Finesse

Track Listings
 
1. Jonathan
2. On the Heights
3. Copenhagen Thought
4. Are You Free
5. It's Been Much Too Long
6. Tucker's Tune
7. You Satisfy the Need
8. See You in the Movies

Finesse,Images,Redstone,Contemporary Instrumental,Jazz,New Age,Popular Music

Finesse

Finesse
The Funky Technician
Average customer rating: Not rated
    		The Funky Technician
    Lord Finesse , and DJ Mike Smooth
    Manufacturer: Wild Pitch Records
    ProductGroup: Music
    Binding: Audio CD

    GeneralGeneral | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music
    GeneralGeneral | Dance Pop | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music
    East CoastEast Coast | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music
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    ASIN: B000KG4A96
    Release Date: 2007-02-13

    Tracks:

    1. Lord Finesse's Theme Song (Intro)
    2. Baby, You Nasty [New Version]
    3. Funky Technician
    4. Back to Back Rhyming
    5. Here I Come
    6. Slave to My Soundwave
    7. I Keep the Crowd Listening
    8. Bud Mutha
    9. Keep It Flowin'
    10. Lesson to Be Taught
    11. Just a Little Something
    12. Strictly for the Ladies
    13. Track the Movement
    14. Baby, You Nasty [12" Version]

    Product Description

    It was a simple formula, bring together one of the East Coast's finest rappers with some of the most clever track masters in Hip Hop, then add in a stellar DJ, and the results are bound to be exciting. "Funky Technician" was just that, an excellent album of battle rap with Lord Finesse simultaneously claiming and proving his immense skills over a set of funky backing tracks that used the familiar James Brown blueprint, but delivered it with unobtrusive class and innumerable displays of deft turntable wizardry. DJ Premier, Diamond D, Showbiz, and DJ Mike Smooth himself all contribute classic tracks, meanwhile, Lord Finesse is dropping rhymes to rank with Rakim and Kane. For example, on "Just a Little Something" with a raft of prizewinning multi-syllables: "Now I'm the constabulary, great in vocabulary/I'm no joke, when up against any adversary." Finesse is fresh and imaginative on nearly every line, and invites A.G. (aka Andre the Giant) for a guest spot on "Back to Back Rhyming." There were a lot of great rap records coming out of New York around the turn of the decade, though, and Funky Technician" never got the attention it deserved. Now after being out of print for years, this masterpiece album is finally re-released in it s full glory and even includes the 12" version of "Baby, You Nasty" (produced by DJ Premier), never before available on CD. This is a must-have for any fan of classic golden-era Hip Hop.

    Album Description

    It was a simple formula, bring together one of the East Coast's finest rappers with some of the most clever track masters in Hip Hop, then add in a stellar DJ, and the results are bound to be exciting. Funky Technician was just that, an excellent album of battle rap with Lord Finesse simultaneously claiming and proving his immense skills over a set of funky backing tracks that used the familiar James Brown blueprint, but delivered it with unobtrusive class and innumerable displays of deft turntable wizardry. DJ Premier, Diamond D, Showbiz, and DJ Mike Smooth himself all contribute classic tracks, meanwhile, Lord Finesse is dropping rhymes to rank with Rakim and Kane. Finesse is fresh and imaginative on nearly every line, and invites A.G. (aka Andre the Giant) for a guest spot on 'Back to Back Rhyming.' There were a lot of great rap records coming out of New York around the turn of the decade, though, and Funky Technician never got the attention it deserved. Now after being out of print for years, this masterpiece album is finally re-released in it's full glory and even includes the 12'' version of 'Baby, You Nasty' (produced by DJ Premier), never before available on CD.
    Finesse/Magnificent Madness
    Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
    • still waiting for Best Of....
    • Classic Klemmer!!!
    		 Finesse/Magnificent Madness
    John Klemmer
    Manufacturer: Wounded Bird Records
    ProductGroup: Music
    Binding: Audio CD

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    ASIN: B0009Y26H2
    Release Date: 2005-08-23

    Tracks:

    1. Finesse
    2. Man & Woman
    3. Sometimes
    4. Greatest Love of All
    5. Heart
    6. Sun, The Moon and the Stars
    7. Beloved
    8. But Are You Beautiful Inside?
    9. Magnificent Madness
    10. Heart (Summer Song)
    11. Don't Take Your Love Away
    12. I Can't Help It
    13. We Couldn't Start Over
    14. Deja Vu
    15. Life Song
    16. Adventures in Paradise

