-lost movie soundtrack. All the proper ingredients are there; they just have to be pulled together.

Additional weirdness abounds on the CD's sleeve. None of the singers are listed - (Pearl Bailey and Brock Peters did their own singing, Loulie Jean Norman dubbed Clara's songs, and Inez Matthews sang the role of Serena. Sammy Davis, Jr. also sang his own songs, but Cab Calloway replaced him on the recording - due to contractural reasons) - and all of the photos are from some unidentified production of the opera, not from the movie. This recording may not be perfect, but right now it's all we have.

Recommended.

5 out of 5 stars GREATEST PERFORMANCE OF GERSHWIN'S SCORE EVER!.......2002-08-30

One of the greatest crimes ever committed against the music and video buying public is the Gershwin Estate's denial to us of seeing and hearing and, most important of all, judging for ourselves, the merits of the Samuel Goldwyn film of PORGY AND BESS. Even worse, today's video buyers have to suffer through a boring, execrable EMI video made for public television in order to view PORGY AND BESS, thereby seeing Gershwin's masterpiece in the worst possible light. The 1959 film starred Sidney Poitier and Dorothy Dandridge, but both had their songs dubbed by operatic singers. Unlike the long out of print American Columbia sound track LP, this CD import actually credits the voice of Robert McFerrin (the father of jazz singer Bobby McFerrin) as Porgy. Still uncredited are singers Adele Addison (Bess), Loulie Jean Norman (Clara) and Inez Matthews (Serena). A special treat on this album is Cab Calloway as "Sportin' Life", who replaces Sammy Davis Jr. from the film, whose voice could not be used on the sound track album due to his exclusive contract with another record label. Calloway is far better suited to this role and his performance adds an edge to the character missing in Davis' more comic turn in the film. Calloway's vocals are backed up by the identical orchestral tracks (conducted by Andre Previn) used in the film for Davis. Although this version of Porgy and Bess was not well liked by the Gershwin family because it was treated more as a Broadway Musical than an opera, this film was immensely popular in its time and has gained stature over the years. The film was recently named one of the 100 greatest film love stories by the American Film Institute. The release of this matchless film on home video would be a cause for rejoicing. Andre Previn's conducting and especially Ken Darby's excellent choral direction have never been bettered in any performance of PORGY AND BESS. The 1959 sound track contains all the major musical sequences from the film and is arguably the finest version of Gershwin's score ever released to the music buying public. Amazingly, this album has never been released in the US on CD (with very limited distribution elsewhere). This import CD offers the most ideal way of hearing this magnificent sound track music short of a domestic CD release.
Are You Hep to the Jive?
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • All reet!
  • essential
  • Just an amazing album to hear and have!
  • A Serious Artist Having A Jiving Good Time For All Circa 1939
  • These Cats Can Swing!
Are You Hep to the Jive?
Cab Calloway
Manufacturer: Sony
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

GeneralGeneral | Jazz | Styles | Music
Swing GeneralSwing General | Swing Jazz | Jazz | Styles | Music
Classic Big BandClassic Big Band | Swing Jazz | Jazz | Styles | Music
Contemporary Big BandContemporary Big Band | Swing Jazz | Jazz | Styles | Music
Vocal Jazz GeneralVocal Jazz General | Vocal Jazz | Jazz | Styles | Music
Jive JazzJive Jazz | Jazz | Styles | Music
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CDs $7 - $10CDs $7 - $10 | Swing Jazz | Jazz | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music
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CDs $7 - $10CDs $7 - $10 | Vocal Jazz | Jazz | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music
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  1. The Best of Louis Jordan
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  3. The Very Best of Big Joe Turner
  4. Let The Good Times Roll: The Anthology 1938-1953
  5. Jukebox Hits: 1930-1950

ASIN: B0000029FN
Release Date: 1994-08-09

Tracks:

  1. Boo-Wah Boo-Wah
  2. Are You All Reet?
  3. Hey Now, Hey Now
  4. Everybody Eats When They Come To My House
  5. Are You Hep To The Jive?
  6. The Calloway Boogie
  7. Hep Cat's Love Song
  8. Papa's In Bed With His Britches On
  9. Song Of The Islands: What's Buzzin' Cousin
  10. Twee-Twee-Tweet
  11. Come On With The 'Come On'
  12. Chant Of The Jungle
  13. I Want To Rock
  14. Oh! Gram'pa
  15. The Jungle King (You Ain't Done A Doggone Thing)
  16. Don't Falter At The Alter
  17. Who's Yehoodi?
  18. A Chicken Ain't Nothin' But A Bird
  19. Tarzan Of Harlem
  20. Minnie The Moocher
  21. Boog It
  22. Foo A Little Bally-Hoo

Amazon.com

The influence of Cab Calloway simply cannot be understated. He was present at the genesis of R&B, rock, hip-hop, swing, and jazz, and his contributions shaped the way the world hears pop music. Thankfully, this task fell upon the zoot-suited shoulders of an artist of wit, intelligence, energy, and the ability to connect one-on-one with his audience. This collection includes tracks from the late '30s up to the late '40s and offers listeners a taste of all Calloway's incredible talents. From his hepster raps like "Are You All Reet?" to his hits like "Minnie the Moocher," Calloway's performances are carefully orchestrated yet loose-limbed and sparkling with humor, and for recordings in mono, the sound is surprisingly good. Highly recommended. --S. Duda

Customer Reviews:

4 out of 5 stars All reet!.......2007-03-07

The twenty-two tracks on CAB CALLOWAY * ARE YOU HEP TO THE JIVE? were recorded between 1939 and 1947, and are drawn from the COLUMBIA, OKEH and VOCALION archives. One wonders why 1950's "Jumpin' Jive" isn't here as well-- it would fit nicely. Three songs within this set, "What's Buzzin' Cousin," "Chant Of The Jungle" and "Don't Falter At The Altar" are previously unreleased material.

These old 78s have been meticulously remastered, and the transfers have a lot of presence. Truth is, the pre-hi-fi records of the 1940's sounded darn good, as this album clearly demonstrates. Regarding the performances: the mature Calloway was as vital as in his Cotton Club days, but with the advantage of clean sound and a little polish. Widely dismissed as a novelty act for the masses by contemporary jazz critics, Cab clearly deserves a reassessment. He had it all: popularity, pizzazz, presence and poise. Whether zoot-suited or in a spotless white tux, Calloway was always nothing less than great. He was a groovy cat, Jackson-- are you hep?

The twelve-page booklet contains a bio, vintage photos and recording dates for all tracks. Recommended for all fans of swing, jive and '40s dance music.

TOTAL RUNNING TIME -- 62:47

5 out of 5 stars essential.......2007-01-10

A good representation of the man and his underrated music. He expresses parts of music unfamiliar to modern ears; showmanship, kindness and good humor. A chicken ain't nothin but a bird knocks me out.

5 out of 5 stars Just an amazing album to hear and have!.......2005-11-17

If you've never heard of Cab Calloway, or even if you are quite familiar with him; this CD is for you if you don't have it yet.

This CD collection is packed with some of the most toe-tapping, sing-along, swinging songs you could ever hope to find. If it doesn't get you out of your seat and dancing to the wonderful melodies, check your pulse because you might not be breathing.

I have quite a nice sized collection of different Cab Calloway CD's in my music collection, and this one has them all beat with a great song selection that I haven't seen elsewhere. Everyone should find a few songs here that they recognize. "Minnie the Moocher" from "The Blues Brothers" movie, "Everyone Eats When they Come to My House" was used a few years ago in a TV commercial.

I couldn't recommend this wonderful sounding CD more highly then I do!

