Porch

Porch

Track Listings

1. Damn I'm Lazy

2. Little White Cracker

3. My Ragin' Ragged Booty

4. Expectorant

5. Your Hair

6. Dip

7. Bum Holy

8. Iceberg

9. Bulbous Head

10. Tattooed Love Boys

11. Palm Hair

Tracks:

Papa Dukie & The Mud People
Next To Me
No Vacancy
One Word (Peace)
Social Aid & Pleasure Club
Time For The Sun To Rise
Let's Play
Looking At You
Keep My Feet Upon The Ground
Prayer Of Love

Amazon.com

Between the recording and the release of this album, the devastation of Katrina transformed the Subdudes' native New Orleans. So perhaps this could have been titled Before the Flood, with the band's musical equivalent of Crescent City comfort food reminding us of better times (and providing hope for better times to come). The band's sonic signature combines the soulful vocals of Tommy Malone, the call-and-response harmonies of his bandmates, and the spare accordion accompaniment of John Magnie. As produced by bluesman Keb' Mo', the band's second album since its reunion renders the rhythm section almost subliminal, thus spotlighting the buoyant melodies and the vocal dynamics more than the groove. Among the highlights here, "Papa Dukie and the Mud People" celebrates the commotion that results when a hippie tribe pitches riverside camp in small-town Louisiana, "Looking at You" features a funky duet with Rosie Ledet, and "One Word" lifts the spirit like a secular hymn, with Malone's buttery tenor sounding like a bayou Michael McDonald. The gorgeous balladry of "Time for the Sun to Rise" and the closing redemption of "Prayer of Love" provide the sort of transcendental healing that music can offer the most musical of American cities. --Don McLeese

Customer Reviews:

More Boys! More! And Get Back to St. Louis!!!.......2007-07-21

No band out there is quite like the dudes. No band is more church. All of their albums are great and all the cuts on all their albums are great. I've seen em live three glorious times, including a great show at Mississippi Nights in St. Louis, no opening act, no merchandise, just the dudes, right after they reformed and before Miracle Mule was released. Over 2 hours of flawless hot smoking rock and roll that puts the youngsters to shame!! Glorious soulful show that literally brought tears to my eyes and kept my throat closed the entire night! From the opening aural assault of Late At Night through the accoustic 'in audience' mini set it was one of the 3 best shows I've ever seen and I go back to '66. I've played this music to many younger folks over the years and they all say the same thing. "Who are these guys? Are they black? God that sounds like Gospel Music". And it is! Got to see Rosanne Cash at a November 2004 show in St. Louis and meet her after the show. I mentioned this had been a Great Music Year for me. Got to see Dylan, The subdudes and her all in one year. She turned to me with a big smile and said "I love the subdudes!" And so do I. Sweetest pain on the platter. Their music is so deep that it is absolutely devestating to listen to when you have The Blues. My highest recomendation! Get out there and buy em all. But listen to Annuciation first.

Feel Good Music.......2007-02-10

Wanna feel good? have some fun? buy this CD...Great New Orleans style rythym and soulful singing, so tune in and enjoy, you'll have no regrets.
One more thing, if you ever have the opportunity to see this band live don't miss it, you're guaranteed to walk away smiling....

Still kicking.......2007-01-12

Glad to hear the Subdudes back together and cranking out that unique sound of theirs. I had to buy this CD as soon as I heard the first single on the radio, and it didn't disappoint.

Buy this CD.......2006-09-12

If you do not know this band, buy one ASAP. Better, see them live. Check the website for a performance near you. The music is soulful, rocking, touching,and delivered from the heart.

not a ton to add, but..........2006-09-03

...like most other reviewers, I love this CD. However, unlike many of them, I didn't know the Subdudes before. But hearing 'Papa Dukie...' and reading about their NOLA roots peaked my interest enough to buy the CD, and wow! Tommy Malone is an amazing vocalist and his companeros are also wonderful in backup, so that the entire mix is off the charts. Great songs, great sentiments, great harmonies, and great production (thanks, Keb). Malone is a cross between Al Green and David Hidalgo, with some Keb thrown in, and with his buddies he creates a potent, soulful stew.

More Subdudes!!!

Average customer rating:

Street Symphony
The Subdudes
Manufacturer: Back Porch
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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It's Not Big It's Large
Behind the Levee
Easy Tiger
S.O.S.: Save Our Soul ( Amazon Exclusive with Bonus Track )
Time on Earth

ASIN: B000SUKPQQ
Release Date: 2007-08-28

Average customer rating:

Music from the Bout
another excellent outting from mr escovedo
Cale'd
Vibrant Rock Hybrid
Dark and Moody

The Boxing Mirror
Alejandro Escovedo
Manufacturer: Back Porch
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Similar Items:

A Man Under the Influence
Gravity (Bonus CD)
West
Fox Confessor Brings the Flood
All the Roadrunning

ASIN: B000F2CAME
Release Date: 2006-05-02

Tracks:

Arizona
Dear Head On The Wall
Notes On Air
Looking For Love
The Ladder
Break This Time
Evita's Lullaby
Sacramento & Polk
Died A Little Today
Take Your Place
The Boxing Mirror
One True Love

Amazon.com

Alejandro Agonistes may yet have a happy ending, but you wouldn't guess it from this torrent of surrealism and gothic textures. Escovedo's first album since nearly succumbing to hepatitis C and crushing debt in 2003 is the darkest, most mysterious album of his career--a harrowing, poetic soundscape partly the result of producer John Cale's industrial-noir sensibilities, but also Escovedo's own avant-garde punk roots. The difficult trilogy which opens the album moves from arid Arizona (a wasteland where the soul finds nary a drop to drink) to a conversation with a "dear head on the wall" that becomes a negative Zen poem ("The sadness will come / When there is no one") to a cryptic vision of a buck trampling a wandering doe. Writing with his wife, poet Kim Christoff, as well as Chris Stamey and guitarist Jon Dee Graham, Escovedo isn't just confronting his own mortality and the mistakes which plunged him into a nightmare. He's courting a danse macabre for the sounds and poetry he finds there. On "Sacramento and Polk" he surveys a bohemian hell through a "Thorazine haze," while the Princely groove of "Take Your Place" only seems like a discordant funk party until the lyrics sink in: "I'm going down, down, down / There's nothing here." Escovedo's voice has weathered the physical ravages, caressing all the Mexican nuances out of the synth- and cello-sweetened "Evita's Lullaby" and breaking beautifully on the country ballad "Died a Little Today," which, like each of these emotionally concentrated tracks, is as literal as it is elusive. --Roy Kasten

Customer Reviews:

Music from the Bout .......2007-06-16

As if ample evidence were needed that extraordinary music can be made without benefit of chemistry, Escovedo, his co-writers, and Cale have produced a darkly jeweled kaleidoscope, a flowering of post-illness creativity that incorporates some of the most interesting instrumentation I've heard on record in some time. No longer satisfied with the usual, Escovedo stretches far beyond the punk or alt-country mold with a symphonist's virtuosity. These songs are punctuated by stunningly surrealistic lyrics and the twisted virtuosity of some of the most unusual ensemble players and soloists I've heard in years.

another excellent outting from mr escovedo.......2007-03-09

no such thing as a bad alejandro escovedo cd. this is one talented gentleman. mid-tempo songs, slow-tempo songs, and hard rockers make this a recording with a fine mix of moods. as usual, there is a wonderful variety of textures; with violin, cello, accordion, acoustic guitars, and electric guitars blending into a creative flow of sound. produced by the great john cale, the audio quality is excellent, the atmosphere fresh and beautiful. this cd was selected by "no depression" magazine as the 7th best album of 2006. i, too, highly recommend it, as i do all of this artist's recordings. fine stuff.

Cale'd.......2007-01-21

The other reviewers summed up many of my feelings about this CD. Why don't I love it? It is because I have come to expect a certain sound from AE. I am listening to a previous release called Gravity right now and can imagine listening to it 100's of more times.

The Boxing Mirror, produced by John Cale, has some excellent songs that rock as much as anything AE has ever done - Arizona and Sacramento & Polk come to mind immediately. The hooks are in you real fast and I listened to Sac & Polk many times at AE's website totally mesmerized by the big raunchy sound. But, will this disk survive in the heavy rotation of my CD changer staying for months like the Buick MacKane and True Believers CD's - probably not.

For fans of John Cale, I think they will love this disk and I heartily recommend it to them and also new fans of AE. For the older fans, you may be dissapointed.

All in all though, I did give this 4 stars because it is better than 99% of the stuff being released today as music! Go AE!

Vibrant Rock Hybrid.......2007-01-21

Alejandro Escovedo who is related to Sheila E & has been in rock bands Rank & File, the Nuns, & True Believers has produced an excellent CD. Escovedo's "Pyramid of Tears" from his "Gravity" CD remains one of my favorite classic album cuts of all time. On this CD we have a number of excellent tracks. "Break This Time" rocks with roaring electric guitar and strings to great a vibrant rock hybrid, "Whoever told you there'd be no danger, nothing to fear here in this house of pain; So speak to me softly & tell me you love me & we'll join together in the refrain." It's a breathtaking stew that climaxes with the closing bars. "Take Your Place" places a complicated lyric on a driving rock beat, "I'm going down, down, down, even deeper still, 'cause this world has gotten so f***ed up." "One True Love" written with Chris Stamey is a wild rocking track, "I'm all messed up; I got nothing to take your place." The opening cut "Arizona" is a haunting melody that snakes eerily through self-exploration, "I turned my back on me & I faced the face of who I thought I was." Mark Andes who was in the bands Spirit, Jo Jo Gunne & Firefall plays the bass on the set. This is a dark album. Escovedo explores themes of loss, regret and sorrow in an original blend of musical styles. Enjoy!