    Customer Reviews:

    5 out of 5 stars still waiting for Best Of...........2006-11-08

    With the very disappointing new announcement that the Very Best of John Klemmer release has been delayed until 2025!!! one wonders whether fans of Mr. Klemmer will have to remain satisfied with his past recordings....
    The anticipation that Mr. Klemmer will surprise his fans with something new and/or a public performance would be most welcome. I, for one, do not expect to be alive in 2025 and the delay of his newest release comes as a great disappointment. Those who are new to Mr. Klemmer's music can enjoy the breadth of his creativity, romance and artistry in his past recordings such as FINESSE. John Klemmer has the unique ability to express the unspoken through his music,and lift the spirit to a higher place, as if to say, "come join me in this dance called life...."
    Mr. Klemmer - please come out and play.... the world needs you :)

    5 out of 5 stars Classic Klemmer!!!.......2005-08-26

    Thumbs up Wounded Bird for releasing these classics. I could never find Finesse on cd until now this label continues to amaze me with all the titles they are putting out that are either oop or never available on the cd format. I would grab this up before it does go OOP!!! Highly Recommend!!!
    The Other Side
    Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
    • melissa ferrick
    • I am so addicted
    • Believe the reviews
    • the master class
    • Awesome Tunes
    		 The Other Side
    Melissa Ferrick
    Manufacturer: Right on Records
    ProductGroup: Music
    Binding: Audio CD

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    1. Freedom
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    ASIN: B00025ETXM
    Release Date: 2004-06-01

    Tracks:

    1. Beijing
    2. The Other Side
    3. Nebraska
    4. Streetlight
    5. I Give Up
    6. Bad Bad Girl
    7. Fearless
    8. Every Three Words
    9. Anything Anywhere
    10. Westbound

    Amazon.com

    On her seventh studio album, Ferrick gets in touch with her inner control freak, producing, arranging, recording, mixing, and playing every note. That sound you hear isn't a train wreck; it's her manic, percussive guitar and jittery drumming pushing her strongest set of songs over the edge of polite folk confines. The aggressive, albeit mostly acoustic, sound suits the sexual and personal confidence of her lyrics. She burns bridges and laughs, "I'm a wicked good swimmer/watch me dive." She dares an ex-lover to call her "fearless" and when she finds a new partner she threatens to dance into a romantic "slaughterhouse." But the set's finest moment is the deceptively simple highway song "Westbound," a trance-like groove surrounded by spacey synth loops and murmured vocals urging Ferrick further down the road--an apt closing sentiment for her most ambitious album. --Roy Kasten

    Customer Reviews:

    4 out of 5 stars melissa ferrick.......2007-05-12

    i personally love her music,found her on another melissa fan site.went and purchased a used cd.have all her music,will be seeing her for the first time this summer[07]

    5 out of 5 stars I am so addicted.......2005-01-07

    I recieved this CD in June for my birthday, and listened to it a few times....then when I really listened to it about a month later, I couldn't get enough of it, and I still can't seem to get it out of my CD player. I absolutely love Westbound and Every Three Words, well, actually there isn't a bad song on the whole CD. After seeing her in concert in December, I have discovered that I am completely addicted to ALL of her music... I am buying all the cd's as quick as I can find them. This is my favorite studio album (so far)!

    5 out of 5 stars Believe the reviews.......2004-12-04

    How many ways are there to say something's good? And how many reasons? I'll throw my 2 cents in because The Other Side really is that good, right up there with Everything I Need and Valentine Heartache, Melissa's 2 best studio albums in my opinion.

    She rocks out a bit more on this one, grooving hard on "Bad Bad Girl." "Beijing," the opening track, is the sort of catchy, joyous tune I haven't heard much of since Everything I Need. And the closing track, "Westbound," a low-key song with an undertoned chorus, incorporates electronic elements I haven't heard in her music before and makes the instrumentals more prominent and more important than the vocals.

    There really aren't any weak moments on the album. It's folk, pop, rock, and groove. It's very much Melissa.

    Don't forget that as good as she is in the studio, Melissa is even better live. So be sure to check out her 3 live albums and catch a show if you can.

