The American

The American

Editorial Reviews
Amazon.com
On his major-label debut, Martin Sexton employs major-label producer Danny Kortchmar (Don Henley, James Taylor) to assemble a 12-track collection, comprised of new material and rerecorded tunes lifted from his self-produced demo, In the Journey, and indie release, Black Sheep. Layered guitar-and-vocal tracks add texture, but the extra knob turning and keypunching robs The American of the raw energy that made Sexton's earlier recordings so compelling. His talents are most pronounced when he is the primary attraction, and the more complex production found here forces him to compete with his backing tracks for attention. All is not lost, however. The songwriting remains strong on tracks such as "Glory Bound" (a narrative of life on the road in search of success) and "Love Keep Us Together" (a promise to the son Sexton fathered out of wedlock at age 19). There are also moments where his vocals are powerful enough to lift his songs higher. "Diggin' Me" finds Sexton exploring his dynamic range with a scat breakdown session, and "The Way I Am" allows him to show off some soulful yodeling. --Jason Pascal

Tracks:

Never Again
One Minute
Hole
Sober
Don't Waste Your Time
Judas
Haunted
Be Still
Maybe
How I Feel
Yeah
Can I Have A Kiss
Irvine

Amazon.com

Judging by the themes of anger and betrayal that dominate Kelly Clarkson's third disc, My December, perhaps 'Jagged Little Idol' would have been a more telling title. According to interviews, the massively successful artist wanted more creative control with her music going forward; as a result, unlike her previous CDs, Clarkson contributes as a songwriter on every track. The final product is not nearly as catchy as Breakaway, but is far more introspective and honest. My December's overall sound brings a harder musical style than fans might expect, with acerbic lyrics to match; the disc's first single "Never Again"--a dark rock song slamming her ex-boyfriend--is certainly a tip-off. The compelling chorus of "Hole" finds Clarkson singing "There's a hole/inside of me/it's so damn cold/slowly killing me" over a melody that is far more Tool than top-40. "Haunted" and "Judas" are wrought-over tracks that veer into Evanescence territory, while the wonderfully sparse "Maybe" is a highlight within which Clarkson's pleading voice is perfectly showcased. My December's final listed track, "Irvine" (prior to the hidden bluesy acoustic ballad "Chivas") sounds far more Cat Power-meets-Corinne Bailey Rae than Clarkson, but it is certainly one of the most captivating songs on the disc, and serves as yet another reminder of just how versatile her voice is. Fans of her previous radio-friendly releases may well be divided on her new direction, but it appears to be the path Clarkson is likely to continue to travel. --Denise Sheppard

More from Kelly Clarkson

Breakaway

Thankful

Since U Been Gone

Customer Reviews:

Great but fades towards the end.......2007-08-01

The first few tracks are great. Kelly is trying new things but it still is classic Kelly. The songs get weaker though towards the end. Still good songs but not her best stuff.

Kelly Clarkson Is Solid As A Rock!.......2007-08-01

Darkly beautiful, brash, vulnerable and artistically sound, "My December" has come early in the career of Kelly Clarkson. Few artists would have dared show what she has the heart to share with us after what seems to be such a short time. This collection of songs marks the official end of Kelly's infancy in this business. She has graduated, with honors, and cemented her place in the elite world of Superstardom. The brouhaha that ensued with the release of this CD can only serve to propel it to where it rightfully belongs. Those of you who are only familiar with the anthem to retibution, "Never Again," have a few surprises in store for them when Kelly tenderly turns the page and begins her first ballad on the CD, "Sober." In fact all the ballads on this CD are worthy of being released as singles and able to stand on their own. "Be Still" - "Maybe" - "Irvine" are all varying aspects of Kelly's heart and her journey thus far. Her career is far, far away from her December and with this, the first offering of Kelly's own works, it looks like it will take many,many more December's of her life to come and go before anyone will want to close the door on this talented, multi-faceted rock star/chanteuse.

Kelly's album...not her best but not bad.......2007-08-01

I was excited when Kelly's new album was coming out. I love her music and have followed her from Idol till now. Kelly is still having growing pains in trying to find herself as an artist. Although it is easy to take help from Clive Davis...Kelly chose to carve her own path artistically with this record. Kelly falls slightly short overall, but her efforts are to be commended. She has experienced true success quickly and a little bit of reality check may be what helps her find her balance as an artist. I predict her next album will be better as most of us learn from our mistakes and take our successes and improve upon them.

Good.......2007-08-01

Kelly is such a talented and beautiful girl. This album is good, but not her best. I think she sounds like she is screaming alot and many of the songs sound the same. It's a sad album - maybe she needed to get some things off her mind?

My December is a great album!.......2007-08-01

I love this album because it is so different from the 'pop' music of today! the songs are actually ::gasp:: meaningful which i never see anymore!, my favorites are Maybe, Sober, How i feel, and Hole, if you like actual good music....check out My December!.

Average customer rating:

Solid cd by second best Idol
Good first album
Explicit lyrics?
!! NOT EXPLICIT- CLEAN ROCK!!!
NOT EXPLICIT!!!