5 out of 5 stars A Serious Artist Having A Jiving Good Time For All Circa 1939.......2005-08-22

Not only are we talking shuck and jive but great American music swinging away freely fronted by the unique Cab..a cross between a huckster and true band leader making no bones about his wit and value.The music is great jazz not unlike Ellington and Basie in their swing but in the attitude that so preceeded the idea of being some cool cat so emulated later by rock stars such as David Johanson, Peter Wolf even Mick Jagger's posturing incorporating their own rap and lingo but clearly influenced by the self promotion of this man,Cab.Yet,the music swings like a Basie or Duke with GREAT musicians.
These songs are all killer material...Cab was already recording 10 years earlier..these tracks are all from 1939 -1947..an interesting time indeed...if you are a not a serious fan of Jazz or Big Band but appreciate anachronistic culture and the sense of the 1940's you have to check this long playing bargain cd.

5 out of 5 stars These Cats Can Swing!.......2005-05-21

If you own only one Cab Calloway CD this should be the one. This band kicks the back beat & never lets go & Cab himself is so cool. What impressed me was the generous amount of CD cuts for the price. the quality of the playing/singing by Cab coupled with absolutely terrific audio quality much better than other original period swing band CD's. Listen to the jive brother!
Something About Airplanes
Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
  • I need more Death Cab!!!
  • Overall review of Death Cab For Cutie
  • Great Product!
  • this has nothing to do with airplanes
  • Favorite DCFC album
Something About Airplanes
Death Cab for Cutie
Manufacturer: Barsuk
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

GeneralGeneral | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music
Indie RockIndie Rock | Indie & Lo-Fi | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music
Twee PopTwee Pop | Indie & Lo-Fi | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music
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ASIN: B00000FY5E
Release Date: 1998-08-18

Tracks:

  1. bend to squares
  2. president of what?
  3. champagne from a paper cup
  4. your bruise
  5. pictures in an exhibition
  6. sleep spent
  7. the face that launched 1000 shits
  8. amputations
  9. fake frowns
  10. line of best fit.

Amazon.com

The first instrument you notice upon listening to Something About Airplanes is the cello on "Bend to Squares." It fades out, soon enough replaced by the familiar electric guitar, but it sets this album's offbeat mood. Experimentation and pop hooks strike a perfect balance on this debut from the Bellingham, Washington-based Death Cab for Cutie. The quartet follow in the fine tradition of area emo-pop bands like Modest Mouse, 764-HERO, and Built to Spill, but it's hard not to notice bits of Quasi and the Beatles popping up. Of course, the Death Cab formula is a bit different--"President of What?" is driven by Farfisa, not Fender; "Champagne from a Paper Cup" is a slow-burner--there's not much pop glee found in a song that begins "I think I'm Drunk Enough to Drive You Home Now"; and--every once in a while--the oddball vocal sample kicks in (presumably from a long-forgotten movie, a la vintage Jawbreaker). It all makes for a brilliant debut and a fine addition to the canon of Northwest emo-pop late-'90s style. --Jason Verlinde

Album Description

It's no exaggeration to say 'Something About Airplanes' is the future of music. Melodic pop that falls somewhere between American Analog Set & Imperial Teen. Elsinor/Barsuk.

Customer Reviews:

4 out of 5 stars I need more Death Cab!!!.......2006-06-17

What a joy it is to be turned on or to discover music from an artist you're hearing for the first time. I literally stumbled onto Death Cab For Cutie, just passing time in an FYE. I picked up "Something About Airplanes" and thought I'd give a random listen. Needless to say, the incredible melodies, and compelling lyrical content immediately got me open. DCFC bears a strong resemblance to another favorite band of mine, Built To Spill. Lead singer Ben Gibbard's delivery is almost dead on for BTS's Doug Martsch's wailing, melancholy tone. That's a good thing to me, as the same things that drew me in to BTS also seemed to have me ready to expand the Death Cab collection to include their other releases. But S.A.A is a great place to start if you're new to this band like me, "Bend To Squares", "Champagne From A Paper Cup", and "Amputations" are all perfect examples of indy rock done right. The titles of the songs are something else. (The Face That Launched 1000 S****??) I've heard from a lot of DCFC fans who say that this isn't even close to their best album. (Plans was mentioned a lot) If that's the case, my pockets might be in real trouble. Looking forward to the next time they're in Philly!