    5 out of 5 stars the master class.......2004-09-30

    After seeing Melissa Ferrick so many times live I started to feel like her albums weren't living up to what I knew best became her - getting on stage and breathing it all: the music, the space, the audience. *The Other Side* has broken my disenchantment with her studio work. 30 seconds into the first song, you know it's all her, and you're grateful for every blissful minute of it. 'Beijing', 'Nebraska', and 'Bad Bad Girl' are standouts - perhaps we have a live replacement for 'Drive' in the latter? I haven't seen her perform in almost a year, but I would be ecstatic to see her drag that song out like she has 'Drive'.

    If you've never heard Melissa before, this or *Everything I Need* are good introductions. If it's been awhile, don't hesitate to get this album. And if you've never seen her live, save your money and get a ticket. One gets the feeling that she's found her calling and that she is singularly and entirely herself when performing these songs that mean so much to her. Rarely do I feel that so intensely at any show, and to see her is to feel a connection with her and Brian and everyone else in the room who is tossing around and sharing amazing energy. At a good show, it's better than drugs.

    5 out of 5 stars Awesome Tunes.......2004-08-03

    I am a recent Melissa Ferrick fan, and I must say I was impressed by this album. I have all her previous records, and Melissa is a musician that never ceases to amaze me. Every album has its own distinct flavor, and this one is no exception. Very different from her past inspirations, this album lacks much of the raw, gritty guitar on her older, much less-produced albums. I must say when I first played this album, I wasn't sure what to think. Especially by the end track "Westbound", which sounds more like a remix of something, but like I said: It's different, and I loved it for that. Like with her past albums, it displays a new side of her talent as a musician, as she plays all the instruments, and once again, we are blessed with her sexy in-your-face lyrics. I have to agree with the other folks who have written reviews that "Bad Bad Girl" is the best track on the album, though, I'd also like to cast a vote for "Anything Anywhere", and "Nebraska", though "Nebraska" isn't as powerful as the live version on "70 People at 7000 Feet". Then again, Melissa is always best live.
    Dancers of Twilight
    Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
    • Light the candles and the incense~
    • Join the Dance
    • Trance While Ya' Dance!!!
    • Sensuous, Earthy, and Heavenly
    • Hypnotic and Seductive
    		 Dancers of Twilight
    Zingaia
    Manufacturer: Sequoia Records
    ProductGroup: Music
    Binding: Audio CD

    GeneralGeneral | New Age | Styles | Music
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    ASIN: B00004Y6P1
    Release Date: 2000-11-14

    Tracks:

    1. Ondine
    2. Divine Flame
    3. Wild As You
    4. At The Window
    5. Shape Shifter
    6. Life After Life
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    8. Dark Eros
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    Album Description

    Pulsating global rhythms, sensual female vocals and smooth trance-dance grooves create a mystical mood. Building on the seductive energy of their acclaimed debut release, "Beneath the Veil," Zingaia has created their own original style of Goddess-inspired ambient world dance music. This rich enticing mix of exotic sounds from around the world and Abbi Spinner's sensual vocals, will ignite your inner fire of sacred passion.

    Customer Reviews:

    5 out of 5 stars Light the candles and the incense~.......2003-09-14

    Then close your eyes and go beyond your wildest dreams and fantasies. This music will make love to you as none other. I anxiously await a new release, and have done so for two years.

    This CD ( my fave ) and their first one, "Beneath the Veil" will transcend you.

    A music lover and collector, for years, these are my two top picks, for exotic and sensual. Beyond Deepak,Enigma and Rasa and any others in this New Age field, which has been my musical life for several years.

    5 out of 5 stars Join the Dance.......2003-02-18

    I absolutely loved Zigaia's first album, "Beneathe The Veil", so when I discovered their second album, I was thrilled to get it. The music is hypnotic, the vocals are sensual, the the beat makes you want to dance. It's perfect for bellydancers, but even if you don't own a coin belt, you can't help but move your hips to the drums. It's an amazing blend of seductive energy that truly celebrates the goddess in us all.

    Check out their other album, too!

    5 out of 5 stars Trance While Ya' Dance!!!.......2001-08-01

    Both of their albums are great. They are one of my favorite Witchy discoveries!

    The music is secuctive and richly sensual. Lush is a good word to describe it!

    Allow yourself to become a Dancer of Twilight!!!