Daughtry
Daughtry
Manufacturer: RCA
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Taylor Hicks
Elliott Yamin
My December
Some Hearts
All the Right Reasons

ASIN: B000IY04RC
Release Date: 2006-11-21

Tracks:

It's Not Over
Used To
Home
Over You
Crashed
Feels Like Tonight
What I Want (featuring Slash)
Breakdown
Gone
There And Back Again
All These Lives
What About Now

Amazon.com

Chris Daughtry starts his first post-American Idol disc with a song whose title reviewers coast to coast will be grateful for: "It's Not Over." What an understatement. For the Idol-watching rock fan's money, nobody--not even Southern-fried heartthrob Bo Bice in season four--stormed the stage with more raw talent. That it translates so well to a solo disc (Daughtry was recorded with studio musicians; future discs will include a Daughtry-assembled band) proves all he needed was a little prodding, the kind the tube has gotten so good at. Here are a dozen songs that'll flick your rock & roll switch, whether you're a Creed fan, a club kid, or a mambo king: "Used To" and "Over You," a couple of early tracks, ought to arrive bundled with a road map they're so highway sing-along-ready, and "Feels Like Tonight" screws the lid on the premise that Daughtry can deliver a punchy pop-rock song without flinching. Elsewhere, the North Carolina family man lets his inner (and outer, actually) goatee- and eyeliner-type guy rip: his built-for-the-hard-stuff voice bites down appealingly on "Breakdown," a dark serenade to mental health, and also on "What I Want," an '80s-style fist-pumper featuring Slash. The loud mad dash of those songs leads to a midtempo wind-down ("All These Lives," "What About Now"), but as a mix, it works. Daughtry is a man of many moods--contemplative, explosive, insistent, humble. No matter which pokes through on a given song, he steadies it to a place as honest as it is accessible. Rare is the rocker who lays out so broad an on-ramp. --Tammy La Gorce

Customer Reviews:

Solid cd by second best Idol .......2007-08-02

Bought this at the same time I bought Elliott Yamin's album. I thought Elliott was more talented on the show, although it is hard to compare two such different entertainers. Not so hard with the albums. This one showcases the talent we saw out of Chris on Idol. Solid, if unspectacular performances, but solid nevertheless. I have listened to it repeated times, the true test of an album... at least to me.

Good first album.......2007-08-01

There are several songs on this album that stand out and are memorable, many of them (the ones not written by Daughtry and his band) are acceptable to good background music. I await his second album and hope that he takes more risk and makes a little more noise.

Explicit lyrics?.......2007-07-31

[...] This is probably the most G rated CD I listen to. It has heartfelt lyrics and if I had children I would have no problem with them listening to this.
The people in this band are family men and are proud of it.
[...]

!! NOT EXPLICIT- CLEAN ROCK!!!.......2007-07-31

I don't know how the Explict tag wound up on this CD! I have had this CD since the day it was released and had it on continuous play for the first seven months. I have mentioned in boards before this how much I appreciated the fact that this CD was clean, I am really careful what I listen to and love the fact there are no songs I need to skip because of content. Chris has mentioned before that he wanted to make sure this was a CD his kids could listen to. Does RCA know you put this tag on here??

NOT EXPLICIT!!!.......2007-07-31

This is an excellent album, whose music crosses various genres, even though it is classified as rock. Please do not be fooled by the rating system! There are absolutely NO explicit lyrics on this album. Chris Daughtry has addressed this issue and ststed that he has children, and he would like them to be able to listen to what their father creates!

[...]

Jersey Boys (2005 Original Broadway Cast)

Average customer rating:

Jersey Boys
Jersey Boys relived
Jersey Boys-original broadway cast recording
Jersey Boys (2005 Original Broadway Cast)
Jersey Boys

Jersey Boys (2005 Original Broadway Cast)
Ronald Melrose , Ken Dow , Anik Oulianine , Stephanie Cummins , Deborah Hurwitz , Kevin Dow , Joe Payne , Larry Saltzman , Dave Spier , Bill Hayes , Randall Andos , Bob Milikan , Debra Shufelt , Maxine Roach , Belinda Whitney , Cenovia Cummins , Eric de Gioia , Louise Owen , Robin Zeh , Sarah Schwartz , Shinwon Kim , Christian Hoff , Daniel Reichard , Donnie Kehr , Erica Piccininni , J. Robert Spencer , Jennifer Naimo , John Lloyd Young , Sara Schmidt , Tituss Burgess , Steve Orich , and Bob Gaudio
Manufacturer: Rhino / Wea
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Very Best of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons
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Grey Gardens - A New Musical (2006 Original Broadway Cast)
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The Color Purple (2005 Original Broadway Cast)

ASIN: B000BFH2QY
Release Date: 2005-11-01

Tracks:

Ces Soirees la'
Early Years Medley
Cry For Me
Backups Medley
Sherry
Big Girls Don't Cry
Walk Like A Man
December, 1963
My Boyfriend's Back
My Eyes Adored You
Dawn (Go Away)
Big Man In Town
Dialog: A Little Trouble
Beggin'
Dialog: See How You Handle It
Medley Listen Listen
c'mon marianne
Can't Take My Eyes Off Of You
Working My Way Back To You
Fallen Angel

Amazon.com

Although it squarely falls in the "jukebox musical" category, Jersey Boys doesn¹t try to integrate its songs in an artificial plotline. The show tells the story of the early-1960s group the Four Seasons, and the musical numbers tend to be introduced in context, as when songwriter Bob Gaudio comes up with a tune, or the quartet performs a show. This allows Jersey Boys to flow better than some of ill-fated peers, and the actors can shine without having to bend backward to accommodate an inane book. The show's most (only) daring move is to start with a hip-hop-tinged French-language version of "December 1963 (Oh, What a Night)," an actual hit in France in 2000. After that it's all VH1-biopic territory, but it's done with so much flair, taste and energy that the ride's a fun one. The Four Seasons had enough hits ("Sherry," "Big Girls Don't Cry," "Rag Doll," etc.) to easily fill an evening at the theater, so it's left to the cast to do right by them. And it does, particularly John Lloyd Young as the band¹s star lead, Frankie Valli. Young hits all the falsetto notes and brings real freshness to the part. His "Can¹t Take My Eyes Off You," a second-act peak, is signed, sealed and delivered with a star's acumen. --Elisabeth Vincentelli

Album Description

Recounting the rich history and reliving the timeless sounds of the phenomenal Frankie Vallie & The 4 Seasons, the new Broadway musical Jersey Boys answers the musical-and philosophical question, "How did four would-be wise guys from Newark, NJ, become one of the greatest chart-topping successes in pop music history?" Jersey Boys celebrates legendary Rock and Roll Hall of Famers Frankie Valli, Bob Gaudio, Tommy DeVito, and Nick Massi who, as the 4 seasons, wrote their own songs, invented their own identity, and sold 175 million records worldwide-all before they were 30.