5 out of 5 stars Overall review of Death Cab For Cutie.......2006-04-24

This style of music is what I have been looking for my entire life, I just haven't known. This band has brought something to the table that I really enjoy. The very first sample I heard of Ben Gibbard was, "Don't wake me, I plan on sleeping in". That barely audible tune that I heard while off the coast of Africa is what set it off. I searched and searched and now have almost all of their CDs. I Love Plans, it's an amazing CD. Translantisicm trails it, but not by much. I am now listening to Something About Airplanes. I take each CD one at a time. I will listen to only one CD, over and over until I am familiar with all of the tracks, it is then that I decide on what I think about the CD, I sort of invest time into each CD. I'm still working on "Airplanes". It has it's ups and downs, while the other two I mentioned are constant ups. Of course all reviews are opinions, so give all of Death Cab's albums a try to see what you think. I look forward finishing "Airplanes" and starting with the next.

5 out of 5 stars Great Product!.......2005-10-05

If you like Death Cab, you'll love this CD! It is a good reference to before Death Cab somewhat sold out. I'd reccomend this to anyone!

2 out of 5 stars this has nothing to do with airplanes.......2005-08-29

This C.D. is probably the best constructed of Death Cab For Cutie's albums in my opinion, for it has the most variety and has more complex rock than on some of its other more soft releases. Its lyrics aren't quite as well articulated as those on the album "Transatlanticism", but it's hard to remember that while paying attention to the catchy rhythms and sound effects that transpire in nearly every featured song. Styles range from long mystic tunes like "Line of Best Fit" to fairly energetic ones like the one I'd recommend most: "President of What". This track has good lyrics and rhythms, as well as a unique guitar progression that is rather catchy. Besides this song, most of the songs have a rippling guitar effect or some sort of technological jest to go with the music. Negative sides of the album are that the C.D. has nothing to do with airplanes, it has unrequired language in some instances, and does not have loads and loads of interesting melodies. Still, some tracks are likeable and if nothing else admirable for there uniqueness in comparison to the other featured songs. I would not suggest the purchase of this album, but overall it isn't horribly bad.
I recommend:
President of What?
Champagne From A Paper Cup

5 out of 5 stars Favorite DCFC album.......2005-05-31

When you listen to a cd, why do you listen to it? Simply because it sounds cool, or you enjoy how it relaxes you, or it fits a certain atmosphere? If that's how you listen to cd's, don't bother getting this album. I wouldn't want you to. This album is best enjoyed by those who listen to something because they get the feeling inside of it. I don't know why so many people here call this album pop and lighthearted. I completely disagree. The lyrics are not particularly dark, as opposed to maybe, lyrics from Alice in Chains' "Dirt", but they aren't exactly happy either. I absolutely love them. "Sleep Spent" is a great song. There is a lot more to this album than everyone seems to let on. The key to DCFC's music is that it takes a lot of listening before you actually get it, and the emotional value begins to sink in. I have been listening for three years, and just in the last six months or so, has the meaning of their music, the emotion behind it, the depression, sadness, and confusion finally begin to show themselves through the tone of Ben's voice and the guitar riffs. I'm not suggesting this is a depressing album, in fact it's rather comforting. Most of their albums are.
Music for a Darkened Theatre, Vol. 1: Film & Television Music
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • Great compilation - and that's just the first half.
  • The best of Elfman!!!
  • Great Collection, A LIttle Too Eclectic
  • What Great Music
  • super
Music for a Darkened Theatre, Vol. 1: Film & Television Music

Manufacturer: Fontana Mca
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Elfman, DannyElfman, Danny | ( E ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
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ASIN: B000002OEB
Release Date: 1990-10-15

Tracks:

  1. Excerpts From: Pee Wee's Big Adventure
  2. Excerpts From: Batman
  3. Excerpts From: Dick Tracy
  4. Excerpts From: Beetlejuice
  5. Excerpts From: Nightbreed
  6. Excerpts From: Darkman
  7. Excerpts From: Back To School
  8. Excerpts From: Midnight Run
  9. Excerpts From: Wisdom
  10. Excerpts From: Hot To Trot
  11. Excerpts From: Big Top Pee Wee
  12. Excerpts From: The Simpsons
  13. Excerpts From: Alfred Hitchcock Presents: The Jar
  14. Excerpts From: Tales From The Crypt
  15. Excerpts From: Face Like A Frog
  16. Excerpts From: Forbidden Zone
  17. Excerpts From: Scrooged

Customer Reviews:

4 out of 5 stars Great compilation - and that's just the first half........2005-09-14

I first got this on cassette in the summer of '94 and listened to it every day, drawn by its thematic range and compositional depth. And that was just side-one.

Elfman pioneered the sound that drives today's movie adaptations of comic-books and darker-themed children's stories. Side-One kicks things off with a rollicking, hyper-cartoonish theme from the first Pee-Wee movie - the one where Pee-Wee searches for his beloved bike. Elfman's theme contains layers of different rides - on tightropes, highways, in the middle of a NASCAR rally - which rudely yet melodically crash into each other.

The Batman entry actually contains several pieces - the opening credits, the extended sequence in the cathedral and the climax - which show Batman's darkened extreme at its "Frank Miller" best. (Dir. Tim Burton couldn't sustain the mood in the next sequel, and the franchise took a turn towards the camp of the TV series with the next 2 movies.)

The theme for "Dick Tracy" is perhaps the most romantic on this disc, a quality that surpasses the theme's comic-book origins, but ends on an ironic note that's pure Elfman.

"Beetlejuice" (opening & closing credits) gives Elfman's childish ID a chance to stretch its legs, or in this case, slam-dance.

"Nightbreed" is an enigma wrapped in a dark mystery, and that's just Elfman's score. Elfman's work on this movie is as good as the movie wasn't, having a more powerful narrative than the script - easily the best track on the entire disc, one likely to exceed the movie in its dose of chills.

"Darkman" doesn't quite rise to the occasion, though the score may be hobbled by the movie itself, which seldom surpassed one of the many "Batman" clones of the early 1990's. "Darkman" (the movie, I mean) excelled as a parody of many comicbook staples (the wronged hero, the relentless villain, the scientific breakthrough with just one flaw), but not enough to escape being largely anonymous. Within those constraints, it's still a moving if scary piece.

When is Elfman not like Elfman? When he was in the mid-late `80's and scored "Back to School" (A Rodney Dangerfield vehicle) and "Midnight Run". Horns in "School" bring it closer to Elfman's over-the-top style, while "Run" sounds like a love-theme for the run-down, out-of-the-way parts of America that seldom appear in Elfman-movies. "Run" is a fun score for a fun movie - it's nothing like Elfman's previous work but it perfectly captures the on-the-road-without-a-map craziness of the movie.

To this day, I don't know why I never ventured to Side-two, but it's irrelevant. Even half this disc is worth it

5 out of 5 stars The best of Elfman!!!.......2005-09-05

I was obsessed about getting this CD right from when I heard about it. I found it at the library and was so excited about it, and it didn't let me down. In fact, it was a lot better than I expected. It's a fun and creepy (strange mix, but it really works!) collection of Danny Elfman's film and television soundtracks. The first track, Pee Wee's Big Adventure, is probably my favorite. Also, I really like Batman and Wisdom. Batman is creepy and dark, and Wisdom is just weird, in the best possible way.
I'd recommend this to anyone who likes film music, or everyone who is even the tiniest bit an Elfman fan. It's amazing!

4 out of 5 stars Great Collection, A LIttle Too Eclectic.......2003-08-19

You should be able to tell from the movies and TV shows listed here whether or not you'd be interested in this collection. It's a little too eclectic for my tastes (hence only 4 stars) but better than volume 2. I think thatthe miscellaneous collected ites here along with the previously unreleased stuff should make this worth buying. Especially if you're a fan of Elfman's movie soundtrack work.