    5 out of 5 stars Sensuous, Earthy, and Heavenly.......2001-07-17

    With the common thread of love songs to the soul, this collection of global, world beat sounds acknowledges every level and every chakra in unabashed celebration. Sensuous, earthy, and heavenly, in a breathtaking mood of wonder and awe, these love-based pieces resonate deeply through body and mind, kissing the soul with un apologetic affection. I was surprised at the wide range of moods. Rich with bass tones and interwoven percussion alongside astounding vocals, this album will find a variety of uses, from wooing a potential mate to comfort in times of distress to energetic housecleaning. It conveys a feeling of knowing the listener to a depth that can be disconcerting, and is sure to be popular with both young and - well, those not quite so young.

    4 out of 5 stars Hypnotic and Seductive.......2001-02-26

    Dancers of Twilight is definitely a "keeper" CD. Recently, I used several songs (#1 "Ondine" and #5 "Shape Shifter") as a soundtrack while shooting a stupendous storm of wildly dancing snowflakes and glittering ice crystals swirling on the wind currents blasting across the American River Canyon and transformed a winter wonderland home video into a magical moment on film. For this, among many other reasons, I love New Age music passionately because of the sense of creative freedom that it inspires within a person. Especially those moments when the "inner muse" that cannot be denied whispers "create your own reality" as the music lifts your spirit into a seemingly transcendant space where a song, a picture, a poem, a dance flows from one's heart, soul, body, imagination. Michael Breene is a terrifically gifted artist whose work is lush and inventive with his inspired use of percussive instruments and other FX that keep the listener engaged in his musical storyline. I particularly love the smooth synthesizer washes that he uses as a backdrop for the other dazzling effects in his aural palette. In addition to the two listed above, my favorite songs are "Magus" chanted by Jeff McBride, and the deeply moving "Dark Eros" which reaches within the shadow self and urges the physical passions to surrender to the moment.

    To this listener, there is but one flaw in this album. It is the over use of singing mantras and seemingly endless whispery voice-overs that bury the magic of the instrumental layering and distract the ear from the subtle nuances as well as the depth of meaning within Breene's music. I would have loved to hear the title song "Dancers of Twilight" as an instrumental-only version. This is, for me, also true of their first release "Beneath the Veil" which is quite gorgeous and trancelike, but again way too much vocal involvement interferred with the majesty of the music itself. In my view, the "less is more" approach to vocal tracks would have enhanced their impact overall, especially when the message is manifestly religious/spiritual in context. At these times a Light touch is more palatable and easier to assimilate. Personally, I would adore listening to a totally instrumental CD by this artist and I hope that in the future he will produce one. One final note of appreciation is for the artist who designed the graphics of both their albums. Wonderful!
    Platinum Slow Jams #28 (Mixtape)
    Average customer rating: Not rated
      		Platinum Slow Jams #28 (Mixtape)
      Ciara , Lloyd , Robin Thicke , Tyrese , and Avant
      Manufacturer: DJ Finesse
      ProductGroup: Music
      Binding: Audio CD

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      ASIN: B000PTZG2I

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      Return of the Funky Man
      Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
      • Hey look at shorty'
      • OG Funk
      • Lord Finesse delivers wit and funk!
      • simply excellent
      • One of my favorites.
      		 Return of the Funky Man
      Lord Finesse
      Manufacturer: Giant Records / Wea
      ProductGroup: Music
      Binding: Audio CD

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      ASIN: B000002L0N
      Release Date: 1992-01-28

      Tracks:

      1. Lord Finesse Intro
      2. Return Of The Funky Man
      3. I Like My Girls With A Boom
      4. Yes You May
      5. Hey Look At Shorty
      6. Praise The Lord
      7. Save That Shit
      8. Show 'Em How We Do Things
      9. Isn't He Something
      10. Fat For The 90's
      11. Stop Sweating The Next Man
      12. Funky On The Fast Tip
      13. That's How Smooth I Am
      14. Party Over There
      15. Fuck 'em
      16. Kicking Flavor With My Man

      Customer Reviews:

      5 out of 5 stars Hey look at shorty'.......2005-07-30

      Punchlines for days... The Funky man LORD FINESSE comes correct. The best rhymes done over some ol' school funk. Don't sleep. Add it to your collection right next to your showbiz & ag cd's!

      4 out of 5 stars OG Funk.......2001-08-10

      Finesse has done music for OC, Biggie, Brand Nubian, and Blue Note Records, but before all that he was a super-talented ( well he still is ) punchline rapper. This is a treasure from the golden period of East Coast hiphop ('87-'94 ) with beats from Diamond, Show b-i and The funkyman himself. This is beats and rhymes wtih the alll-natural funk. If you dig deep enough in the crates you will find it.