Customer Reviews:

Jersey Boys.......2007-07-30

This is one of the best CDs I have ever purchased. The cast of Jersey Boys gave an outstanding performance. They were just as good as the original Four Seasons. I relive many happy memories when I listen to this CD.

Jersey Boys relived.......2007-07-28

This is a great way to re-live the musical. And even if you haven't seen it, it's a great way to be introduced to the songs of Franki Valli and the Four Seasons. Wow! It's amazing all of the songs you recognize that have been re-done over the years. But the originals are always the best. Check it out!

Jersey Boys-original broadway cast recording.......2007-07-26

Fabulous! I loved that they included much of the dialog from the show and the music was impeccable.

Jersey Boys (2005 Original Broadway Cast).......2007-07-19

Singers doesn't try to make the same sound the same original. The music sounds like the voices don't care about what they are doing. I was kinda disappointed.

Jersey Boys.......2007-07-08

Purchased CD prior to seeing the show when visiting USA in '06. A fun lively show - the CD now captivates those fond memories of not only the foot tapping music & show but also our special time in New York.

Average customer rating:

Good Pop
Album starts off well then fades...
Over and over again
very listenable tracks
excellent album

How To Save A Life
The Fray
Manufacturer: Sony
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Eyes Open
Continuum
Eye To The Telescope
Move Along
Sam's Town

ASIN: B000AA301G
Release Date: 2005-09-13

Tracks:

She Is
Over My Head (Cable Car)
How To Save a Life
All At Once
Fall Away
Heaven Forbid
Look After You
Hundred
Vienna
Dead Wrong
Little House
Trust Me

Amazon.com

On their full-length debut, Denver quartet the Fray don't exactly reinvent the wheel, but those looking for melodic, mid-tempo pop could do far worse. That said, the 12 songs on Top 40 hit How To Save a Life are barely distinguishable from each other. If you like one, you'll probably like the rest (and you'll be in the company of thousands of other listeners.) If you don't like one, it's unlikely the others will change your mind. Formed in 2002 and signed by Epic in 2004, the band consists of Isaac Slade (vocals, piano), Joe King (guitar, vocals), Ben Wysocki (drums), and Dave Welsh (guitar). Since their formation, the Fray have elicited comparisons to British groups like Coldplay and Keane, and American ones like Counting Crows and the Wallflowers. They've also toured with Weezer and Ben Folds and had songs--like first single "Over My Head (Cable Car)"--featured on such popular programs as Grey's Anatomy. Though they incorporate guitar, unlike Keane, Slade's expert piano playing is prominent on every track. To his credit, he can also hit the high notes just as gracefully as Coldplay's Chris Martin, but therein lies the rub: As with the band as a whole, Slade hasn't quite found his own voice yet. How To Save a Life is polished and professional, bland and inoffensive. It goes down easy, but evaporates into the ether just as quickly. --Kathleen C. Fennessy

Customer Reviews:

Good Pop.......2007-07-20

Not bad, 3 stars only. Songs all kind of sound the same after a few plays!

Album starts off well then fades..........2007-07-19

By now, most people who listen to alternative rock have heard of these guys. If you are reading this, then you want to know "Do I really want this album?". I think if you like the genre of music a lot (like Coldplay, Blue October, Keane), the go ahead and give this album a try. If you just like one of their songs, consider downloading that song and a couple more (chose from tracks 1 - 6 for more upbeat melodies and after for slower ones). The album tended to grow on me but is still not one I listen too all that often because of many of the songs sounding very similar.

Over and over again.......2007-06-16

I heard "Over MY Head" on a TV cable series, found it catchy, and wanted to find out who recorded it. After an eventful personal odyssey, I finally discovered this. Unfortunately my journey was a wasted effort. HOW TO SAVE A LIFE, the debut album for this piano-based-sounding group (from Denver-if that has any significance), is pleasant enough, that is, on first listening, but it is clearly superficial and soon becomes redundant. The enticing single "Over My Head" does have an entertaining chorus and a memorable refrain that makes nice use of the cable car metaphor. The majority of the other compositions on this album, however, sound as if they were manufactured by a cookie cutter song machine. Indeed, I don't think I recall ever hearing selections that were so much alike: they use a very (VERY) similar musical structure, are almost identical in studio production, and follow the same form- opening with an understated verse which then moves speedily to a chorus (that sounds like the chorus of the previous song) and repeats ala loop to make the statement. A slight exception might be the title track "How To Save A Life" (apparently among those heard on Grey's Anatomy) with its delicate piano intro and tender ballad-like message or "She Is" which demonstrates a bit of a driving rhythm. But even those do not stray too far away from the mold. They both, for example, still employ the same repetitious chorus device (in fact, when I was listening to "How to Save A Life" I thought it was "Over My Head."). The rest aren't even worth comment other than to say they are undistinguished. At best, they are derivative in content (borrowing from other vanilla-type ensembles) which nonetheless still does not excuse their own absence of variety. Likewise, the lead singer's voice, reminiscent perhaps of David Gray's, fits the tone of "Over My Head," but by the time you hear its whining character on two or three of the other tracks [incidentally- NOT like David Gray], you may want to be rescued from the experience. The continued exposure will either annoy you or put you to sleep.
To the point, this first album for The FRAY indicates that the group understands the concept of formula far too well. They should appreciate, however, that comfortable and familiar often leads very quickly to boring. With that in mind, most, if not all, of this can be thrown in the waste bin unless you are looking for sounds that will induce deep slumber. To be honest, its most salient feature is monotony. It is unobtrusively bland and shallow, with little evidence of either creative or original effort.