5 out of 5 stars What Great Music.......2003-05-11

I fell in love with the music of Danny Elfman when Beetlejuice came out. There was something different about the music that he made. When Edward Scissorhands, and then Nightmare Before Christmas - I knew this man was a musical master. Its the verbal form of surrealism.

5 out of 5 stars super.......2003-04-17

What a great CD. Danny's music is so original and inventive. this CD contains his pre 90's quirky, gothic music. it's all very well written and beautifully orchestrated. batman and darkman contain some really excellent long, dark, gothic cues that really take u away from reality. in my opinion no one, apart from howard shore, is as inventive and original as danny in the world of filmmusic. he far surpasses the repetitive works of williams or horner. buy this, and volume two, and keep supporting one of the greatest film composers of all time.ohh...and buy fellowship of the ring and two towers by howard shore....amazing work!
You Can Play These Songs with Chords
Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
  • Well worth a listen, or two, or three
  • DCFC really does have something for everybody.
  • Recommended For Fans Only
  • DCFC's Best Album
  • An Acquired Taste
You Can Play These Songs with Chords
Death Cab for Cutie
Manufacturer: Barsuk
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

GeneralGeneral | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music
Indie RockIndie Rock | Indie & Lo-Fi | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music
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ASIN: B00006L3PW
Release Date: 2002-10-22

Tracks:

  1. President of What?
  2. Champagne from a Paper Cup
  3. Pictures in an Exhibition
  4. Hindsight
  5. That's Incentive
  6. Amputations
  7. Two Cars
  8. Line of Best Fit
  9. This Charming Man
  10. TV Trays
  11. New Candles
  12. Tomorrow
  13. Flustered/Hey Tomcat
  14. State Street Residential
  15. Wait
  16. Prove My Hypotheses
  17. Song for Kelly Huckaby
  18. Army Corps of Architects

Album Description

Full Title - You Can Play These Songs With Chords. Album includes Out-Of-Print rarities and never-before released songs. 18 tracks. Barsuk Records. 2002.

Customer Reviews:

4 out of 5 stars Well worth a listen, or two, or three.......2007-05-31

Most of the tracks on this offering are lo-fi and just full of washed-out, Pacific Northwest, dreary-day angst. This sound is distinctive from the brighter, fuller sound on their more recent releases. The last 10 tracks are bonus (compiled from various releases), including a Smiths cover, a glitzy-pop dance song, a sample-heavy track with a hint of hip hop rhythms, and a lovely closer.

I've come to regard this album as one of my favorites. It is an intensely honest, brazenly youthful, at times lonesome, and ultimately accomplished and varied gathering of tracks. A strong sense of time and place (geographical references abound), a personal remoteness balanced with sense of warmth, and a love of city and home run throughout. It takes such a long time to absorb and to get to know the album that by the time you do, you can't help but have a strong affection for it.

5 out of 5 stars DCFC really does have something for everybody........2006-05-17

This album takes you on a ride just as the other dcfc albums do...you are mesmerised from track 1 until the end. my personal favorites are "president of what", "champagne from a paper cup", "pictures in an exhibition", and "amputations" (although i like the "something about airplanes" versions of these songs more). But, to speak of favorite songs with this band is irrelevant for most true fans because every song is enjoyable in one way or another. I haven't heard one that I don't like.

5 out of 5 stars Recommended For Fans Only.......2006-02-03

This is a collection of Barsuk Record's DCFC rarities and unreleased songs. This contains some of their earliest work, before they developed their sophisticated style of indie rock. After having listened to all of their albums, this album is the "rawest". The layered production of their later work is gone, although the catchy hooks and energy of the band shines through. DCFC is one of the most unique and individual indie bands to emerge in years, and their influence of ska, and punk come through. President of What, Champagne From a Paper Cup, Pictures In An Exhibition, Amputations,and Line of Best Fit all were rerecorded for their first album Something About Airplanes. This Charming Man is a Smith's cover, my favorite songs are State Street Residential, and Army Corps of Engineers, and Song For Kelly Huckaby. At 18 songs, this is still a good listen. There is a great balance of fast and slow songs. It is interesting to see how much of a rock band DCFC was in the beginning and how they've grown.