      4 out of 5 stars Lord Finesse delivers wit and funk!.......2000-10-18

      Lord Finesse improves on his first effort by using more obscure funk samples and drops some witty rhymes. I think that he's utterly hilarious and full of flava!

      this was the least sold but his finest effort to date. hopefully he will be dropping another album next year! All his fans are waiting for his funky go-ahead, simple-set production and utterly unique stylings of his voice!

      peaze everyone and cop this mf! Prinz alfie

      5 out of 5 stars simply excellent.......1999-08-04

      people of ditc never disappoint nobody and didn't it.my greats lord finisse

      5 out of 5 stars One of my favorites........1999-08-02

      For me, this album took "Funky Technician" to the next level. Finesse was 19 and funky on his last LP, but now he's 21 and hungry here. The production has advanced from simple James Brown loops to thunderous anthems (Fat for the 90's, Praise the Lord, the title track) cool posse cuts (Yes You May, Show 'Em How We Do Things) and laid back grooves (Hey Look at Shory, That's How Smooth I Am). This is the best comeback album ever; Finesse was dropped by Wild Pitch and floating in musical Limbo for a a year. Nice album all the way through.
      The Awakening
      Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
      • Lord Finesse Staying True To The Rap Game (Rating: 8 out of 10- -4 stars)
      • Classic...really beautiful hip hop
      • UNDERGROUND GEM.
      • Finesse definatly got the Game Plan and this is ACTUAL FACTS
      • The Lord at his Best
      		 The Awakening
      Lord Finesse
      Manufacturer: Tommy Boy
      ProductGroup: Music
      Binding: Audio CD

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      ASIN: B000003111
      Release Date: 1996-02-20

      Tracks:

      1. Da Sermon (Intro)
      2. Time Ta Bounce
      3. True And Lovin
      4. O Lord
      5. Brainstorm/P.S.K.-No Gimmicks Remix
      6. Taking It Lyte
      7. Gameplan
      8. Words From Da Ak
      9. Flip Da Style
      10. Showtime
      11. Speak Ya Peace
      12. Food For Thought
      13. Da Kid Himself
      14. Hip 2 Da Game
      15. No Gimmicks
      16. Bonus Track

      Customer Reviews:

      4 out of 5 stars Lord Finesse Staying True To The Rap Game (Rating: 8 out of 10- -4 stars).......2007-02-14

      Just to clarify to the reviewers and anyone who heard this album and claims that it sounds like an EP, that it is an EP. Not only it was advertised as an EP (Amazon should state that in it's product discription), but it is mentioned as an EP on the second track of the album. A lot of reviewers say that there are as many interludes as there are songs, which I personally don't have a problem with. The point is that they are there listed as individual tracks, so in case you do not want to hear them, skip over them, rather than them being placed at the beginning of the song, causing the listener to loose interest in the track before the actual song begins. The interludes average about a minute and a half. Also they have some dope beats that are played in the back, like "Taking It (MC) Lyte". "O' Lord" has O.C. spitting a few short rhymes on his interlude. So they are all great to listen to, with the exception of Akinyele screaming all over one them ("Words From Da Ak"). Personally, I see the interludes as like a preperation for a track, while giving the listener the option to hear them if they want to.

      Now that been said, the EP itself is excellent from Lord Finesse. Finesse is known for bringing you punchlines in your face, and he does them perfectly here. I disagree with one reviewer who claims that every other line is a punchline, although they are quite a few that flow all throughout this album. I find that the best tracks that Lord Finesse are on by himself are "True And Livin'" and "Hip 2 Da Game", because he flows more confortably on those tracks.

      Some of the best tracks are when there are guests on as well. "Brainstorm/P.S.K. (No Gimmicks Remix)" featuring KRS-One and O.C. is a good one and it sound better than the origonal version of "No Gimmicks" that is towards the end of the album. The one that has my attention the most and had me hitting the replay button was "Speak Ya Peace" with Marquee, Diamond D, and A.G. Dope lyrics comming from all four members as well as as a dope beat from Myke Loe. There is a bonus track at the very end called "Actual Facts" and it features Grand Puba, Sadat X, and Large Professor. All four of them on one track alone makes it worth listening to as well.