very listenable tracks.......2007-06-04

I spend most of my time in Europe, so I don't get too much exposure to up and coming bands. By chance on a recent trip home I heard The Fray on one of the 'Top 40' programs. I liked what I heard, sampled a few tracks online, and bought the music. While I might agree with the numerous reviews that say many of the Fray's songs sound similar, I still enjoy them. I recommend giving a listen to the Fray and look forward to seeing what comes next from them.

excellent album.......2007-05-26

This album is a great album. Each song is really good. Very mellow.

Average customer rating:

EVERY SONG IS SO GOOD!
Outstanding effort with a little of everything.
an amazing album!
Bad Advice -- Where is the Real Kelly Clarkson?
Kelly breaks away! 4 stars!

Breakaway
Kelly Clarkson
Manufacturer: RCA
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Similar Items:

Thankful
Some Hearts
Love. Angel. Music. Baby.
Monkey Business
American Idiot

ASIN: B00064ADRK
Release Date: 2004-11-30

Tracks:

Breakaway
Since U Been Gone
Behind These Hazel Eyes
Because Of You
Gone
Addicted
Where Is Your Heart
Walk Away
You Found Me
I Hate Myself For Losing You
Hear Me
Beautiful Disaster (Live)

Amazon.com

Kelly Clarkson could have played her American Idol-propelled career much differently, languishing in the role of dippy ingénue or shunting her musical development by leaning too heavily on overnight stardom. Instead she dug in her heels and allowed good sense (or a good manager) to steer, and somewhere Simon Fuller and the rest of the TV gang ought to be smiling. Credit Breakaway, which couldn't be more aptly titled--the sophomore effort represents a seismic split from the thin if pretty debut, Thankful. Here we encounter Clarkson as superstar, with the humility that made her likable on the first disc tucked tightly under her arm. First single and leadoff track "Breakaway" topped the pop charts on arrival, and its rock-friendly thumps, dips, and rolls don't wear out their welcome. Instead,they blend into the firestorm of beats and guitars that is "Since U Been Gone," another shout-it-out rocker. Those songs set the tone for the rest of the disc in all its fury: The innocence is long gone, "Addicted" and "Hear Me" say. The big, expressive voice ringed by the occasional high-pitch trill--the one that prompted millions to get behind her on Idol--doesn't dip entirely off the radar, though. On "Where Is Your Heart" and the stunning live closer "Beautiful Disaster," it's there in full force--a hint, maybe, that despite the wide, smart career step Breakaway represents, her fans come first. -Tammy La Gorce

Customer Reviews:

EVERY SONG IS SO GOOD!.......2007-07-20

Its been a long time since I have bought a c.d. where I liked more than two songs. I really like every song.

Outstanding effort with a little of everything........2007-07-14

It's funny that, as big of an American Idol fan as I am, I had never bought a CD from an American Idol until now (though I had been given Clay Aiken's first CD as a gift and LOVED it). I'm so glad I bought this one.

We all know Kelly has a powerhouse voice, but this CD shows that her talent has staying power. I have only listened to the CD all the way through 2 or 3 times so far, but I have liked nearly everything I have heard, and I like that there is some variety in the tempo.

an amazing album!.......2007-06-29

it's nothing like breakaway...in my december kelly shows it's not just about the over done poppy tunes but it's about emotions and the music. its a must buy!!

Bad Advice -- Where is the Real Kelly Clarkson?.......2007-06-27

The problem is not so much Kelly Clarkson, it's the record BUSINESS. What happens to people who win a singing competiton, doing songs their OWN way and singing the type of material they do best, is that record executives like Clive Davis tell them, "you've got to sing this in order to sell records." He did it to Fantasia Barrino and I suspect he'll do the same to Jennifer Hudson.

Poor Kelly is yelling her head off about nothing. I've heard that recently, she is fighting back. Good for her. Kelly realizes that if she continues in this vein, she'll look up 25 years from now and realize she has recorded a lot of junk that nobody cares about.

Look at artists like Aretha Franklin. She can proudly look at her discography and find countless gems that have become standards; people are still dancing to "Respect" and other singers are covering "Daydreaming," "Natural Woman," "Until You Come Back To Me," etc. Take Motown. Over 40 years later, everybody, even young people know "Dancing in the Street, " "Come See About Me," "Please Mr. Postman," etc.

Is there anything coming out of today's music that will last more than three months? Kelly needs to sing power ballads and NOT urged to sound like other singers. THIS IS HER CAREER. She wants to make a mark, not just be another girl singer who made some bad records.

Kelly breaks away! 4 stars!.......2007-06-24

I find that this CD is pretty good. It's really catchy but her first was a bit better because there was more soul in her voice and R&B songs.

