Ink [Explicit Lyrics]

Ink [Explicit Lyrics]

Track Listings

1. Ink

2. Subterania

3. Whippin' Time

4. World on Display

5. Run

6. Age and Treachery

7. Stone Dirt Cowboy

8. Water Song

9. Back to the Bottom

10. Back to the Bottom

11. Take a Lickin'

Editorial Reviews
About the Artist
In 1984, New York club band, turned original act, T.T. Quick released a self-titled E.P. on the now legendary Megaforce Records label.

The record was received with critical acclaim around the world and sold quite well.

In 1986, the band, along with new powerhouse drummer Erik Ferro, signed to Island Records and released their first major L.P. "Metal of Honor." Again, the critics raved. An underground worldwide buzz had begun.

They left Island Records in 1987 in search of a label that would support them, but were stopped short when Erik was forced to leave the band due to family illness. He returned home to New Orleans indefinitely, which left the New Jersey-based Quick drummerless and downhearted. After searching for a new drummer, the band decided that "Erock" Ferro was irreplaceable and they disbanded.

The four remained fast friends through the years, did periodic reunion shows to the delight of New York area audiences and even had two more "indie" releases. In 1989 they released a short studio L.P. entitled "Sloppy Seconds" and in '91 a live album recorded at one show and released with no overdubs. These were very low budget projects but were still well received by college radio and metal shows throughout the world.

All four members played in different projects but none that matched the magic of T.T. Quick.

Now, in 2000, Quick is back, hungrier and more pissed off than ever. The pounding "Bonhamesque" drums of "Erock," the foundational thrust of bass from Walt Fortune, the often imitated but never duplicated guitar explosion of David Dipietro and the searing vocal rasp of Mark Tornillo are reunited on their new album "Ink." Eleven brand new tracks expressing the anger, humor and satire through which they view the world. The title track explores the differences between tattooed people and the colorfully impaired.

So play it loud because it's raunchy, it's meaty, it's heavy and it's unmistakably T.T. Quick!

POINTS OF INTEREST

• David Dipietro was voted "Best Unsigned Guitar Player" by Guitar Player Magazine twice.

• David has been a guitar instructor for 15 years. His notable students include Zak Wylde (Ozzy) and Dave Sabo (Skid Row).

• T.T. Quick opened and closed the legendary rock capital of Brooklyn, "L'Amour," and was the first hard rock band to ever headline at "Studio 54."

• T.T. Quick has shared bills or toured with bands including Ted Nugent, Megadeth, Motorhead, Iron Maiden, Grand Funk Railroad, Loudness, Accept, Raven, Metallica and Quiet Riot.

• T.T. Quick has been called the "Most Famous Unknown Band in the World."

Product Description
Raunchy, meaty heavy metal which features the talents of guitar virtuoso Dave DiPietro (guitar instructor whose most notable students include Zakk Wylde). 2000 release. Standard jewel case.

Ink [Explicit Lyrics]

Tracks:

God Put A Smile Upon Your Face (featuring The Daptone Horns)
Oh My God (featuring Lily Allen)
Stop Me (featuring Daniel Merriweather)
Toxic (featuring Tiggers)
Valerie (featuring Amy Winehouse)
Apply Some Pressure (featuring Paul Smith)
Inversion
Pretty Green (featuring Santo Gold)
. Just (featuring (Phantom Planet)
Amy (featuring Kenna)
The Only One I Know (featuring Robbie Williams
Diversion
L.S.F. (featuring Kasabian)
Outversion

Amazon.com

Following up his success in helping produce Amy Winehouse's Back to Black, Mark Ronson's second solo project covers a series of mostly British indie-rock songs but with a funky soul remake. The meeting of two styles you ordinarily wouldn't associate with one another makes for some interesting hybrids. The cover of Radiohead's "Just," done with Phantom Planet is unexpectedly excellent but hearing Tiggers and Ol' Dirty Bastard remaking "Toxic" by Britney Spears will probably leave more folks scratching their heads than nodding them. Overall, the balance is positive and should hopefully open up both indie rock and funk fans to both respective genres. In a class by itself is Winehouse's cover of the Zutons' "Valerie," --the best song Paul Weller and Martha Reeves never made. --Oliver Wang

Product Description

A lot has been said about Mark Ronson. Some have called him "a 21st century Quincy Jones," while others know him as one of the worlds finest DJ's with International renown, favored by the decadent fashion cognoscenti, the Hip-Hop elite and anyone in general who likes to party... Now add to that list THE PRODUCER DU JOUR! From his stellar production on Christina Aguilera's multi-platinum "Back To Basics" to his cutting edge contributions on the much buzzed about Lilly Allen album "Alright, Still Back To Black" and the genre bending Amy Winehouse release that's taking fans and critics by storm, Mr Mark Ronson is strutting his stuff, and strutting it well.

With all the production credits for other artists under his belt, he's now turned his attention to his own project, Version, the album the UK critics are calling a Major winner. Version is a beautiful collection of cover songs, re-imagined by Mark. His philosophy on Version was to work with songs he's long loved- while not trying to make them better, he just wanted to make them bounce... From the feel good "Valerie" cover (The Zutons) featuring Amy Winehouse, to the quirky and fun "Oh My God" (Kaiser Chiefs) featurung Lily Allen, to the piece de resistance: "Stop Me" (The Smiths), featuring the soul stirring vocals of newcomer Daniel Merriweather, Version is poised to be the must-have album this summer

Customer Reviews:

So entertaining!.......2007-07-25

I love listening to this cd. The songs are all incredibly catchy. This is my favorite album to play at work. Great fun!