5 out of 5 stars DCFC's Best Album.......2005-03-25

I might get a lot of negative responses from this review, but in my opinion this is the best album Death Cab has produced. It is very complete, well thought out, and each song says something. I have been a Death Cab fan for a long time, and have every single album they have produced, listened to each one countless times, and this one strikes me as their best one. Maybe this doesnt get the appreciation it deserves because not every fan has this album. Give this cd a chance and listen to each song carefully, and you will see what i'm talking about. Trust Me.

4 out of 5 stars An Acquired Taste.......2004-11-28

I evidently didn't listen to the advice given here when I bought this CD as my first Death Cab for Cutie purchase. I agree, some songs are a bit odd at first (I thought some sounded like Beatles songs) but after a few listens I really like this album. Highlights are Predesident of What?, Champagne from a Paper Cup, Hindsight, and TV Trays.
Forbidden Love
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • Great beginning, typical ep trappings end
  • Visual, Visceral, Cinematic Songs
  • Beautiful Indie Pop Rock
  • Good for fans, and maybe others
  • favorite DCFC CD!
Forbidden Love
Death Cab for Cutie
Manufacturer: Barsuk
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

GeneralGeneral | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music
Indie RockIndie Rock | Indie & Lo-Fi | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Indie & Lo-Fi | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Rock | Styles | Music
Pop RockPop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music
Indie & Lo FiIndie & Lo Fi | Alternative Rock | Indie Music | Stores | Music
4-for-3 Alternative Rock4-for-3 Alternative Rock | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music
4-for-3 Pop4-for-3 Pop | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music
4-for-3 Rock4-for-3 Rock | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music
4-for-3 All Music4-for-3 All Music | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music
Similar Items:
  1. Plans
  2. The John Byrd E.P.
  3. HOME: Volume 5
  4. We Laugh Indoors
  5. Sound of Settling

ASIN: B000050824
Release Date: 2000-10-24

Tracks:

  1. Photobooth
  2. Technicolor Girls
  3. Song For Kelly Huckaby
  4. 405 (Acoustic)
  5. Company Calls Epilogue (Alternate)

Album Description

EP features 3 brand new songs plus two alternative versions from 'We Have The Facts And We're Voting Yes'. Barsuk Records.

Customer Reviews:

3 out of 5 stars Great beginning, typical ep trappings end.......2006-10-03

3 1/2

Great first half, captures Deathcab doing what they do best, much less effortlessly then in recent times. Last few songs die down a bit since the last is just an alternate, which makes this essential for fans, but not everyone, although quite good ep.

4 out of 5 stars Visual, Visceral, Cinematic Songs.......2006-07-27

Much like their following full length Photo Album, Forbidden Love is five cinematic snapshots of things slightly unrequited. "Deadcab for what?" was my reaction when the owner of a local indy record store first brought this EP into the coffeeshop where i worked in 2000, which seems like a hopelessly naive reaction after a half-decade when Ben Gibbard and company have proven themselves to be one of the most solid groups of songwriters in modern rock.

The lyrics of "Photobooth" tumble out over a tinny drum loop like a series of those tiny square photos from a tiny curtained room. Each line conjures a picture of skinny-dipping or living out on the lawn as a friendship veers into summer love and then just as quickly veers out, leaving just that strip of pictures to document the moment of shared longing.

"405" could be about the same relationship, but rather than focusing on an artifact it peers across the distance between the two actors, now represented by the distance of a lengthy highway. This acoustic take offers a vastly different mood than the electric album version - the bouncy guitar picking and Ben's delicate delivery is immediately reminiscent of Elliott Smith.

It's hard to describe what about each of these five Death Cab For Cutie songs makes them so visually evocative. The songs are exactly like movies - not about a theme or a riff or even a single line of dialogue, but about the the story they allow you to voyeuristically live in for a brief four minutes. It's something about a focus on details like floorboards and wedding cakes, lips and fiber optics, while guitars and keyboards are woven together to form an impenetrable bed of rolling electric noise for reminisced lyrics to glide over.