*The Good*

Breakaway
Since U Been Gone
Because Of You
Gone
Addicted
Where Is Your Heart
Walk Away
You Found Me
I Hate Myself For Losing You

*Doesn't Hurt Or Help*

Behind These Hazel Eyes
Hear Me
Beautiful Disaster (Live) (The version on her first CD is far superior. And for some strange reason, Kelly changes some of the original lyrics)

*The Filler*

Nothing really.

Average customer rating:

Sloe Gin
Joe Bonamassa
Manufacturer: Premier Artists
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Similar Items:

Truth
Blue Velocity
Close as You Get
10 Days Out (Blues from the Backroads)/ (CD/DVD)
So, It's Like That

ASIN: B000SO7IX0
Release Date: 2007-08-21

Tracks:

Ball Peen Hammer
One of These Days
Seagull
Dirt in my Pocket
Sloe Gin
Another Kind of Love
Around the Bend
Black Night
Jelly Roll
Richmond
India

Product Description

Voted by Guitar Player readers as 2007's Best Blues Guitarist, blues-rock guitar virtuoso, vocalist, and songwriter JOE BONAMASSA is set to release his seventh solo album, SLOE GIN, on August 21, 2007. Bonamassa's fourth release, the disc re-teams him with producer Kevin Shirley (Joe Satriani, Black Crowes, Aerosmith, Led Leppelin), who produced 2006's YOU & ME, which debuted at #1 on Billboard's Blues Chart in June of last year.

SLOE GIN effortlessly ranges through heavy blues and acoustic numbers alike, a textured flow that Bonamassa says was in part inspired by Rod Stewart's legendary 1969 debut solo LP. In the liner notes, Joe adds, "I sequenced the album as a throwback to the side A/side B set-up of vinyl records...listening to an album as a whole is a lost pastime. i wanted to bring that experience back around.

Renowned for this fluid phrasing and post-modern fusion of traditional roots blues with rock and roll guts, Bonamassa began playing guitar at age four, and toured with blues icon B.B. King when he was twelve. Recently, Joe was named Best Blues Guitarist in Guitar Magazine's 2007 Reader's Choice Awards. He is also the youngest member of the Memphis, TN-based Blues Foundation's Board of Directors, and a spokesperson for their respected Blues in the Schools Program.

Average customer rating:

Not up to hopes
Great Talent.
Where's the Jazz...?
Impressive debut!
Elliott's AMAZING

Elliott Yamin
Elliott Yamin
Manufacturer: Hickory Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Contemporary R&B | R&B | Styles | Music

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Similar Items:

Daughtry
Katharine McPhee
Small Town Girl
Introducing Joss Stone
Taylor Hicks

ASIN: B000N60HD6
Release Date: 2007-03-20

Tracks:

Movin On
Wait For You
Find a Way
One Word
You Are the One
I'm the Man
Trainwreck
Free
Alright
Take My Breath Away
A Song For You

Amazon.com

Elliott Yamin's debut is so agreeable and well-executed it may well convert hardened R&B experts--the kind who'd normally distance themselves from a disc with a TV pedigree. With sincerity and a voice that vaults itself to places no talent-show contestant should be able to go, Yamin bares his soul here in a way that would do his hero, Donny Hathaway, proud. Tracks like "Take My Breath Away" and "You Are the One" find him twisting a wrench around love-stained lyrics; "I'm the Man" and "Find A Way" flow with hat-in-hand grace (and, in the case of the latter, a scat worthy of a vintage jazz stage); and opener "Movin' On" immortalizes the season five judges'-table words of Paula Abdul: Ellliott Yamin is "one funky white boy." As he proves with this five-star album, he is also among the most gifted artists ever to a turn a stint on the show into a recording career. --Tammy La Gorce

Customer Reviews:

Not up to hopes.......2007-08-02

I was realy excited to get this cd, as I felt Elliott should have won American Idol. However, I don't think the songs were well chosen to showcase his talent and many of the songs arrangements overshadowed his dynamic vocal capabilities. I have listened to it twice and not been tempted to listen again.

Great Talent........2007-08-02

When I first heard him sing, I knew that he would win American Idol. But he didn't have the so-call look. Each song can hold it's on against some of the music out there now. I hope that his cd doesn't get lost like I've seen so many do. I pray that on his second cd that he works with stronger producers. Give this cd a try and you'll see what I mean.

Where's the Jazz...?.......2007-07-30

This is more about my musical preference than Elliott's album. That said, I'm pleased to see that he's being recorded. This is more about the type of music, rather than the quality. I love his voice. Selfishly, I'd like to hear more of him on the "Smooth Jazz" network. So.....I listened to the entire sampler first, and while I consider Elliott to be one of the best vocalists to pass through the Star Search mill, I truly believe that his handlers have yet to fit him into his zone. How can anyone listen to "Moody's Song" from the Season 5 show and album, and not see that Elliott should be showcasing his voice with quality jazz standards. Geeze, I'd love to hear Elliott do an album of Antonio Carlos Jobim. Sorry R&B'ers, but like a few other gifted singers that have passed through the Star Search machine, the material that made their voices soar on the show, the songs that said, "He/She sings this song better than I've heard it sung before...", well, that material doesn't seem to make it to their first commercial offerings? I'm not in the industry, yet I feel that as soon as someone puts Elliott into the same music circle of talent like Al Jarreau, Michael Franks and Bonnie Raitt...(yes, a mixed bag, but so talented), he'll shine as bright as any of today's contemporary smooth or traditional jazz greats. Give this boy the right material.

Impressive debut!.......2007-07-30

I admit it, I watch the show. I've watched it from about mid-way season 1. This is the first time I've felt compelled to write a review. Elliott's voice and genuine feeling captured me, no question. I don't care about his mother (sorry), I don't care about his diabetes, or his deafness (again, sorry--I know other people care about this kind of stuff, but I don't). He has a voice that fills me up!! I don't know a more eloquent way to say it, and for that, I apologize. But, his voice makes me joyous!