Up a notch.............2007-07-20

Knows whats up. "Stop Me" and "Oh my God" better than the originals.
Ronson kills it.

amazing version.......2007-07-17

Mark Ronson's latest album could be one of the best albums that i have heard this summer. His fresh beats that he mixes with every track are unlike anything I have heard in a long time. Whether it's Coldplay, Amy Winehouse, Lily Allen or Kasabian each and every track has it's own flare. I went to a concert in Manhattan just last week and I am telling you his music is just as good if not better in person. I highly suggest buying this album!!!

Mark's Version of other hits!!.......2007-07-11

Mark Ronson is a DJ/producer, and on "Version", he takes other peoples songs, some hits, others obscure, and does his version using guest vocalists. The general sound is rich in horns, set to a funky, danceable rhythm, and loads of guest artistes on vocals. The album has already hit #2 in the UK.

Lead off single, and #2 UK hit "Stop me" is a lovely remake of The Smiths' "Stop me if you think you've heard this one before" which segues into The Supremes' hit "You keep me hanging on" over Hip hop beats. It features the lovely vocals of Australian Daniel Merriweather

Amy Winehouse (whose brilliant "Back to black" album he produced parts of) guests on the sunny Motown-like "Valerie", which was originally done by The Zutons.

Lily Allen (whose lovely album "Alright, Still" he also produced parts of) guests on the retro funk sounding "Oh my God", a remake of the Kaiser Chiefs song. It is currently in the UK top 20.

Britney Spears' hit "Toxic" is slowed down and almost unrecognizable, featuring vocals by Tiggers and a rap by ODB.

The Maximo Park song "Apply some pressure" is given a slight ska feel, set to an almost marching beat. Vocals by Paul Smith.

Kasabian show up on a funky remake of their "L.S.F", while Coldplay's "God put a smile on your face" gets the big horn section treatment.

Robbie Williams (his "Rudebox" album was also part produced by Mark) shows up on the Shaft-like remake of The Charlatans "The only one".

I like it!!!

It delivers the goods in style........2007-06-18

Mark Ronson's a busy man. He's been producing for Amy Winehouse, Lily Allen and Robbie Williams, yet has still found time to focus on his own studio album.
Comprised of new versions of old classics, it's a very entertaining listen from back to front, featuring the likes of Amy Winehouse, Ol' Dirty Bastard, Daniel Merriweather and Kasabian, all helping Ronson put his considerably fresh and funky twist on familiar tunes.
Highlights include the late ODB rapping to the Britney Spears refix of Toxic, Winehouse making vast improvements on the original with 'Valerie' and Phantom Planet singing an uber cool version of Radiohead's 'Just'.
Impressively suited for a party play through, this is definitely one to pick up for the nearing summer months.
With "Version", super-producer Mark Ronson has set out to prove that pop voyeurism and experimentalism don't have to be bad things using his own unique re-interpretive style.
Hence, he has assembled an album of spectacular cover versions that deliver very alternative versions of modern classics from Coldplay, The Charlatans, Radiohead and The Smiths.
Some listeners will undoubtedly write it off almost instantly as disastrous. Others may take some convincing.
But for many, "Version" is a brave, bold, blast of an album that almost always gets things right.
Ronson, for his part, emerges as a musical artist of the highest calibre -a music innovator whose funk-strewn re-interpretations effortlessly place themselves on the right side of cool.
On the whole, "Version" is a cut above most cover version compilations, as well as a darn fine party album for the approaching summer season. It probably won't impress the die-hard cynics - but for those willing to open their minds, or anyone in search of some expert funk, it delivers the goods in style.
My picks: "God Put A Smile Upon Your Face", "Oh My God", "Valerie", "Pretty Green", "Amy", "Just" and "Toxic".

Brandi Carlile - Brandi Carlile + ( Bonus Tracks )

Average customer rating:

OUTSTANDING
Fantastic Debut
THE FIRST OF TWO EXCEPTIONALLY GOOD AND SLIGHTLY DIFFERENT ALBUMS
Carlile's music should include a Warning Label: You will become a Carlile Addict
Always looking for new music

Brandi Carlile - Brandi Carlile + ( Bonus Tracks )
Brandi Carlile
Manufacturer: Red Int / Red Ink
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music

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The Story
Live at Neumo's
The Story (Digi-Pak)
West
Back to Black

ASIN: B000FP2ZM6
Release Date: 2006-06-13

Tracks:

Follow
What Can I Say (New Recording)
Closer To You
Throw It All Away (New Recording)
Happy
Someday Never Comes
Fall Apart Again
In My Own Eyes
Gone
Tragedy
Sixty Years On (Live)
Tragedy (Austin Cello Version)

Customer Reviews:

OUTSTANDING.......2007-07-14

I can Honestly say, this is the best artist I have heard EVER! She is unique, REAL, and her voice is beyond compare. Songs are Honest and she sings about what we all can relate to.

Fantastic Debut.......2007-06-17

I know that many people caught on to Brandi from Grey's Anatomy, but I hope that they all chose to stay - this girl is a truly gifted singer-songwriter. I rarely review music, and when I do it tends to be the stuff I really like. There is something about Brandi's music that is catchy and heartfelt without feeling manufactured. The album is even all the way through and is the kind of thing you won't get tired of listening to. For fans of Terra Naomi, Jewel, Lisa Loeb, and similar sounding songstresses, this album will surely be one of your go to albums.