Dark and Moody.......2007-01-20

I saw this guy on PBS and he sounded great playing live, so I bought this CD, which has a many of the songs he did on TV. The album doesn't seem as powerful as the live show. There are some good songs, though. I like "Arizona" & "Break This Time." Escovedo has a melancholy sound, but not quite depressing. Also I have to admit, I just love pronouncing his name!

Average customer rating:

Touching
Pays music a complement. I love the classical pieces!
the Notebook soundtrack (Audio CD)
Very Nice
A sweeping, emotional standout!

The Notebook
Various Artists
Manufacturer: New Line Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Swing General | Swing Jazz | Jazz | Styles | Music

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Similar Items:

The Notebook (New Line Platinum Series)
The Notebook
Finding Neverland
A Walk to Remember
The Lake House

ASIN: B00023B1E4
Release Date: 2004-06-08

Tracks:

Main Title
Overture
"I'll Be Seeing You" Performed by Billie Holiday
"Alabamy Home" Performed by Duke Ellington
Allie Returns
House Blues/The Porch Dance/The Proposal/The Carnival
Noah's Journey
"Always And Always" Performed by Benny Goodman & His Orchestra
"A String Of Pearls" Performed by Glenn Miller & His Orchestra
On The Lake
"Diga Diga Doo" Performed by Rex Stewart And The Ellingtonians
"One O'Clock Jump" Performed by Benny Goodman & His Orchestra
"I'll Be Seeing You" Performed by Jimmy Durante
Noah's Last Letter
Our Love Can Do Miracles

Amazon.com

Based on Nicholas Sparks' novel, director Nick Cassavetes film spins the bittersweet tale of a 60-year romance, as seen from the polar perspectives of its promising youth and the travails of an old age cursed by Alzheimer's. Its soundtrack effectively echoes those polar dramatic concerns, with composer Aaron Zigler's gentle orchestral score largely giving voice to the character's melancholy present, while a rich, well-chosen slate of vintage material by Billie Holiday, Duke Ellington, Benny Goodman and Glenn Miller imparts a restless energy to their youth. There's a certain schmaltz to much of Zigman's work here, yet cues like "House Blues/The Porch Dance.." and "Noah's Journey" argue he's achieved something more elusive than mere melodramatic wallpaper with the deceivingly difficult task at hand; it can't be easy to have your work seasoned with the likes of Ellington's sassy "Alabamy Home" and Goodman's still-vibrant "One O'Clock Jump." Sharply contrasting versions of "I'll Be Seeing You" by Holiday and Jimmy Durante bookend the soundtrack, perfectly evoking the story's alternating shades of hope and fading nostalgia and framing Zigman's understated work in the bargain. --Jerry McCulley

Album Description

Based on the best selling novel by Nicholas Sparks ("A Walk To Remember", "Message In A Bottle"), "The Notebook" is the story of Noah and Allie, teenage lovers torn apart by WWII and Allie's parents' demands to marry a respectable lawyer. After 14 years apart, they meet again and rekindle their true love. Starring Ryan Gosling, Rachel McAdams, James Garner, and Gena Rowlands. The soundtrack is a propelling force. In addition to classic WWII era pieces, Aaron Zigman's score suites enhance the record with beautifully dramatic themes. Score performed by the Hollywood Studio Symphony.

Customer Reviews:

Touching.......2007-07-04

There isn't much I can say about this beautiful movie, except that it was so touching!
It say's go for the "true love", settle for nothing else no matter what may be in store, because love that is "true" and as beautiful as their's was, is a rare thing!
I absolutely loved the ending.
I also loved that a movie CAN be truly wonderful, beautiful and touching WITHOUT grafic "sex scenes!" Also sadly a rare thing in movies today.

Ever seen "Hanover Street?" Equally beautiful. No SEX scenes either!

Angelfish

Pays music a complement. I love the classical pieces!.......2007-05-27

I do not have the soundtrack to The Notebook, but I do have the movie itself. Having said that, every song is wonderful. Some music carries with it, a wealth of emotion and a sense of timelessness. I love all of the classical pieces , perhaps the best, in this particular movie. Classical has never been my speed when it comes down to music, but something about this movie's classical masterpieces struck a chord in me...made me smile and maybe even sniffle a bit. If you are a fan of the movie, I'm sure you would love its soundtrack too. Music like this is ideal for a romantic evening or just for pleasure listening. You don't know if you'll like something until you give it a chance! So give this a chance!!

the Notebook soundtrack (Audio CD).......2007-05-13

This is a beautiful collection of music from the movie, The Notebook. Most is instrumental, very relaxing, as well as lively at times. Two renditions of "I'll Be Seeing You" are included.

Very Nice.......2007-03-30

I really enjoyed listening to the soundtrack, but I'm also a big fan of background music and this cd was great for both. Listening to the cd took me back to the movie and reminded me how much I enjoyed it, but I also put the cd on during a nice meal with friends and it worked out very well, they all enjoyed the music.