Some of the songs on this CD felt a little lacking at first, but just let Elliott overwhelm you with his feeling--and believe me he will. He takes these songs--some of them average, some impressive--he takes them to a different level. He's shown it here, give him better songs, and he will hit them outta the field! Honestly, I can't wait to see what he does next.

Elliott's AMAZING.......2007-07-25

I love it. I have never bought an American Idol record before... I've heard the songs they HAD to put out and hated them. I thought Elliott was so good on American Idol that I thought, like many others, that he should have remained on the show (like Daughtry also should have) but, nonetheless, he was dropped. Much to my shock, while walking through a department store I recently heard a song I loved.. it was "Wait for You" by Elliott. I was floored. He sounds SOOOO wonderful. Now I'm one of his biggest fans. Trust me, his voice just doesn't disappoint. And he's so down-to-earth in interviews and when he sings on shows (like Good Morning America, etc) that you can't do anything but just adore him. It's a great album and I look forward to his future released with great anticipation.

Average customer rating:

Best Jazz singer around
Cover Artist
Diana Krall Excells!
"From This Moment On" ~ Diana Krall
From This Moment On

From This Moment On
Diana Krall
Manufacturer: Verve
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Duets: An American Classic
Half the Perfect World
Not Too Late
Christmas Songs
Wintersong

ASIN: B000GG4KTU
Release Date: 2006-09-19

Tracks:

It Could Happen to You
Isnt This A Lovely Day
How Insensitive
Exactly Like You
From This Moment On
I was Doing All Right
Little Girl Blue
Day In Day Out
Willow Weep For Me
Come Dance With Me
You Can Depend On Me

Amazon.com

This album appears in the footsteps of 2004's The Girl in the Other Room but doesn't sound like a follow-up. Whereas The Girl saw the pianist-singer abandon the Great American Songbook for more personal pastures, From This Moment On sees her working out on standards done in traditional arrangements. Although the tracks here are by the likes of Cole Porter, Jimmy Van Heusen and Sammy Cahn, and the Gershwins, Krall sounds more at ease than ever before; perhaps digging deep inside on The Girl loosened her up. Backed by the Clayton/Hamilton Jazz Orchestra on seven tracks, Krall sings off the big band with ease. On the title track, she keeps up with a galloping bass and explosive brass arrangements and even ventures into scatting toward the end of the song. Her voice has also acquired a wonderfully worn texture in the past few years, and it works wonders on the ballads (just listen to "Isn't This a Lovely Day" and "Little Girl Blue" for instance). When standards are done like this, there's just nothing like 'em. --Elisabeth Vincentelli

Album Description

From This Moment On is an 11-song collection that captures the Canadian-born sensation in full swing, in great company, and at the top of her game. It could also be called her strongest, most cohesive release to date. Krall--for the few still unknowing--is the 41-year old sensation whose cool, heavy-lidded vocals and strikingly sensitive piano-playing has helped her transcend barriers of genre to become a popular artist of the first order who has carved herself a permanent position at the top of the jazz charts. In songs, mood, and delivery, From This Moment On reveals Krall's personal ardor for that golden era of song-making, when Frank Sinatra, Ella Fitzgerald, and (especially) Nat "King" Cole were in their prime. It's musical territory that Krall has often explored, but this album was certainly not a case of simply repeating past formulas: Krall's A-team of support--producer Tommy LiPuma, engineer Al Schmitt, and arranger/bandleader John Clayton--were on hand to ensure that inspiration was kept on an edge, unhindered by the studio environment.

More Diana Krall

All for You: A Dedication to the Nat King Cole Trio
Live in Paris
Love Scenes

The Girl in the Other Room
Christmas Songs
Stepping Out

Customer Reviews:

Best Jazz singer around.......2007-07-28

You can't go wrong if you purchase this cd. Diana Krall at her best!!!

Cover Artist.......2007-07-19

I listened Diana Krall live in concert tonight. I did not know much about her except that she is regarded as one of the greatest jazz artists of our generation which made me feel rather ignorant as I am a big fan of jazz. She played for an hour and a half tonight and she is obviously a talented musician. However, one thing struck me as odd ... for one of the shining lights of modern jazz, she sang one, ONE, original song. All of the music she played were covers of some of the greatest jazz music ever recorded. What became evident is that this talented woman bears a talent that is only skin deep. The one original song that she sang was horrendous, a lyrical disaster. I cringed each and every time the refrain was repeated. Granted the crowd, purveyors of insipid music one and all, ate it up. Her own music can't all be that bad can it? I walked away with the thought that music, as in fine arts, has simply become a playground for lazy artists to appeal to lazy fans who don't expect any more than rote regurgitation. Diana Krall is a cover artist. What galls me about her fame and fortune is that talent alone didn't make her famous. Is it because she's an attractive woman who can tickle the keys of a piano and sing in a sultry voice? There are multitudes of rock cover bands who get ridiculed for playing songs they didn't write. So, why does this woman get lauded for doing the same thing? Talented yes, but genius? ... to compare her to Cole Porter or Nat King Cole would be sinful.

Diana Krall Excells!.......2007-06-27

Diana has one of the greatest voices in the jazz biz. She plays a great piano, sings as a song bird, and is truly a marvelous performer.
(Cute too.)

Buy this one. If you like jazz, it is a Must in your portfolio/collection.