5 out of 5 stars Beautiful Indie Pop Rock.......2006-02-03

After We Have The Facts, DCFC released the five song Forbidden Love EP. "Photobooth" is arguably the greatest DCFC song yet. A catchy, poppy, ballad about love lost, Photobooth captures such a timeless quality-everything that makes DCFC such a great band. Technicolor Girls is another original song that demonstrates their talent for meandering guitar riffs and heartfelt lyrics, "Song For Kelly Huckaby" is another original that is the second strongest song on the album. Ben Gibbard's hauntingly delicate voice has never been more powerful. Layered over heavy but delicate percussion, this song is the most raw. Two of the strongest songs From "We Have The Facts" are Featured- An Acoustic version of 405 is very well done, and an alternate take of Company Calls Epilogue which I think is more successful than the first release. Definetely a must have for fans and highly recommended for everyone.

4 out of 5 stars Good for fans, and maybe others .......2005-10-11

Before I review this EP, you might want to know about my credentials. I am not now, or ever have been: a fan of indie. I have known about this band for quite some time now. But, I never really stopped to take a good listen. After a while though, their prescence got the best of me, and I decided to purchase this EP to see what these dudes were all about, and what a pleasant experience it was.

The disc opens up with the catchy technical drumbeat intro of "photobooth". A song littered with mellow keyboards, calming guitar picking and lyrically soothing goodness. I quickly decided that simply because of that one song, this band was a winner. I realize that photobooth is in most people's oppinion the best on here, but it's enough to make this CD worthwhile. As for the other tracks... Well, i'm getting to them.

After photobooth comes the even slower and less upbeat "technicolor girls". For some reason this song didn't do it for me. I suspect that's because I'm used to much more upbeat stuff. (I.E. punk, hardcore) I'd like to think that fans of indie rock would like this very much.
Next in line if the drawny "Song for Kelly Huckaby". This track in my oppinion has some very fine guitarwork and nice vocal effects. It's sort of sad like the last two songs but still gets me smiling.

"405" is an acoustic relapse of another Death cab song I havent even heard. I enjoyed it greatly and was glad to hear a happier and upbeat song on here. Lastly, Company calls finishes up this EP. The drumbeat on here is really cool and lyrics really standout from the rest. All in all a great finisher.

I found that this EP was a bit more mellow and poppy than their other stuff I've heard, which sounds more indie-rockish. I'm glad I bought this, I even went on to purchase "we have the facts" a couple weeks after. Although this isn't a genre a music I particularly spend a lot of time in, I think anyone can enjoy these songs, no matter what their tastes. there wasn't a single song here that I didn't enjoy in some way. I would also recommend this highly to anyone wanting to get into this band, but don't know where to start.

7/10 score for catchy vibes, good lyrics, and some innovation here and there. Very flattering EP...

5 out of 5 stars favorite DCFC CD!.......2004-06-13

THis is my ultimate Fav DCFC cd...photobooth is the best song they have ever done, and i love it!!!

Meditation Music:

  1. Celebration: Party Music
  2. Christmas Unleashed
  3. Cloud Nine
  4. Days of Innocence [Import]
  5. Deceptive Bends [Extra tracks] [Original recording remastered] [Import]
  6. Definitive Rolf Harris [Original recording remastered] [Import]
  7. Destiny Fulfilled [DualDisc]
  8. Everytime [CD-single] [Import]
  9. Falco 3 [Import]
  10. Flying Without Wings/Superstar [CD-single] [Enhanced]

Meditation Music

meditation music

Meditation Music

Brand New Day: The Remixes [Import]

Last Piano Works

Madrigal Masterpieces

Music: Dream Cafe

Nu Funk [Import]

M.S.N [CD-single] [Import]

Longbox [Box set] [Import]

Other Voices//Full Circle [Import]

New Tricks

Massenet: Manon

Liberate the Radio Stations

Librame

Llamame Yanko

Just for Kids: Sing a Long Praise

The Best of Bread