A sweeping, emotional standout!.......2007-01-11

The music from The Notebook brings you right back to the film, capturing your heart and soul. It's music will roll live waves through your soul and bring you from nostalgia to your own feelings of love and desire. The selections, arrangements and orchestrations are to be admired, and Mr. Zigman is to be praised. This soundtrack truly completes the legacy of "The Notebook".

Average customer rating:

Mr Hammond,I Done Got The Blues.
This Kills
Never Better
Nice man still rocks
The new mono???

Push Comes to Shove
John Hammond Jr.
Manufacturer: Back Porch
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Blues | Styles | Music

Electric Blues Guitar | Blues | Styles | Music

Acoustic Blues | Blues | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

West
10 Days Out (Blues from the Backroads)/ (CD/DVD)
Painkiller
Wicked Grin
Country Ghetto

ASIN: B000LSAJ5C
Release Date: 2007-01-23

Tracks:

Push Comes to Shove
Come On in this House
Mean Ol' Lonesome Train
If You Wanna Rock & Roll
Tore Down
Eyes Behind Your Head
Butter
Heartache Blues
Everything's Gonna Be Alright
Take a Fool's Advice
You Know That's Cold
Cold Water

Amazon.com

If the combination of veteran bluesman John Hammond with contemporary Philly hip-hop/soulman G Love (a.k.a. Garrett Dutton) sends shivers of fear down the spines of blues purists, the duo's collaboration here shows there is nothing to be worried about. Despite differences in age, backgrounds, and styles, they have shared bills and obviously respect each other's talents. Hammond, who has recently dipped his toes into songwriting waters after being solely an interpretive artist for nearly 40 years, jumps into the river with a whopping five originals. Love contributes a few as well, and the result is an album that rocks harder and with more intensity than most artists half Hammond's age can muster. Add covers from Little Walter, Junior Wells, and Tom Waits (Hammond's 2001 release Wicked Grin, comprised predominantly of Waits songs, is one of his biggest sellers), and the result is one of the finest and most diverse discs in the bluesman's bulging catalog. The stripped-down backing band of journeymen including bassist Marty Ballou, ex-Waits drummer Steven Hodges, and keyboardist Bruce Katz provides plenty of sparks with which Hammond--who plays rowdy guitar and sizzling harp throughout--can catch fire. Love adds his harmony vocals and rapping to his own "Tore Down," a near-perfect collision of blues and hip-hop and a song likely to get Hammond crossover acceptance with Dutton's more youthful jam-oriented audience. The jazzy "Eyes Behind Your Head" and a rollicking take on Dion's "If You Want to Rock and Roll" further expand Hammond's reach without either diluting his sound or distancing his core fans. In his mid-60s upon this album's release, he sounds loose, energized, and ready for another 40 years. --Hal Horowitz

Album Description

It's a precious few artists who reinvent themselves at the age of 64, but blues luminary John Hammond proves himself the ultimate untraditional traditionalist as the dozen stellar songs on Push Comes to Shove illustrate. Push Comes to Shove marks an increased output in Hammond's original compositions- he penned five of the CD's 12 songs- and there's a bold collaboration with the album's producer, G.Love (the innovative and soulful Philly singer/guitarist and longtime Hammond fanatic), in the hip-hop-tinged blues of "Tore Down", as well as a handful of personalized renderings of traditional blues numbers, a musical modus operandi that has earned Hammond multiple Grammy nominations since his 1962 self-titled debut. Since then, Hammond has made 31 records and tours year-round, learning from and playing with musical greats and friends including Tom Waits, Muddy Waters, and Michael Bloomfield. Those unparalleled experiences and authenticity shine through brightly on Push Comes to Shove.

Customer Reviews:

Mr Hammond,I Done Got The Blues........2007-07-17

I didn't realise John Hammond had a new release out.There I was standing in the blues section with a Muddy Waters double cd in my hand at a bargain price of 5 euros.I had 20 euros in my pocket.Just out of the corner of my eye I caught a glimpse of his new release.I bought it,"damn the expense i'll walk it home".It was worth every mile.Exellent cd.

This Kills.......2007-06-13

I love John Hammond. Not only his instrumental skills but just his charisma as a performer. I think his delivery on this record matches the live performances I've seen him do, and that's saying something because he's great live!

Never Better.......2007-05-16

I think that this is possibly John Hammonds best effort yet,
and I have been listening to him since the 60's. He does some
very different things on this CD, and also writes many of the songs.
It all works out very very well. Friends who are not John Hammond fans
have told me that they also enjoy it very much. A terrific CD.

Nice man still rocks .......2007-05-14

i have no negatives about this cd.. It's good fun... It's not Muddy Waters etc... but that's a hill no one can climb..

Wonderful vocals... way high end guitar... And a fun sense of delivering blues lyrics.... I'm looking forward to seeing John and band on tour soon..