THE FIRST OF TWO EXCEPTIONALLY GOOD AND SLIGHTLY DIFFERENT ALBUMS.......2007-05-21

I recently bought BC's new album ('The Story') and I liked it so much that I decided to buy this one too (the version with 2 'bonus tracks' - so, strictly speaking, this is not her first album). I think we all have artists, whose voices we find so appealing, that we will go out and buy almost any of their albums; for me, Brandi Carlile is one such artist. In fact, I suspect that if she made a recording of 'The Amazon Terms and Conditions of Sale', I'd probably buy this too - it's that bad (my addiction, NOT her voice, I should hasten to add). The superlatives accorded to 'The Story' (also reviewed) are no less applicable here, so I won't bother repeating myself; instead, I will concentrate on the differences between the two albums (at least, as I perceive them) :

'The Story' combines some songs which are fairly dramatic (sometimes climactic) with others that are gentler and which have a strong 'folksy/rootsy' flavour. By comparison, on 'Brandi Carlile', although these influences are also present, many of the song structures and melodies are more conventional (more 'mainstream'). I'd say the songs have slightly stronger melodies with 'hooks' which give them more of a 'pop feel'; on the other hand, they don't seem to have quite the same intensity ('Sixty Years On' being one obvious exception) - but I think this has more to do with the types of song rather than any lack of commitment by BC.

With the possible exception of a couple of songs, the overall mood on 'The Story' is moderately sombre and this is reinforced by the absence of any up-tempo songs; however, on 'Brandi Carlile, there is much more variety in mood and tempo. On both albums, production is never overdone (so you get a very 'stripped down' sound) but I thought it was cleaner and more 'disciplined' on 'The Story'.

There isn't a single bad song here (or on 'The Story', for that matter); everyone will have their own favourites - here are a few brief comments about some of mine (songwriters in brackets):

WHAT CAN I SAY (Tim Hanseroth) - A mid-tempo very catchy song with a soft undulating melody giving it a 'folksy' feel; the addition of fairly emphatic percussion produces a song that 'rocks a bit' also.

CLOSER TO YOU (Brandi Carlile/Tim Hanseroth) - Another catchy song - this time fairly up-tempo; some of the acoustic guitar breaks remind me a little of early Simon & Garfunkel.

THROW IT ALL AWAY (Brandi Carlile/Tim Hanseroth) - A song which has relatively gentle passages alternating with more powerful ones and these have an intensity that is reminiscent of some of Roy Orbison's music.

HAPPY (Brandi Carlile) - Mid-tempo song with some really fluent guitar and delicate 'feathery' percussion; again, there is something here that reminds me of Simon & Garfunkel.

SIXTY YEARS ON (LIVE) (Elton John/Bernie Taupin) - A fine song this (as are many from EJ's first half dozen or so albums). It is a bit 'angst' laden so it may not appeal to everyone, but there can be no doubt that this is a potent rendition. You can detect some of EJ's vocal intonation in BC's singing but, nevertheless, she makes the song her own - there can't be many singers who can interpret EJ songs in a way that does them full justice.

As I am clearly 'hooked' on BC's music, my reviews will be biased; so, if you are thinking of buying either of her albums, it might be prudent to check out some of the less favourable reviews also (if you can find any). In terms of my enjoyment, I preferred 'The Story' (to put things into perspective - I enjoyed 'Brandi Carlile' very much, but The Story' just 'blew me away'!); but any differences that might exist between her two albums are slight. All I can say is that I find BC's voice and music very addictive - great stuff.

Carlile's music should include a Warning Label: You will become a Carlile Addict .......2007-04-20

She's the girl next door, with the vocal roar of a tiger. She will command your attention with her musical instincts and aptitude! If you worry about purchasing a freshman CD from a newcomer...Worry NOT! She is a phenom with unparalleled vocal dexterity....to be placed among the respected ranks of music's classic icons.

(Fair Warning! Listening to this CD may result in a Carlile Listening Addiction)

Always looking for new music.......2007-04-01

This album is magic. A year ago I was waiting in the checkout line at Barnes & Nobels, and heard one song in the background from this album that I liked, then another and another. At first, I wasn't paying attention, but her voice drew me and I bought the CD. I'm glad it did. I have listened to it dozens of times since then. The poetry of the lyrics takes time to settle in, but the music is sweet from the start. I don't know why she isn't better known. That one experience, standing at BN, is the only time I've heard her outside of my music collection. Can't wait for "The Story" to come out.

Average customer rating:

American X is the kind of song that this band is all about.
"Suicide," she said. "What happened to the revolution?"
Highly disappointing..
Superlative Rock and Roll Album....
B.R.M.C. is back in form - in fact, the best yet!

Baby 81
Black Rebel Motorcycle Club
Manufacturer: Red Int / Red Ink
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music

Indie Rock | Indie & Lo-Fi | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music

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Icky Thump
Because of the Times
Favourite Worst Nightmare
Sky Blue Sky
Year Zero

ASIN: B000NVIXPA
Release Date: 2007-05-01

Tracks:

Took Out a Loan
Berlin
Weapon of Choice
Window
Cold Wind
It's Not What You Wanted
666 Conducer
All You Do is Talk
Lien on Your Dreams
Need Some Air
Killing the Light
American X
Am I Only

Customer Reviews:

American X is the kind of song that this band is all about. .......2007-08-01

After changing their sound from Garage Rock to nearly Folk Rock, BRMC is back with a killer sound. I think fans will welcome back this sound. The band will gather more followers with a more polished album then "Take Them On, On Your Own" and their self-titled release "B.R.M.C.". Despite the return to form on "Baby 81," the album still manages to maintain the material explored in "Howl."

The band doesn't completely abandon that acoustic southern blues rock style heard on their third album. They simply combined everything that they have learned over their past 3 studio albums and smashed it all into this release--- in turn creating an awesome rock album with a one killer song after another. Once you near the end of the album, one track will stand out with 9 minutes of rock. Baby 81 is a 12 inning baseball game with American X being the closer.

"Suicide," she said. "What happened to the revolution?".......2007-07-14

This record is excellent from the first track to the last. So good I almost cried with joy after the first play-through.