      So there you have it, Lord Finesse's EP "The Awakening". This EP is dope from beginning to the end and will gurantee satisfaction who is a fan of hip hop, especially in the early-mid 90's. This album was just reissued last year on Traffic Entertainment Group which was a very good idea to do. As for the price, I believe that anyone shouldn't pay no more than 20 bucks for this, seeing that the actual price is around 15 (and the fact that it is an EP, and the majority of them sell for around 10). But if you can find this EP at a reasonable price, go ahead and add it to your collection.

      One more thing before I finish (and this really isn't that important to some people). The reissue that is here on Amazon, has the product discription, and it shows quotes from The Rap Pages and The Source. Just to let you know, The Source gave this 3 Mics, and the Rap Pages gave this a 6 (out of 10). I was just wondering if they actually listened to the same EP that the reviewers here were listening to.

      Lyrics: A-
      Production: B+
      Guest Appearance (not including interludes): B+
      Musical Vibes: B+
      Overall B+

      Favorite Tracks: True And Livin', Brainstorm/P.S.K. (No Gimmics Remix), Speak Ya Peace, Hip 2 Da Game, and Actual Facts (Bonus Track)

      Peace Everyone!!!

      5 out of 5 stars Classic...really beautiful hip hop.......2006-08-22

      Throughout his career, Lord Finesse has been one of hip hop's strongest artists, producing great tracks for countless great artists and more than holding it down on the mic. "The Awakening" is the true gem of his career though. This album, originally released in 1995 and long out of print, showcases just how great he really was. This is an archetypical Diggin' in the Crates release, with guest appearances from many DITC members and the signature DITC sound that Finesse pioneered. The beats are full of deep funky bass, jazz sampling, great vocals, and a certain vibesy sound that no one else could ever manage to duplicate. Finesse's lyricism here is quite entertaining, he establishes himself as a master of punchlines. I could sit for a long time laughing at all the funny punchlines on "The Awakening", he does a great job. I like the length of this release too, it has 16 tracks but half are short skits with MCs giving props to Finesse. Even the skits are quite enjoyable though, because they always have such dope beats. "The Awakening" is a forgotten gem and a truly great hip hop album.

      After the intro, the first track is "Time to Bounce". It has an awesome beat, there's great bass, awesome vibes and drums, it always makes my head bob. "True and Livin'" is a slow rollin', chilled out song, great verses from the Lord and excellent production. O.C. drops a verse on his "O Lord" skit, which is followed by the excellent collaboration "Brainstorm/P.S.K. (No Gimmicks Remix)". My favorite song is the MC Lyte collaboration "Gameplan". Finesse tries to land Lyte's female character in this song, but the production is beautiful, such great instrumentals there and I really like the chorus. Akinyele shows his crazy style once again on his appearance in "Flip da Style", and Showbiz produces "Speak Ya Peace" in his guest spot. "Hip 2 Da Game" is one of the best here, great beat and punchlines from Finesse ("I see more skins than the average dermatologist!"). "No Gimmicks" is an awesome posse cut, and the bonus track is also great.

      "The Awakening" is an amazingly consistent, expertly produced and impeccably executed album. Finesse does an awesome job, and the guest spots are perfectly selected, it's like a who's who of the 1995 New York scene. While $50+ is a very steep price for any album, I'm sure it is available for sale and download for much less. I recommend this one to all hip hop fans.

      5 out of 5 stars UNDERGROUND GEM........2005-03-24

      CLASSIC.
      LYRICS ---------- 10/10
      PRODUCTION COURTESY OF LORD FINESSE -------- 10/10
      THEME ---------- 10/10
      ALBUM COVER -------- 9/10
      CONCEPT ---------- 10/10
      GUEST APPEARANCE -------- MY MAN O.C & KRS ONE.
      STAND OUT TRACKS -------- ALL TRACKS.
      OVERALL ----------- N.Y.C. CLASSIC.

      O.KAKA GOD'S GIFT TO DA UNDERGROUND.