The new mono???.......2007-04-01

I've admired John Hammond for almost 39 years now. I'm glad that he's back to using an electric band again. This recording is killer! I think the fact that it was recorded in analog as opposed to digital is what gives it the raw edge.If you like your blues gritty and downright real, you'll love "Push Comes To Shove". Can this analog recording be the new mono for the 21st century? Hope more artists record this way...it's warmer...or in this case...HOT!! This CD and John's recent output remind me of his early electric Vanguard and Atlantic recordings. This guy is an unheralded Americon icon.

Songs From the Front Porch: An Acoustic Collection

Average customer rating:

good vibes
good music
worthwhile
Michael is my new guru - he should be everyones!
Everything music should be. Simply rythmic & pure.

Songs From the Front Porch: An Acoustic Collection
Michael Franti
Manufacturer: Reincarnate Music
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Yell Fire!
Everyone Deserves Music
Stay Human
I Know I'm Not Alone
Home

ASIN: B0002DD5SE
Release Date: 2004-07-13

Tracks:

Yes I Will
Closer to the Sky
Firefly
Love'll Set Me Free
Love Invincible
Anybody Seen My Mind
Sometimes
Stay Human
Oh My God
Ganja Babe

Customer Reviews:

good vibes.......2007-06-13

on the whole a chill album there are some top quality moments and peachy versions.well worth checking out

good music.......2007-04-11

We are not to familiar with the artist, but it's nice easy-going music with a reggae flair.

worthwhile.......2007-01-05

Michael Franti once again brings light to his "Songs from the front porch" album.....this cd definitely along with his others is worth buying even if there are duplicate songs from other cd's.....the acuoustic version has a more at home style to it!

Michael is my new guru - he should be everyones!.......2006-09-21

Michael Franti has it down - with his lyrics, sound and his laid back lifestyle! He is my new guru - listen and live through and by his lyrics!

Peace!

Everything music should be. Simply rythmic & pure........2005-01-09

I don't know what you expect from a dreaded guy showing his bare foot on the cover, but that picture is meant to fool you. This is the most honest& best album I have played over the air in 2004. The more times you listen to this cd all the way through, the more you'll be convinced this man is put here just to help you see. Very rarely you'll find such an artist at his peak, and virtually unknown. Very proud to say my listeners request Michael Franti regularly. Every flower has a right to be bloomin :) Brilliant!

Average customer rating:

how low can you go
Future Star
Sublime
great debut
A Texas Fiddler Expands Her Horizons

Seven Angels on a Bicycle
Carrie Rodriguez
Manufacturer: Back Porch
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Outlaw & Progressive Country | Country | Styles | Music

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Red Dog Tracks
Balancê
Unglorious Hallelujah
Funnel Cloud

ASIN: B000GPI1AA
Release Date: 2006-08-15

Tracks:

Seven Angels On A Bicycle
Never Gonna Be Your Bride
Dirty Leather
He Ain't Jesus
Waterbound
'50s French Movie
I Don't Want To Play House Anymore
Before You Say Another Word
Big Kiss
Got Your Name On It
He's Already Gone
St. Peter's

Amazon.com

Although this is officially singer/fiddler Carrie Rodriguez's solo debut, her musical mentor Chip Taylor--with whom she has recorded three previous discs of duets--is an integral ingredient. Taylor wrote or co-wrote all but one track and is also the album's producer. With Seven Angels on a Bicycle, the partnership that worked so well on Red Dog Tracks, The Trouble With Humans, and Let's Leave This Town has yielded another winner. The songs shift between folk, country, and even jazz, the latter aided by the amazing Bill Frisell, whose delicate, restrained textures and effects create an introspective mood as much as Rodriguez's lovely, sensitive voice. Much of this atmospheric release floats by with barely-there percussion, haunting tunes, and a languid yet exquisite sense of subtlety rare in contemporary music. Rodriguez goes into hoedown mode only once--on the frisky "Never Going to Be Your Bride"--but her fiddle colors these songs in muted shades that perfectly enhance their emotional concerns. She's a stirring singer--somewhat like Suzanne Vega--whose vocal innocence in tracks like "This Kiss" provides a perfect counterpoint for lyrics predominantly concerned with lost love and lovers. This is a stark, beautiful set of pensive songs that results in a low-key jewel of an album made for listening, not dancing. The talented Rodriguez needs no further proof that she is very much ready for prime time. --Hal Horowitz

Customer Reviews:

how low can you go.......2006-12-11

I have never heard such a boring,monotone style. This music is absolutely depressing.Music is supposed to make you feel good, not down.
This is "art" music, not real music. This could be one of the worst choices I have made in contempopary music.

Future Star.......2006-12-10

I'm new to Carrie Rodriguez, never have listened to her colaborations with Chip Taylor. I read a review somewhere on this release and took a chance.....very glad I did. I just can't get this one out of my CD player. For someone who hasn't been the lead singer very long, she nails it!! Clear distinct voice. Love the music, not your ordinary country sound at all. Can't wait for more from Carrie...alone.