"From This Moment On" ~ Diana Krall.......2007-06-26

Listening to my CD of Diana Krall, "From This Moment On," is so relaxing.
Diana executes her songs with her strong, yet mellow voice.
The "back-up" band is a great asset to this CD, so between Diana singing and the band playing, you feel like you're "In Concert!"

Everyone HAS to hear it to believe it!

Mike

From This Moment On.......2007-06-10

From This Moment On~ Diana Krall is easy listening jazz at its best. Ms Kralls vocal skills are remarkable and she sings these traditional jazz tunes with conviction and fortitude of a grandmaster of jazz. The book-let is beautifull if a bit sparse. The photographs are simply put it amazing and she looks stunning. The production value is right on the money and I like it since it so easy to listen to even for jazz beginners such as myself. Highly recommended indeed and I easily give this album 5 out of 5 stars.

Average customer rating:

Duets: An American Classic
Better than it ought to be
I'm gonna wear this one out
Tony Bennett
It really swings

Duets: An American Classic
Tony Bennett
Manufacturer: Sony
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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From This Moment On
Awake
Love
Wintersong
James Taylor at Christmas

ASIN: B000H0MKGU
Release Date: 2006-09-26

Tracks:

LULLABY OF BROADWAY duet with Dixie Chicks
SMILE duet with Barbra Streisand
PUT ON A HAPPY FACE duet with James Taylor
THE GOOD LIFE duet with Billy Joel
THE SHADOW OF YOUR SMILE duet with Juanes
RAGS TO RICHES duet with Elton John
THE VERY THOUGHT OF YOU duet with Paul McCartney
COLD, COLD HEART duet with Tim McGraw
IF I RULED THE WORLD duet with Celine Dion
THE BEST IS YET TO COME duet with Diana Krall
FOR ONCE IN MY LIFE duet with Stevie Wonder
ARE YOU HAVIN ANY FUN? duet with Elvis Costello
BECAUSE OF YOU duet with k.d. lang
JUST IN TIME duet with Michael Bubl
THE BOULEVARD OF BROKEN DREAMS duet with Sting
I WANNA BE AROUND - duet with Bono
SING, YOU SINNERS duet with John Legend
I LEFT MY HEART IN SAN FRANCISCO
HOW DO YOU KEEP THE MUSIC PLAYING? duet with George Michael

Amazon.com

At this point, who else but Tony Bennett would have the clout to round up stars on the scale of Elton John, Paul McCartney, Bono, Celine Dion and Barbra Streisand for some duets? (Note also that unlike some similar projects, all the parties involved on this CD were alive when it was recorded!) The material consists of relatively obvious classics in standard big-band arrangements, and Bennett himself is in top form at age 80, so much so that he doesn't need anybody else to handle "I Left My Heart in San Francisco." But the fun comes from checking out how his collaborators fare. The Dixie Chicks provide wonderful Andrews Sisters-type harmonies on the percolating version of "Lullaby of Broadway" that opens the festivities. The best songs tend to be the ones where Bennett's slightly craggy voice is juxtaposed to smooth female ones, like Diana Krall on "The Best Is Yet to Come," familiar accomplice k.d. lang on the sultry "Because of You" and Streisand—-perhaps Bennett's only equal in stature at this point—on "Smile." Among the less expected guests, soulman John Legend is a revelation on the hard-swinging "Sing, You Sinners," while George Michael confirms he's quite the crooner on "How Do You Keep the Music Playing?" Elvis Costello, Celine Dion or Juanes don't sound as comfortable, and sometimes it feels as if they overdo it to compensate, but overall this collection is among the best of its kind, with most guests rising to the occasion. --Elisabeth Vincentelli

Amazon.com

Perfecting the art of excellence for over six decades, with 105 albums selling over 50 million copies, Tony Bennett has come to represent the essence of elegance, tradition and artistic accomplishments. Tony celebrates his 80th birthday recording Duets of his greatest hits with today's greatest artists: Bono, Michael Bublé, Elvis Costello, Celine Dion, Dixie Chicks, Billy Joel, Elton John, Juanes, Diana Krall, k.d. lang, John Legend, Paul McCartney, Tim McGraw, George Michael, Sting, Barbra Streisand, James Taylor, and Stevie Wonder.

More from Tony Bennett

The Art of Romance

A Wonderful World (with k. d. lang)

Perfectly Frank: An American Classic Celebrates 80

Basie Swings, Bennett Sings (DVD)

The Movie Song Album

The Classic Collection (Box Set)

Customer Reviews:

Duets: An American Classic.......2007-08-01

This is a lovely CD with my favorite singer Tony Bennett singing with so many celebrities. He shines through as always with finesse and charm. I am sure it was a great honor to all these celebrities to spend a cherished moment in time singing with one of the greats! I saw the taping of this CD on PBS and it made listening to the CD just that much more special.

Better than it ought to be.......2007-07-24

I bought this cd because I am a shameless hoarder of everything Diana Krall touches, plus I love the Dixie Chicks, and I am a flight attendant who leaves my heart in San Francisco with every take-off. I am not a huge Tony Bennett fan, but I love vocal jazz and the songbook of standards, so I figured how bad could it be? Going in with very moderate expectations, I was pleasantly surprised by this cd. It is fun to listen to because it was obviosuly fun for the artists to make. On almost every track, the mutual admiration and bottomless talent of Bennett and each of his guests allows the artists to relax and play with the music, with eminently listenable results. I have always hated "The Best is Yet To Come" until I heard T.B. and D.K. get together on it. Now it's one of my favorite songs! (as long as I listen to this version...) Sting amazes as a torch singer, and if you have ever doubted Michael Buble's chops, he'll make you believe on "Just in Time." If this is your style of music, you won't be disappointed.