      4 out of 5 stars Finesse definatly got the Game Plan and this is ACTUAL FACTS.......2004-05-14

      First things First
      The Awakening is one of the overall best Lp's ive ever listened to!!! the production is Finesse at his apex and the LYRICS well come on where talkin about the LORD FINESSE i cant get enough of Finesse's flow not only is he a rapper who rips it with battle enforced raps he drops true Knowledge about being an artist and the GIMMICKS that are used in the HipHop scene.
      There is one Problem for me on this album that is almost the same as the other reviewer's the lack of tracks and before i knew about the Game Plan/Actual Facts 12" original i could still be extremely happy with the tracks that were on the album!
      since im a giant DITC fan i coped the 12" and it has 2 unreleased tracks that im guessing were supose to be on The Awakening "SOUL PLAN and Underworld Operations" these track's I must say are well dammmmbbb I was happy to get that 12" with these 2 tracks on the album along with the critically aclaimed Down 4 the Underground would of made LP album in my opinion in the top 5 hiphop Lps of all time!!!
      without the knowledge of the 12" i woulda had a 5 star rating but after knowing about it and knowing how much more heat could have been on the Album knocks the Lp down to 4 but still a Rap Classic IF YOU DONT HAVE THIS ALBUM YOU DONT KNOW THE ESSENCE OF REAL HIPHOP
      OH YA AND Look Out for the ALL NEW FINESSE LP "THE UNDERBOSS" its been 8 Years since THE AWAKENING i can only Imagin what he has cookin up~!!!!!!!!

      5 out of 5 stars The Lord at his Best.......2004-04-08

      One can always argue about the optimal length of an album. With Lord Finesse at the top of his game as on this album, I prefered a 10 hour album... ;-) For those that didn't like this one, just listen to the Lord: "You better step to the next man, 'cause the greatest soccer player couldn't kick it like Finesse can"
      From the Crates to the Files: The Lost Sessions
      Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
      • "Lord Finesse is the brother that you have to hear..."
      • NOW LOOK HERE...
      • Not material to boost Lord Finesse's status
      • BOOM BAP HIP HOP
      		 From the Crates to the Files: The Lost Sessions
      Lord Finesse
      Manufacturer: Fatbeats
      ProductGroup: Music
      Binding: Audio CD

      GeneralGeneral | Soul | R&B | Styles | Music
      GeneralGeneral | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music
      Pop RapPop Rap | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music
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      5. The Awakening

      ASIN: B0000C0FBL
      Release Date: 2003-09-09

      Tracks:

      1. Intro
      2. Return Of The Funny Man (RMX)
      3. Isn't He Something
      4. Isn't He Something (Extra P Session Mix)
      5. Show'em How We Do Things
      6. Yes You May (RMX)
      7. You Know What I'm About (Original Version)
      8. You Know What I'm About
      9. Check Me Out Baby Pah
      10. S.K.I.T.S
      11. S.K.I.T.S (RMX)
      12. Check The Method
      13. Pull Ya Card
      14. Rules We Live By

      Customer Reviews:

      5 out of 5 stars "Lord Finesse is the brother that you have to hear...".......2005-08-24

      Who dares to say Lord Finesse isn't a great MC? Lord Finesse IS one of the true lyrical champions of the Boogie Down Bronx and well reknown as the "punch-line King". On any great MC list, Finesse's name will be there. From Melle-Mell to KRS ONE to Big Pun, Lord Finesse is well respected as one of the "King MC's of Pelan" (The Bronx). This CD is "classic" Lord Finesse. All it's missing is the original version of "BABY, YOU NASTY", and it would've been a wrap. This is true NYC Boom-Bap at it's best! A must have!

      5 out of 5 stars NOW LOOK HERE..........2004-12-06

      What are you saying??? Lord Finesse was never a great mc? I can only shake my head in disagreement, as will MANY others. Finesse is such a very unique mc, who can't be compared to others. Now...I haven't actually got THIS album, but, as many heads out there will know (and here it is for those who don't), this album is worth getting just for the tracks "you know what I'm about" and "Pull Ya Card" (who else is spitting lyrics like 'Ness on these cuts man?, and you say he was never a great mc? you must be on a drug or two!). These two songs are unmatched lyrically and beatwise. Great for the hard heads, they are absolute classics, and as far as I can recall they only got released on 12" vinyl. This is your chance to finally secure them if you didn't back in the day. If you haven't heard them yet or got them in your collection, do not miss out!!!

      3 out of 5 stars Not material to boost Lord Finesse's status.......2004-06-17

      I ordered this album expecting to hear some vintage DITC lyrics and rhymes bringing it back to the days of the second golden era, right? Wrong. Lord Finesse was never a great MC, he's dope on the boards though. I will never dispute that. This album high points come when the listener hears Big L voice once again on the tracks "Yes You May" and "You Know What I'm About". Only the latter four tracks of the album may you nod your head in agreement, as for everything else, you'll be shaking your head in dissapointment.