Sublime.......2006-11-05

Sublime, delightful, a masterpiece.
A perfect work of Carrie, Frisell, Leisz and the rest of musicians.
A gift
Robert

great debut.......2006-10-15

this is the record nora jones was supposed to make. adult music. complex and very listenable. it keeps getting better. highly reccommended.

A Texas Fiddler Expands Her Horizons .......2006-10-12

Carrie Rodriguez is well known to me because of three excellent CD's she made with her collaborator and mentor, Chip Taylor, songwriter, professional gambler, and uncle of Angelina Jolie. The style of the two was mostly down-home folk and country. Carrie's Texas fiddle and twangy voice fit the music.

This CD is a stretch for Carrie. Most of the songs are more cosmic than country -- with a bit of India, jazz, and techno-pop. I like the songs best where her twang comes through most strongly with a background of guitar and banjo that could have been arranged by Ravi Shankar. (My wife, however, doesn't like this CD -- although she much enjoys the Taylor/Rodriguez collaborations.) Down home pickin' and Carrie's bluegrass fiddle really come to the fore only on "Never Gonna be Your Bride" and "I Don't Want to Play House Anymore" which may be the best song on the CD.

If you're a country fan you might test drive your taste for this by previewing "Seven Angels on a Bicycle" which is typical of the album as a whole. I like most of the tracks -- although some are a bit draggy and an additional uptempo number or two might have made the CD even stronger. On first listen, I like this CD, and Carrie's new direction. I'll see how it ages.

Smallchief

Average customer rating:

Another great effort from Mr. Krauss.
Viktor's IInd Album
Falls just short of greatness

II
Viktor Krauss
Manufacturer: Back Porch
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Outlaw & Progressive Country | Country | Styles | Music

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Far from Enough
My Name Is Buddy
Sweet Warrior
West
Endless Highway - The Music Of The Band

ASIN: B000MM0L7I
Release Date: 2007-02-20

Tracks:

Hop
No Time Like The Past
Eyes In The Heat
When She's Dancing
Pinky Ring
(I Could've Been Your) Best Friend
Ecotone
Shine On You Crazy Diamond
Dudeman
Last Book

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Viktor Krauss is a quintessential supporting player. The brother of bluegrass superstar Alison, he's recorded with Lyle Lovett, Jerry Douglas, Chet Atkins, and Emmylou Harris. Yet in 2004 he authored a nearly perfect album of ambient Americana, Far from Enough, that was full of delicately shaded instrumental moods and electrically charged textures. Much of that came from Jerry Douglas and guitarist Bill Frisell, who were both all over the disc. Frisell, with whom Krauss often plays, is only on a couple of tracks here. He's replaced by Dean Parks, a veteran session player who's recorded with everyone from Steely Dan to Andrea Bocelli. A guitar chameleon, Parks seems to exacerbate the fuzzy compositional focus of Viktor Krauss II. The opening track, "Hop," is promising, with a grinding country power-trio groove that's more Explosions in the Sky than Chet Atkins. But many of the instrumentals sound like jam-session vamps, including "Pinky Ring" and "No Time Like the Past." As he did on Far from Enough, Krauss works better at the atmospheric edges, like "Eyes in the Heat," with Dean Parks soloing freely over a moody modal groove while Indian singer Shweta Jhaveri vocalizes wordlessly, literally moving through the background. Jhaveri's three guest appearances are among the best pieces on VKII, especially her multitracked scatting on "Ecotone." The vocal tunes with Lyle Lovett and Ben Taylor sound half-hearted at best, but Shawn Colvin gives a sweet read on a countrified reworking of Pink Floyd's "Shine On You Crazy Diamond." Far from Enough was an album that dedicated itself to a sound; Viktor Krauss II has its moments, but doesn't want to commit. --John Diliberto

Customer Reviews:

Another great effort from Mr. Krauss........2007-05-16

Victor Krauss has come into his own. No longer in the shadow of the great Bill Frisell. He has created two masterpieces, showing his true song writing abilites. Victor shows he understands music and has a diverse musical influence. The world is a richer place with the music of II. I will be first in line for III.

Viktor's IInd Album.......2007-05-16

To: Viktor Krauss
From: Winslow Bunny
Subject: Apology

Viktor: If I have ever, ever, in any way, shape or form denigrated, belittled, given faint praise, or in any other way diminshed your talents verbally, non-verbally or with uncomplimentary gestures, I completely, sincerely and profusely apologize. I don't think I have so - I don't recall doing so. Just in case, though . . . After your first album, which I enjoyed, I felt that perhaps there was a bit more of Jerry Douglas in your album than Viktor Krauss; not that there's anything wrong with that, as Jerry is an excellent musician, but I didn't feel that I got to hear a lot of your talent in the CD. You completely and absolutely took care of that in your album "II". If the first song, "Hop," didn't completely and absolutely grab me (it did, by the way), the second song, "No Time Like The Past" finished me off, convincingly. Add in the catchy rhythm and tune of "Dudeman", the instrumentals backing up the talents of Lyle Lovett and Shawn Colvin, and you've got a terrific album. Viktor, you've done yourself proud with an A+ album.
P.S. I know something about hopping, too, and your song captured the right spirit in that. Could it be that you got your inspiration for that song from your back yard? Maybe, maybe not . . .