I'm gonna wear this one out.......2007-07-19

What a great disc! Not only wonderful Tony, but some other great singers, as well. I listen to it in my car and then bring it in at home so I can listen some more. I fell in love with Tony Bennett in 1953 - even wrote him love letters. I was 13 and was thrilled when I received a signed glossy 8x10 photo from him. I belonged to his fan club. His "Rags to Riches" was on the radio a lot, and I had a little 45 player in my room to spin his records on. What a thrill to fall in love with him all over again in my old age! This album is a keeper. My favorite is his duet with Stevie Wonder, whose timing and sound are excellent. I wish there was a whole album of them together. Same with Diana Krall. Buy it. You won't be sorry.

Tony Bennett.......2007-07-16

Great duets, enjoyed every song on the CD!! He still continues to amaze me with that silky voice. He's a legend....

It really swings.......2007-07-14

All classics with new voices. I bought it after seeing the special on PBS.

Average customer rating:

Kings Hit a Triple
think infectious basslines.
Do not hesitate to buy if you were disappointed with ASH
Disappointing comeback
Best Alternative/Indie/Rock Album This Year

Because of the Times
Kings of Leon
Manufacturer: RCA
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Favourite Worst Nightmare
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Aha Shake Heartbreak

ASIN: B000MRA3NU
Release Date: 2007-04-03

Tracks:

Knocked Up
Charmer
On Call
McFearless
Black Thumbnail
My Party
True Love Way
Ragoo
Fans
The Runner
Trunk
Camaro
Arizona

Amazon.com

Aha Shake Heartbreak may have blown open the doors of fame for Kings of Leon, but their third full-length album (named for a United Pentecostal Church ministers' conference) could well usher the Nashville foursome directly to rock and roll's zenith. There's hardly a change in plans for the three Followill brothers and their cousin, and that means producer Ethan Johns, a smorgasbord of musical influences, and a cacophonous ensemble of guitar, bass, and drums. A trio of relentless rockers--"My Party," "Camaro," and the sarcastic "Charmer"--are sure to pacify those familiar with the Kings' blueprint, yet there is ripening in the band's approach heard, in several of the record's 13 songs. Reverb guitar and vocals and a "woo woo" chorus add a sinister aspect to "Trunk," and "Knocked Up" features a laissez-faire Caleb Followill crooning "She don't care what her mama said/She's gonna have my baby." The seven-minute revelation of fatherhood that opens the album leads into the U2-influenced "McFearless," a reggae-splashed "Ragoo," and the rambling English blues of "Black Thumbnail." It's a rogue element that has always left every record fresh, and this time it has Kings of Leon teetering on the edge of rock renown. --Scott Holter

Album Description

Third album from the rockin' American quartet whose previous albums (2003's Youth And Young Manhood and Aha Shake Heartbreak from '05) have earned them a large worldwide following. Consisting of three brothers and a cousin, the Kings Of Leon mix their own brand of Southern Rock with touches of Garage, Punk and Alternative swagger. RCA.

Album Details

Their third full length album.

Customer Reviews:

Kings Hit a Triple.......2007-08-02

I agree with the Stone that these guys keep getting better and better. I've got the other two discs and each one seems to build on the next. Everyone's playing on this CD stands out.

think infectious basslines........2007-08-02

not that my opinion really registers for anything, but i happen to think that this was a fantastic cd. to me, the extended period between their last cd seemed perpetual and when this cd was finally released, i was not disappointed. though i do like 'ahashake heartbreak' better, i still say that this cd is far from overrated. true its not part ll of the last cd but at least they took a different approach. too many bands produce so many identical records. change can be good. [can, but not always. however in this case it is.] i recommend this cd.

Do not hesitate to buy if you were disappointed with ASH.......2007-07-11

I thought Youth and Young Manhood was excellent, thought Aha Shake Heartbreak wasn't that good and therefore wasn't gonna pick up Because of the Times. But my husband had read good reviews and purchased it. Wow! What a coup/comeback for the Followill boys! I think this is their best so far; a very strong disc. I don't think there is a dud song on the whole album. I almost blew out the speakers in my car cranking up Black Thumbnail and My Party over and over and over. Moody, diverse, rockin' - love it! Buy it, you will not be sorry you did.

Disappointing comeback.......2007-07-07

Maybe it's just me, but I haven't been able to get into this. I loved their first album, thought their second one was okay, but this one may be worse than the last one. I can't really give too thorough of a review since I didn't get past the fourth song on the first listen, and haven't listened to it since, even seriously considered trading it in.

I got this CD after reading a stellar review by Q Magazine appauding it. Needless to say, I was disappointed.

Best Alternative/Indie/Rock Album This Year.......2007-07-05

If you're reading this review, you probably know to some extent who the Kings of Leon are - a relatively young indie-rock band out of Tennessee whose appeal is said to come from equal parts youthful energy and wisdom-beyond-their-years.

Their debut was a southern-fried scramble of distorted guitars and yelping vocals that seemed to delight in its own unholiness. On Because of the Times, the guitars are still distorted, the singer's still yelping and the themes aren't necessarily wholesome - see 'Knocked Up', in which singer Caleb belts "She don't care what her mama says, no she's gonna have my baby" - but at times there's a beauty to the arrangements that's almost divine.

That's not to suggest that the band has forgotten to rock, though, because they haven't; in fact, at this point in their career the band has the musicianship to back up their ambition, and the result is some of the most fulfilling rock you can hear on the indie scene today.

If you like either of KoL's previous two albums, you'll love this one. If you're looking for an introduction to the Kings of Leon's work, this is as good a starting point as any.

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