      5 out of 5 stars BOOM BAP HIP HOP.......2004-05-27

      Lost sessions lord finesse is a collection of straight New York's hip hop snares,horns & thumping beats.
      Rare & Unreleased
      Average customer rating: Not rated
        		Rare & Unreleased
        Lord Finesse
        Manufacturer: Underboss Entertainment
        ProductGroup: Music
        Binding: Audio CD

        East CoastEast Coast | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music
        Gangsta & HardcoreGangsta & Hardcore | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music
        GeneralGeneral | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music
        Pop RapPop Rap | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music
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        ASIN: B000HD0YEW
        Release Date: 2007-03-13

        Tracks:

        1. Intro
        2. Lords of Brooklyn "Lakes Of Fire"
        3. Pitch Black "Show And Prove"
        4. Ak Skills "Check The Flava"
        5. Tony Touch Freestyle"50 MCs Vol. 2"
        6. Interlude
        7. Ill Biskits "22 Years"
        8. Ill Biskits "Let 'Em Know"
        9. Ground Floor "Dig On That"
        10. Illegal "On The M.I.C."
        11. Shorty Long "Shortyz Doin His Own Thang"
        12. Lord Finesse "Do Your Thing Kid"
        13. Interlude
        14. Lord Finesse "The Message" (UNRELEASED Demo Version)
        15. Stephen Simmons "Alone."
        16. Twice "Come Home"
        17. Jeff Redd "Show You"
        18. Lord Finesse feat. Rell "Ghetto"
        19. Black Coffey "Sunshine"
        20. Interlude
        21. Bas Blasta feat. Godfather Don, Juju and Fat Joe "The Rhythm."
        22. Notorious B.I.G. "Party and Bulls&!t" Remix

        Product Description

        The Legendary M.C., Producer, and DJ, Lord Finesse, brings you his most sought after and hard to find productions and features. "Rare And Unreleased" is a must have for any Lord Finesse and true school enthusiast. 12" single-only cuts, unreleased songs, and original demo versions are all finally available in digital CD quality. Lord Finesse first debuted in 1989 with the classic, "The Funky Technician", on Wild Pitch. He went on to record "The Return Of The Funky Man" in 1992 and "Awakenings" in 1996. A living legend in the Hip-Hop underground. Lord Finesse is also known for discovering and mentoring the late great Big L. A founding member of the Hip-Hop super group, Diggin' In The Crates (DITC), Lord Finesse has contributed vocals and/or production to albums by group members: Show and A.G., Big L, Fat Joe, Diamond D, and O.C. He has contributed production to multi-platinum albums by The Notorious B.I.G. and Dr.Dre. and has also produced for artists such as Capone and Noreaga, Brand Nubian, Terror Squad, S.W.V., and Rell. An accomplished DJ, Lord Finesse frequently spins at parties throughout the United States, Japan, and Europe.

        Album Description

        The Legendary M.C., Producer, and DJ, Lord Finesse, brings you his most sought after and hard to find productions and features. Rare And Unreleased is a must have for any Lord Finesse and true school enthusiast. 12'' single-only cuts, unreleased songs, and original demo versions are all finally available in digital CD quality.
        DJ Finesse: The Best Of Musiq (Mixtape)
        Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
        • A Must-Have for all Musiq Lovers!
        		 DJ Finesse: The Best Of Musiq (Mixtape)
        Musiq Soulchild , and Angie Stone
        Manufacturer: DJ Finesse
        ProductGroup: Music
        Binding: Audio CD

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        5. Ain't Nothin' Like Me

        ASIN: B000MYEOO2

        Product Description

        Track Listing 1. Just Friends 2. For The Night 3. Buddy 4. Stop Playin 5. Newness 6. Miss You 7. Best Friend 8. How Do We Make Love feat. Angie Stone 9. Settle For My Love 10. One Night 11. Girl Next Door 12. Previous Cats 13. When I'm With You 14. Half Crazy (Album Version) 15. You & Me Against The World 16. Mary Go Round 17. Seventeen 18. 143 19. Love 20. Don't Change

        Customer Reviews:

        4 out of 5 stars A Must-Have for all Musiq Lovers!.......2007-07-09

        The disc was great. The only drawback is the 'DJ Finesse' in the background of the beginning of each song. Otherwise, I'd give the disc a FIVE star. It's not that noticeable though.

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