Falls just short of greatness.......2007-02-25

Viktor Krauss, on his second solo venture, II, approaches but just misses genius. Yes, He's got that full-bore, heartlandish, Americana vibe maximally geared up. Yes, he's recruited some of the more evocative vocalists on the recent musical landscape (Shawn Colvin, Ben Taylor, Lyle Lovett, and, especially Shweta Jheveri). But somehow it just doesn't quite come together.

What's the problem? Mainly, I think, the compositions, too simplistic and generic to vault the proceedings into epic territory. A too-precious production slickness also dooms greatness. What needs to happen, in my humble opinion, is that someone ought to come alongside Krauss and give him a creative kick in the butt, forcing him out of his comfort zone into precincts of genuine weirdness and mystery, not the comfortable aesthetic he too often defaults to.

Don't get me wrong; this disc is growing on me, and may, indeed, end up as one of my top recordings of 2007. But I don't think so. My first listen, confirmed by subsequent samplings, triggered a check in my musical aesthetic that I couldn't ignore, a slight feeling of being had.

I'm willing to consider that I'm being overly critical, even anal, and that if I could just loosen up, I'd get totally on board with a way-happening disc of major consequence.

But as much as I'd like to talk myself into such a stance, I just can't do it.

****1/2.

Average customer rating:

OTR Fireworks
Over The Rhine Succeeds Again!
4.5 stars.... excellent overview and introduction to OtR

Discount Fireworks
Over the Rhine
Manufacturer: Back Porch
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music

General | Rock | Styles | Music

Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music

Adult Alternative | Pop | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

Ohio
Drunkard's Prayer
Films for Radio
We Walked in Song
West

ASIN: B000MG2LPY
Release Date: 2007-02-06

Tracks:

Last Night On Earth Again
If Nothing Else
Suitcase
Give Me Strength
Latter Days
The World Can Wait
Show Me
Born
All I Need Is Everything
Ohio
Sleep Baby Jane
How Does It Feel (To Be On My Mind)
Lookin' Forward (live)
Within Without
Like A Radio

Album Description

Discount Fireworks: A Collection is not a "best of", it's more akin to a photo album allowing the listener to relive bright moments in a long and adventurous musical journey. Contains the previously unreleased single "Last Night On Earth Again" and 3 tracks from catalog titles that are no longer in print.

Customer Reviews:

OTR Fireworks.......2007-05-16

An outstanding collection of tracks by an intriguing band. Well worth a listen!

Over The Rhine Succeeds Again!.......2007-03-28

DISCOUNT FIREWORKS is another success for Over The Rhine. This is a collection of past recordings mixed with a little of the new. Over The Rhine is a band more people should know about. Karin Bergquist's mellow heart-felt vocals touch the soul!

4.5 stars.... excellent overview and introduction to OtR.......2007-02-10

Over the Rhine (named after the Cincinnati neighborhood where the band started in 1989) has issued 13 official albums (and a couple of fans-only albums) in its long history, including a 10th year anniversary album "Amateur Shortwave Radio" in 1999, covering live tracks from "Ten Years of Show Business". The band has gone through several label changes, and even more line-up changes. In the Over the Rhine universe, there is a clear devide before and after 1996, when the original foursome ceased, leaving creative control to the now husband and wife team of singer Karen Bergquist and primary songwriter Linford Dettweiler. This is the first attempt to capture the band's total studio album output.

"Discount Fireworks" (15 tracks, 71 min.) brings a generous sampling of the band's output. The majority of this compilation, issued by Back Porch, the band's label from 2001 through 2006, focuses on 3 albums: 1996's Good Dog Bad Dog (subsequenbtly re-released by Back Porch), 2001's Films for Radio, and 2003's Ohio, a double album considered by many as the band's crowning achievement. "Films for Radio" provides "Give Me Strength", a Dido-penned tune, as close as OtR came to mainstream succes, the majestic "The World Can Wait" (my 17 yr daughter's all-time fave OtR track), and "If Nothing Else". "Ohio" provides the aching "Suitcase", the single "Show Me" and the beautiful pensive title-track, just Karen on piano and vocals. "Good Dog Bad Dog" provides the classic "Latter Days" and "All I Need Is Everything", both of which remain a concert staple to this day. The last third of the compilation bring tracks from the IRS albums of the early days, including the classics "Sleep Baby Jane" and "Within Without" from the 1994 album "Eve", which shoulda coulda brought mainstream success (but didn't). This compilation also includes one new song "Last Night on Earth Again", which is nice but not essential (but for the OtR completists, such as me).