Highly disappointing.........2007-07-06

I had big expectations for this album; I love their style and 'Howl' even grew on me more and more as time went on, to where I think it might be their best work.

This album starts out strong: "Took Out A Loan" and "Berlin" (though you have to leave out the iffy lyrics, both songs have great grooves, like some of their best), "Weapon Of Choice" is where things start to go south. The song is a total return to form for the band, and is short and tight, but the chorus just sounds forced to my brain, even though it makes me want to pump my fist.

The Beatles-y "Window" I like, but it sorta derails the album. It's solidly written, but it's the first of bassist/singer Robert Been's contributions to the record that I just don't much dig, because it doesnt' seem to fit. Back to guitarist/singer Peter Hayes' great angsty track "Cold Wind", which fares much better, and encapsulates everything I like about the band. Then comes the string of songs that I inevitably have to skip--"All You Do Is Talk", "Lien On Your Dreams"; really sub-par stuff for a band like this. It gets better; "Need Some Air" and especially "Killing The Light" (the album's best track) bring the album back before the slightly dull "American X", which seems to strive for the vibe of the 'BRMC' album but falls short. It all ends with the slightly anti-climactic "Am I Only"--with it's endlessly repeating 2 chord structure, it's neither really good or bad, it's just there.

Believe me, I don't like to criticize a band I respect as highly as these guys. I just feel they can do better than 60% of this material. I'd hate to see them turn into the kind of band they railed against in "Whatever Happened To My Rock n' Roll?"

Superlative Rock and Roll Album...........2007-06-30

I got into B.R.M.C. quite by accident, but what has drawn me to this band is the fact that smart, solid, unpretentious rock and roll is so hard to come by these days.

It seems far too many popular bands today toil either in the poppy and superficial, or the absurdly inaccessible and needlessly complex.

Given that dichotomy, Black Rebel drives it right down the middle of the fairway (an analogy the band would probably hate). "Baby 81" is smart enough to have meaning, but accessible enough to get heads moving and fists pumping.

For those about to rock, enjoy tracks like "Took Out A Loan", "Berlin", and "Lien On Your Dreams." Although slower tempo tracks like "All You Do Is Talk" and "Killing the Light" are also worth a listen.

The highlight tracks, however, are the first single ("Weapon of Choice") and, for many, the anthem of the album ("American X"). Both are simply brilliant: the former a concise and energetic three minutes and the latter a thundering nine-minute condemnation of the contemporary American mindset. Both act as musical genius and incisive social commentary, at the same time.

Content to share the role of frontman, both Peter Hayes and Robert Levon Been get the job done. Either could carry the show, but the alternating leadership with each song makes for an interesting texture to the album.

As with the rest of their catalog (four albums to date), this is highly, highly recommended.

B.R.M.C. is back in form - in fact, the best yet!.......2007-06-21

I was a big fan of BRMC's 1st cd, found the 2nd a little less exciting & "Howl" was just lost on me. When I heard this latest cd , I instantly loved it. In fact, I would say that I am enjoying it as much (if not more than) their 1st album. It seems as though they've perfected a laid-back, narcotized blues-based rock guitar sound. Their lyrics straddle a balance between melancholic disillusionment & individualistic defiance. Better still is the fact that the hooks are more infectious, but not at the expense of the unique sound that sets them apart from their contemporaries - the songs are catchy, but in no way do they sound like they've " sold out " to pop sensibilities. Comparisons to Jesus & Mary Chain are still fair, one song even sounds as if it could be a nod to the late Elliot Smith. Overall, the affect is hypnotic, driving & manages to scratch a certain rock n' roll itch that no other band seems able to reach. It's rock played loose, but solid... & for a basic "power trio" it's an amazingly "big" sound.

Average customer rating:

Where's the guitar?

The Horseshoe Curve
Trey Anastasio
Manufacturer: Red Int / Red Ink
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B000RHRGLW
Release Date: 2007-07-24

Tracks:

Sidewalks of San Francisco
Olivia
Burlap Sack & Pumps
The 5th Round
The Horseshoe Curve
Noodle Rave
Tube Top Tony
Porters Pyramids

Customer Reviews:

Where's the guitar?.......2007-07-31

Excuse me if i'm being simplistic, but isn't Trey Anastasio known for guitar playing? Yet again the "former" guitar giant gives us a collection of songs where his signature solos are largely missing. Granted, there are some interesting compositions here and Anastasio deserves some kudos for that. But this is mostly a collection of unstructured free form jams that begin and end in the middle and feature everyone but Trey. It would be really great to hear Anastasio jump out in front, or trade licks with these very gifted jazz musicians, bit frankly he almost seems timid about doing so.

Average customer rating:

Not Much To Write Home About
Awsome CD
Christian Rock SUCKS
Surprise, Surprise!
I love RED!

End of Silence
Red
Manufacturer: Red Int / Red Ink
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music

Christian Rock | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music

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End of Grey
Comatose
The Art of Breaking
Hearts of the Innocent
Scars Remain

ASIN: B000FIHJLU
Release Date: 2006-06-13

Tracks:

BREATHE INTO ME
LET GO
ALREADY OVER
LOST
PIECES
BREAK ME DOWN
WASTING TIME
GAVE IT ALL AWAY
HIDE
ALREADY OVER, PT. 2

Album Description

Deriving from a variety of influences such as Muse, Chevelle, Blindside and Linkin Park, Red brings a unique blend of heavy guitars, intense string arrangements and dynamic vocals. They are quickly gaining fans with an exceedingly intense live show every bit as compelling as their debut cd. Already touring heavily in the mid-west and west coast, Red has quickly made many fans along the way. With over 20,000 friends on myspace, the band makes it a priority to write each and every fan back personally. Randy Armstrong says, "It is important that our fans see us as genuine guys who care." The songs on their debut release deal with the struggles that all humans face, while leading listeners to a place of redemption in the midst of the brokenness. Red hopes their music impacts people in a way that causes them to not feel alone in their struggles. Randy explains, "I hope that our music has a profound impact on people. You never know what people are dealing with in their every day lives, but I am willing to bet that at some point, we all have experienced the same feelings of anger, sadness, confusion, etc. Our music talks about a lot of those times that we have struggled dealing with those feelings and the situations that caused them. I hope our music makes them feel like they are not struggling alone." Produced by Dove nominated producer Rob Graves and mixed by Ben Grosse, End of Silence releases June 13th. The band will be touring with Day of Fire this spring then playing at many major festivals this summer and will continue to hit the road throughout the fall.

Customer Reviews:

Not Much To Write Home About.......2007-07-23

Red are a lot like what you hear on rock radio today. Comparable to Breaking Benjamin or Trapt, they have a vocalist who emotes with loud and clean vocals, and a band who can churn out the simplest, yet catchiest tunes. One exception though, even as a new band, Red severely lack the chops of their peers. The songs, if you can call them that, are often just half baked melodies and depend on the predictable sing-scream-sing formula. More often than not, you'll find a song floating away from a good idea and not returning. It should go without saying that if the generic song-titles weren't enough indication, Red aren't exactly travelling through uncharted waters. Don't be mistaken, unoriginality isn't always bad, as it's nearly impossible for a new band to be original these days, but Red just aren't yet up to the task of making something memorable. There is an interesting element to the music, thanks to a classy string section, but the album would be stripped of much of it's appeal and identity without it. The guitars are boring, the drums are simplistic, and the lyrics are quite trite and laughable. A good song will sound good even without lots of production, yet, if you took away the studio trickery of "End Of Silence," you wouldn't have much left. If you like your music safe and predictable, melodramatic and bland, then Red's debut might be up your alley. The potential, however, is there. Red can be a good band. But they need to sit down, write some actual songs next time, and not rely on so much production. As it is, however, there are far too many other bands doing this sound much better already.

Awsome CD.......2007-07-16

Where did they come from? I was looking to get the new Linkin Park but after I read mixed reviews people were actually recommending RED so I gave it a shot. RED gets more play than the new Linkin Park now. Great CD, no need to fast forward, just put it in and let it play.

Christian Rock SUCKS.......2007-06-21

I really like the song Breathe. I thought about buying the album until I discovered I was tricked into liking a song by a Christian "rock" group, lol!!! So much for Red...

Surprise, Surprise!.......2007-06-08

This is the second time this year that I went out on a limb and just bought some music that someone had recommended in their review of some other album (both of which were garbage albums from previously great bands).

This is the second time this year that I've been surprised at how good my "limb" decision music is (the other was Stage, which I've since decided is one of the greatest rock albums I've ever heard).

Although End of Silence is relatively short, it fills that time frame with great songs. The Already Over tracks are probably my favorite; they contrast each other perfectly with a mix of heavy riffs, piano, violin, and screaming/crooning lyrics that really set the tone for the whole CD.

The only negative that I found with the work, as a whole, was that RED seems a little short on variety, which could make the album a slightly predictable. It's certainly not redundant, though, and as they mature I'm sure they'll experiment with new sounds.

The Bottom Line: At 4.2 stars, it's a definite buy.

I love RED!.......2007-06-06

What all can I say? I love the band RED, I first heard of them through their song "Already over" on my Christian rock HITS CD, and I became a fan, and I became more of a fan when I bought this CD Of theirs, all of the songs are 100% awesome! I wasn't a huge fan of much hard rock until I started listening to more Christian rock groups, such as Seventh Day Slumber, Disciple, Pillar, P.O.D. etc... and now I love Christian rock music, and this album is really awesome, I think you all should buy it, if you like hard rock or Christian rock, you'll love this CD!

Average customer rating:

Pretty Blah.
I can't wait to see this disc live.
Ah, complete control over vibrational radiance.
Steve Vai and an Orchestra, pure magic.
Simply Sublime.

Sound Theories, Vols. 1-2
Steve Vai
Manufacturer: Red Int / Red Ink
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Rock | Styles | Music

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Systematic Chaos
Systematic Chaos
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ASIN: B000QFCCV4
Release Date: 2007-06-26

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Kill the Guy With the Ball
The God Eaters
The Murder Prologue
The Murder
Gentle Ways
Answers
I'm Becoming
Salamanders In the Sun
Liberty
The Attitude Song
For the Love Of God

Tracks:

Shadows And...
Sparks
Frangelica Pt.I
Frangelica Pt.II
Helios And Vesta
Bledsoe Bluvd

Customer Reviews:

Pretty Blah........2007-08-01

I'm a pretty big Vai fan, having purchased pretty much everything he has released, including all of his studio work plus several DVD's. I do think he's one of the most creative and talented guitarists out there, and on top of that is a brilliant composer to boot. Unfortunately he often goes off on weird tangents that, for him and others who tire of music that is musical, probably is a joy and wonder to listen to despite its non-musicality. That's pretty much what we have here.

The first CD is a bunch of familiar songs arranged for orchestra and then apparently Vai added some guitar in the studio or some such... in all cases (except maybe The Attitude Song) the original studio versions are not only better, but these versions simply didn't really need to happen... it's cool to bring an orchestra in and really flesh things out, but it's a bit over the top here. For the Love of God has a great start until, believe it or not, the guitar kicks in: ruins the mood he spent the first three or four minutes creating. So unfortunately: good idea, but poor execution.

Disc 2 is also a good idea: I was interested in hearing Vai flex his compositional muscles, but again it's basically that over-the-top Vai weirdness arranged for an orchestra. I found myself thinking that it would be better if he had just created ordinary songs out of these (e.g. Lucky Charms: brilliant little tune that's "just right" on The Ultra World... doesn't need an orchestra and, having heard this, I don't want to hear it with an orchestra).

I prefer Vai the eccentric, maniacal guitarist... and I appreciate the sonic exploration he does, but I've come to expect the occasional bit of madness that simply doesn't connect. Unfortunately this two-disc set is just that.

I can't wait to see this disc live........2007-07-24

When I first heard of this concept album earlier in the year I became very excited.

Frank Zappa is my favorite artist of all time and once again his influence is heard on another Vai album. As much as you can pick up on the Zappa influence, this album has it's own fresh sound! The Holland Metropole Orkest is awesome. An equal balance between Steve's guitar and the orchestra. I am very happy that Steve decided to put this out as a live album (similar to Live in an Ultra World). The song selection is also great. I wish they would have done "Blood & Glory" & "Tender Surrender" with the orchestra, but the disc 1 selections are awesome with my favorites "Liberty" & "For The Love Of God". This is just the 1st disc.

Now to the 2nd disc. Truly amazing. Even without Steve playing, this is still incredible. The 2nd disc reminds me so much of Zappa's "Yellow Shark".... a bunch of excellent musicians playing the works of an awesome modern day composer.

5 STARS!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Ah, complete control over vibrational radiance........2007-07-01

It wouldn't be accurate to call this a live album. It's really more like an album that was recorded (mostly) in front of a live audience and HEAVILY edited. It sounds like a live album, though. Basically, Steve Vai has taken seven complete performances and, for each section, phrase, or sometimes even single note of all seventeen songs, chosen the most perfect of the seven. He then pasted all of these most favorable parts together to make one perfect whole. This is especially remarkable considering that Steve had to deal with the different sound ambiences of different venues.

In the liner notes, Steve writes that the two-part piece "Frangelica" has hundreds of edits, while other tracks (he doesn't specify which ones) have very few. It's fascinating reading how he carefully listened to each note of each instrument and replaced any less-desirable notes with notes from other performances or even from other sections of music. In some cases, when no "right notes" (defined by Steve as notes that were played with the correct pitch, phrase, confidence, and attitude) were available, he would try to "re-fabricate" the notes in the studio or take them out altogether. Only perfection is heard on this album!

I know it's an overused word, but Vol. I (entitled "The Aching Hunger") is brilliant! Each track on this disc showcases Steve's exceptional guitar work in completely refreshing ways. The old songs, with the backing of the Holland Metropole Orkest, often seem entirely new. There's a lot of newly composed material on this disc, too... all of it beautiful. The highlight here, in my opinion, is the perfectly arranged "Salamanders in the Sun," originally from the album Flex-Able.

Steve, as a guitarist, gives the impression that he has the ability to translate through his guitar absolutely anything that enters his head. It's always been amazing to hear Steve perform his most complex passages note-for-note, accurately and exactly as intended. With these new versions of the songs, we hear other instruments keep up with him note-for-note, as well. Even knowing that these performances have been highly edited, it's evident that Steve and the orchestra played amazingly tight together!

Personally, Vol. II (entitled "Shadows and Sparks") isn't nearly as accessible for me. It's without Steve's true expressive voice, his guitar, and frankly the compositions here aren't quite as brilliant (they are still very good, though). It's interesting and different and incredibly complex.

In addition to traditional orchestral instruments, there is often more eccentric instrumentation used. Saxophone, Moog synthesizer, electric guitar (not played by Steve), bass guitar, what sounds like at least one drum set, and even a referee-type whistle are commonly heard. This makes the Holland Metropole Orkest able to have a chameleon-like sound. It often resembles a traditional symphony orchestra, but sometimes it sounds more like a marching band or big band or, quite often, a jazz fusion group. Rarely does it sound like any one thing for too long, which keeps it interesting.

A few of the melodies on disc two are familiar ("Shadows and..." contains allusions to "Whispering a Prayer" and an excerpt from "Bangkok," for example) and some of the melodies are subtle and inspired, but some of the melodies don't make sense for me, musically. Some individual sections of compositions seem too different from one another or seem to exist without real purpose or are never really given a chance to develop. Many of the odd time and key signatures are overwhelming. I don't possess the musical understanding that is needed to appreciate exactly what Steve is doing.

Even if there are perhaps some shortcomings, I find disc two to still be a true wonder to listen to. Although it doesn't contain his guitar playing, it still contains Steve's magic. The standout track for me is "Frangelica Pt. II," one of the more accessible tracks on Vol. II.

There is an undeniable attraction to the music on both of these discs that has made me want to listen to them over and over. The title of this review is a phrase Steve used in the liner notes to describe the ability of a composer to "capture, and make real, the audio vision of their mind's eye." There's no doubt that Steve has captured something intangible and made it quite real. It's the ethereal magnetism of his music. Very few artists today are capable of this. It would probably be fair to say that not even all of Steve's releases have it, but Sound Theories most certainly does. It contains music with so many layers, so much depth, and Steve has so much passion for what he plays and creates, that undoubtedly both discs in this set will be spinning in cd players... and spinning heads... for years to come.

Steve Vai and an Orchestra, pure magic........2007-06-28

Sound Theories Vol 1 & 2", a double-live CD capturing legendary guitarist Steve Vai's electrifying collaboration with the Netherlands Metropole Orchestra. The two-disc set spotlights rare material pulled from five European performances, a studio session and a soundcheck rehearsal recording, all of which took place between mid-2004 and 2005.

"Volume 1" features Steve Vai playing guitar with the Orchestra, which has earned worldwide acclaim.
What he does on CD 1 is take those performances and blends them together so it sounds as though it was all 1 show. Truly amazing.

Steve Vai never disappoints.

Together Steve and the Orchestra they bring new life to both
existing and never-before-heard Steve Vai songs.

Highlights on disc 1 are

"For the Love of God", "Liberty", "The Murder", "Attitude Song", "Salamanders in the Sun".

That's not to say the rest aren't as good as those, they are but I feel that these are the songs that are just a bit above the rest and will be the ones you'll remember most.

"Volume 2" features the Orchestra by it self performing songs written and composed by Steve Vai.

Listening to CD 2 it sounds as though he's playing along with the Orchestra, but he's not.

Highlights on CD 2 are
Well CD 2 is the highlight as the whole disc is just that good.

So there you have it.

The question is should you buy it or not.
I say this is an album that Steve Vai fans and rock music fans and even some of you metal heads out there can agree on that is worth buying.

Simply Sublime........2007-06-26

Absolutely amazing! Vai's compositions sound so full and lush with the orchestra. Steve's attention to detail in the audio editing, is a lesson worth aspiring to also. The guitar playing is faultless - as you'd expect from any Vai release.

Go buy it know you knuckleheads! Or I'll hunt you down...

Average customer rating:

It's official...
nice jazzy rock with brit pop
...
I sense a new wave of british bands in the horizon...
Not tired of them hanging around.

Tired of Hanging Around
The Zutons
Manufacturer: Red Int / Red Ink
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music

Indie Rock | Indie & Lo-Fi | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music

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ASIN: B000EUMO00
Release Date: 2006-05-16

Tracks:

Tired of Hanging Around
It's the Little Things We Do
Valerie
Someone Watching Over Me
Secrets
How Does It Feel?
Why Don't You Give Me Your Love?
Oh Stacey (Look What You've Done!)
You've Got a Friend in Me
Hello Conscience
I Know I'll Never Leave

From Amazon.co.uk

The surprise success story of the "Scousadelic" Liverpool scene, on Tired of Hangin' Around the Zutons trump their debut with an assured, confident collection of songs that accentuate their skill for vintage R&B, white-man soul, and some of the best rowdy sax since the Specials strode the earth. Perhaps in retrospect it's easy to see why this band have struck the public nerve in the way the Coral and the Bandits never quite could. No spooked, surrealist pirate swashbucklers here--the Zutons' songs are grounded in the here and now, numbers like "It's the Little Things We Do", the sound of frontman Dave McCabe weaving an unsteady path from barstool to barstool with dwindling pay-cheque clutched in fist, or "Valerie"--a message to an ex-lover reminiscent of the tattered majesty of the Faces in their garrulous heyday. Much improved is Abi Harding's saxophone work, now capable of sensitive, jazzy undertones ("You've Got a Friend in Me") or sudden bursts of nutty, bandy-legged strut, and McCabe's soulful vocal is neatly bolstered by full-band backing vocals that add an enjoyably cabaret sense of drama to even the twitchiest blast of skiffle-punk. The sound of a band coming on in leaps and bounds. --Louis Pattison

Album Details

The Sophomore Album from the Popular Mercury Prize Nominated Band was Produced by Stephen Street (The Smiths, Kaiser Chiefs). Having Grown to Become One of the UK'S Most Popular Live Acts, this Album's Release was a Highly Anticipated Affair. Includes the First Single "Why Won't You Give Me Your Love".

Customer Reviews:

It's official..........2007-06-04

The Zutons are absolutely my new and all-time favorite band. I have yet to hear one of their songs that I didn't love. This album has more of a mainstream sound to it, but for some reason didn't even take off as well as their first. It's the perfect blend of upbeat (Valerie, Hello Conscience) and moody (I Know I'll Never Leave, How Does It Feel), with some of the most quirky and endearing lyrics I've ever heard (Someone Watching Over Me, Why Won't You Give Me Your Love). Anyone who was blown away by their first album and expects no less from their second will not be disappointed. It grows on me more with each play. Absolutely brilliant.

nice jazzy rock with brit pop.......2006-12-23

Pop/Rock

The Zutons are back with their sophomore album. If you like the first album then most likely this album is just a reminder of the first one. The sound is the same, maybe a little more rock. Yes, it is still quirky, bluesy, jazzy, and poppy. "Why Won't You Give Me Your Love" is poppy rock and the lyrical melodies are film noir-ish. The song "Valerie" is a nice ballad, while "You've Got A Friend in Me" is soft and soulful with male and female dual vocals. Be kind and lend them your ears.

CLEAN
Recommend: 9, 3, 7, 1, 10, 5

..........2006-11-28

The Zutons made a real big impression the first time around. They toured with Muse (?) in the USA and were on a TV commercial with that song "Pressure Point." They sort of fit in that goofy pirate Liverpool sound. The second album sounds far more interesting. I feel like the real band is coming out. Songs like "It's The Little Thing We Do" and "Valerie" sound more representative of this great band. "Someone Watching Over Me" is great ballad. You don't hear these songs anymore. I prefer soul singers to English ballads anyway. This is music built around a vocal styling. But the music is again totally interwoven in the Zuton fabric. I think record has a wider appeal than their first outing. I look forward to the new live shows. "Why Don't You Give Me Your Love" is a cool song. This band is young. Expect many good things from them down the road. They have played with the biggest bands in the world. It's time for people to take notice of The Zutons.

I sense a new wave of british bands in the horizon..........2006-11-10

and The Zutons are going to be at the head of the pack. You can't keep good music hidden away from the masses for long. They are an extremely versatile and ecletic band with a number of stylistic approach to music making and performances. These guys (and abi too) are definitely going to make a big splash in America real soon, i foresee that happening sometime in 07.

Not tired of them hanging around........2006-10-29

Zutons are a UK quintet from Liverpool, with a rough psychedelic rock/R&B/ska/folk sound, akin to fellow Brits, The Coral, with a small dash of The Smiths. `Tired of hanging around' is their sophomore disc, and it's already topped the UK albums chart.

In Smiths-like mode, lyric wise is the rather dark but upbeat `Oh Stacey (look what you've done)' with an accompanying morbid but hilarious video.

`Secrets' is a swinging ska tinged song (great horns) and an insistent chorus. Retro rocker `It's the little things we do' has a great guitar riff.

Title track `Tired of hanging around' features great story telling, set to a Paul Weller sound, with great harmonies, something to be found throughout the album. Other great upbeat songs are the jangly, sunny `Valerie', and the clap along `Hello conscience'.

Slowing things down are `Someone's watching over me'which starts off like a lullaby before building up to a nice guitar ballad with dreamy harmonies. `You've got a friend' is a catchy skiffle, and `I know I'll never leave' is an airy ballad with a raw vocal delivery and soothing harmonies.

I think they'll be hanging around for a long time to come...

Average customer rating:

Buy this Album NOW
Welp
Love it.
Gread CD
Excellent!

When All That's Left Is You
Quietdrive
Manufacturer: Red Int / Red Ink
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music

Emo | Hardcore & Punk | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music

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ASIN: B000FGG5SA
Release Date: 2006-05-30

Tracks:

Rise From The Ashes
Get Up
Take A Drink With Me
Let Me Go In
Rush Together
Maybe Misery
I Lie Awake
The Seasons
Time After Time
Both Ways

Customer Reviews:

Buy this Album NOW.......2007-06-13

Quietdrive is one of my favorite bands and I definitely recommend their album to anyone who is a fan of good music. I love every song but my favorites are Take a Drink, Let Me Go In, Maybe Misery, and The Season. Quietdrive are amazing guys and an amazing band so buy their album and see them live if you get the chance, you won't be disappointed!

Welp.......2007-04-26

I am writing this just to keep the 5 star average rating going because this cd definitely deserves it!

Love it........2007-03-08

I picked this CD up because of the "Time after Time" track and quickly found myself singing along with all the other songs too.

Gread CD.......2007-01-14

Every song on the CD is good (a rareity nowadays), with several being great ("Both Ways" "Rise From The Ashes" "Let Me Go In" "Time After Time"). Definitely worth the purchase.

Excellent!.......2006-11-17

I was debating whether to give this CD 4 or 5 stars, and I went with four because this band does not rock enough for me. But what it does is deliver tight melodies, empassioned vocal performances, and consistent songcraft. The cover of Cyndi Lauper's Time After Time is great, although they cut some of the lyrics out of her original, more reflective version. If any dude out there can cover Cyndi Lauper and pull it off, you know he can sing, and this vocalist is exceptional, very similar to the vocalist from "All American Rejects." Other tracks "Maybe Misery" and "Rise From the Ashes" are top-notch, and there are not really any bad songs on here. When they turn up the guitars, it gets even better, and this band has some major potential. Keep your eyes on this band - they are the real deal.

Average customer rating:

ONE OF THE YEAR' S BEST!
Safe and Unoriginal
I'm just a little bit in love...
Such a talent...
Ari Hest just keeps on getting better and better.

The Break-In
Ari Hest
Manufacturer: Columbia/ Red Ink
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B000NVIXO6
Release Date: 2007-05-01

Tracks:

When And If
Bird Never Flies
Leaving Her Alone
So Slow
When To Quit
Right Of Way
The Break-In
Big Ben
Just As Well
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Customer Reviews:

ONE OF THE YEAR' S BEST!.......2007-07-26

I couldn't tell you what the others are talking about, only that this disc is filled with careful excellence; great songs that are impossible to forget, it is well-produced and very well written. Anyone who says differently does not really know music. In short, a great pop album that does everything it should and does it well! Enjoy! There are too few albums like this these: listen and appreciate!

Safe and Unoriginal.......2007-07-03

The Quality of production appears to be there but it is a relatively uninteresting listen...safe and unoriginal. It feels as though this album was produced by IKEA...and yes the directions and nifty do-it-yourself tools are included. But hey, if I wanted to do it myself I would have.

I recommend this album to all newly graduated college students just stepping into their first corporate paycheck of security who feel they have reached enlightenment in the halls of health benefits and 401k packages...

I'm just a little bit in love..........2007-05-24

I just found Ari on yahoo music and he has such a fresh and amazing voice-- I can't remember the last time I heard a man sing with such range and control. When he sings in that deep bass register it makes my toes tingle. Listen to this, you'll love it.

Such a talent..........2007-05-10

I've been an Ari fan for several years and this is such a wonderful new cd that I do recommend it highly. Track 1, "When and If" is a new favorite of mine, but track 10, "I've Got You", which I've heard him do live, is still a song I want to hear over and over again. I also urge listeners to catch one of his shows; he is amazing and is always available after the show to chat with fans. He is truly appreciative of his fans as well as humble.

Ari Hest just keeps on getting better and better........2007-05-04

I've been a fan of Ari Hest for a very long time--since before he was signed to a label, so I might just be a little biased. He's committed one of his best songs ("I've Got You") to CD as well as many other wonderfully-written, whimsical, thoughtful tracks. Favorites so far are "The Break-In," "When to Quit," "Bird Never Flies." The rest of the tracks are fantastic, but I think you'd just have to listen to all of Ari's other records to know just how special this one is. He is comfortable in his musical shoes and I love watching him strut.