In all, this is a very nice overview (but don't call it a "best of") of what Over the Rhine has done for 15+ years. After their contract with Barck Porch ran out, the band decided to go on independently. In December, 2006, they released "Snow Angels", their long-awaited sequel to 1996's "Darkest Night of the Year" Christmas album, bringing all-original Christmas songs, just superb. Later this year, the band is slated to release "A Trumpet's Child", their next studio album. I've been following Over the Rhine since the early days, and they have taken many new turns along the way, but they've never ceased to amaze me. If you are new to OtR, "Discount Fireworks" is a great way to familiarize yourself with the band, and then dig into the individual albums. Highly recommended!

Average customer rating:

Totally hooked
Cuts to the heart
Second Best
A Terrific CD
Love it.

Red Dog Tracks
Chip Taylor , and Carrie Rodriguez
Manufacturer: Back Porch
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Alt-Country & Americana | Country | Styles | Music

General | Country | Styles | Music

Singer-Songwriters | Pop | Styles | Music

Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music

General | Rock | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

The Trouble With Humans
Seven Angels on a Bicycle
Fair & Square
The Trouble With Humans
Let's Leave This Town

ASIN: B00094ASV8
Release Date: 2005-05-24

Tracks:

Must Be The Whiskey
Keep Your Hat On Jenny
Big Moon Shinin'
Oh Set A Light
Once Again, One Day...Will You Be Mine
Private Thoughts
My Bucket's Got A Hole In It
The Wonder Of You
I Can't Help It (If I'm Still In Love With You)
Red Dog Tracks
Elzick's Farewell
Son Of Man
Jenny Reprise

Album Description

Chip Taylor and Carrie Rodriguez are joined by guitar legend Bill Frisell on the new Red Dog Tracks, released May 24 by Back Porch Records. The duo's widely heralded 2003 album, Trouble With Humans, found "stunning fiddler turned twangy chanteuse" Rodriguez and Taylor, a writer of "resonant songs," "making some of the most distinctive acoustic music around today" (all NY Times). A pinnacle of his four-decade-plus career, Trouble With Humans earned across the board critical attention. Red Dog Tracks builds on the success of its predecessor, promising to outstrip the duo's past accomplishments.

Recorded over three days at New York's Avatar Studios, Red Dog Tracks consists largely of first and second takes, capturing the natural chemistry between the two musicians. In addition to fan favorite "Son of Man," the poetic "Big Moon Shinin'," and the gospel-inspired "Oh Set A Light," Red Dog Tracks includes the duo's spirited takes on Clarence Williams' "My Bucket's Got A Hole In It" and Hank Williams' lonesome "I Can't Help It (If I'm Still In Love With You)." Backed by Jim Whitney (bass), Kenney Wollesen (drums) and Frisell's understated accompaniment, the band perfectly compliments Taylor's poignant songwriting, his earthy singing, and Rodriguez's sultry vocals.

A consummate, deft songwriter and a stirring performer, the accomplished Taylor has written a vast catalog of unforgettable songs, including the rock classic "Wild Thing" and soulful country number "Angel of the Morning;" artists as varied as Jeff Beck, Frank Sinatra, and Hank Williams, Jr. have covered the troubadour's tunes. Lucinda Williams told The New York Times, "Chip really knows how to craft a song." Taylor found classically trained fiddle player Rodriguez plying her trade at 2001's South By Southwest Festival. Taylor and initially reluctant songbird Rodriguez have wowed critics, fans, and fellow musicians alike with their exquisite performances. The duo's third album, Red Dog Tracks, finds the partners at the top of their game.

Customer Reviews:

Totally hooked.......2007-03-09

I first heard "Must Be the Whiskey" on a college radio station while driving in my car and was so blown away I nearly ran off the road! Fortunately I was able to catch the album title and bought it immediately. The rest of the CD did not disappoint and I am totally hooked. Every song has something intimate and infectious about it, whether it's the lyrics, the harmonies, the groove, or the heartfelt delivery. Highly recommended even if you're not into country or blugrass.

Cuts to the heart.......2007-02-13

Lots of great tracks, and a few truly unforgettable ones (e.g., Red Dog Tracks, Keep your Hat on Jenny). Taylor is a great songwriter, and Rodriguez's vocals and fiddle playing are superb. This album is full of soul; you won't be dissapointed. Every bit as good as "The Trouble with Humans".

Second Best.......2006-11-04

Not as good as "The Trouble with Humans" CD, but we really do like this duo. They are great together. What good harmony!

A Terrific CD.......2006-08-15

This is fabulous music in every respect. My wife and I just discovered Chip and Carrie and are grateful to the person who introduced us to this CD. This couple deserves a lot more attention and exposure than they seem to be getting

Love it........2006-07-14

This is really nice stuff. If you don't listen to blue grass but think you might like to, this won't let you down. Give it a try!

Music Info: