Avalanche

Track Listings

1. Skyline

2. Avalanche

3. Everybody's Seen The Moose But Me

4. There Will Be One

5. Mood's Mode

6. Expectations

7. Ocean

8. Weavers Of Wonder

Editorial Reviews
Richie Beirach
"Sonia Jacobsen is one of that rare breed of young musicians who has her own compositional and instrumental voice clearly established. I recommend her music to anyone with open ears interested in a fresh and passionate sound." -

Product Description
Composer and soprano saxophonist Sonia Jacobsen's debut CD as a leader.

Avalanche

Avalanche,Sonia Jacobsen

Avalanche

Tracks:

The Avalanche
Dear Mr. Supercomputer
Adlai Stevenson
The Vivian Girls Are Visited In the Night by Saint Dararius and his Squadron of Benevolent Butterflies
Chicago (Acoustic Version)
The Henney Buggy Band
Soul Bellow
Carlyle Lake
Springfield, or Bobby Got a Shadfly Caught in his Hair
The Mistress Witch from McClure (or, The Mind That Knows Itself)
Kaskadia River
Chicago (adult contemporary easy listening version)
Inaugural Pop Music for Jane Margaret Byrne
No Man's Land
The Palm Sunday Tornado Hits Crystal Lake
The Pick-up
The Perpetual Self, or "What Would Saul Alinsky Do?"
For Clyde Tombaugh
Chicago (Multiple Personality Disorder version)
Pittsfield
The Undivided Self (for Eppie and Popo)

Album Description

These are tracks not used on the "Illinois" album; some songs were finished, others weren't, requiring substantial editing, arrangements and/or vocals. The centerpiece of course, is the title track, "The Avalanche", a song intended for the leading role on "Illinois", but eventually cut and placed as a bonus track on the vinyl release. Almost every song on "Illinois" has a counterpart on this outtakes release. "In his own modest way, Stevens has quietly become the master of micro over six years and five albums; his ornately detailed compositions hold a magnifying glass to the dusty ephemera in his curious scope - and, intermittently, the center creases of his US atlas" - Entertainment Weekly.

Customer Reviews:

When's the last time "outtake" and "extra" led to "wow".......2007-06-19

Being a huge fan of Sufjan's Illinoise release, I expected to find a gem or 2 on this out-take cd. I am completely surprised, as it is not just a collection of material that "didn't" make it - Hearing this cd explains exactly why the first version had 22 tracks. There is just not enough space on one cd for the creativity inside this musician. This is not a lone cd for the obsessed fan, but truly another example of his amazing work.

Great songwriting, but it's a bit overwhelming. Kinda like an avalanche...........2007-03-06

I look at it this way. If you still haven't heard of Sufjan Stevens, you've probably spent the past 18 months or so hiding under some musical rock somewhere. And that can be understandable to some extent - everyone does have their own musical tastes, preferences, likes, and dislikes, all of which can confine the average music listener to only being exposed to quite a narrow slice of the musical spectrum. However, I would like to assume that most of the people who would potentially be reading my written/typed words have heard of Mr. Stevens and his multi-state recording project, not to mention his traveling folk orchestra (the Illinois-makers). Thus, I will proceed henceforth under the impression that you have some inkling of this man and his offbeat, yet defined musical style.

Wow... Simply wow. This album represents quite an ambitious musical undertaking, one that few artists would ever dream of undertaking, and I'm not even talking about the 50 States Project. In its most rudimentary form, many people have released CD's full of B-sides, out-takes, rejected tracks, and other assorted songs that didn't quite fit on any other released album. Thus, in and of itself, Avalanche isn't really that revolutionary - many groups throughout music history (whether they themselves or greedy record executives) have created something of this nature and they're usually released to mixed reviews (i.e. Led Zeppelin's Coda). Big deal, right? Aren't most of albums of this nature just a vain attempt by bands to milk their loyal fan bases for extra money (i.e. Pearl Jam's series of live concert releases from their US and European tours a few years back)?

However, where this album stands up and makes people take notice is that Mr. Stevens went back into his journals and pages of scribbling from the recording sessions for Illinois, found all of these songs, finished writing them, cleaned up whatever rough studio version might have exited, and compiled yet another CD (nearly 80 minutes worth) for his listeners. The aspiring, wannabe, wish-I-could-be songwriter living inside of me is excited to listen to these songs, as many of them are truly works in progress. Here is a writer/artist/sings who's willing to open up to his listening audience and declare, "Hey! Here are some broken fragments of songs, some not-so-good songs, and some could-have-been songs! I'm not afraid to release a CD that's not picture-perfect!" When I first heard of the release of this album I was quite excited, because the makeup of these songs and how they were collected was really compelling to me.

But then, the more I listened to the album and gained a decent glimpse into the content of this album and what it represented, my cynical side began to expose itself. I fight my cynicism rather often, as it can be difficult to repress, but it comes to the fore when I think about this album. I enjoy it; in fact, I really enjoy it, but this album screams out, "Over-Indulgence!" And I don't like thinking of artists of various descriptions, whose work I regularly enjoy, as crassly commercial beings, out to make a quick buck with their creativity. But, if you've ever heard any of the programming on any radio station owned by Clear Channel (or other large media conglomerate), you'd know that people sell out and do so often and regularly.

Please don't misunderstand me here - I am not accusing Sufjan of exploiting the ears and wallets of hipsters across the nation by cashing in on the well-deserved acclaim of Illinois. Far from it actually - I think that there are many portions of The Avalanche that are excellent. To be honest (and a fawning fan), I could listen to every single variation (both studio, live, or otherwise) of "Chicago" that Sufjan could ever release. When traveling and performing, he takes pains to recreate and reformulate "Chicago" on a regular basis; he is simply not content to let the song stay as it is, and such an idealistic approach to making music makes me really happy. And just like on Illinois, the "Name" songs on The Avalanche (as in, the songs referring to specifically to people, whether real or fictional) are standout tracks, filled with quality lyrics and his best compositions. I mean, who else would actually write songs entitled "Adlai Stevenson" and "Saul Bellow"? I am in no way denying this guy's talent - Mr. Stevens is a great songwriter, one of the most talented that any genre or subgenre has heard in years.

But, in the long run, I think my problem with this album is that Sufjan is running the risk of watering himself down. A songwriter can simply release too many albums, too many tracks, too many concepts, and too many ideas, and, in the process of doing so, can potentially diminish his or her impact upon music history. Accordingly, there's just too much here, as in, I feel overwhelmed by the sheer length, depth, and breadth of this album, and it's only a collection of B-sides. Sufjan would have done well to engage in a bit of the same self-editing he employed when casting these songs off Illinois in the first place.

I wholeheartedly concur with the idea a great friend of mine had when he reflected upon the entirety of the record - I would have preferred to purchase this album as a succession of 3 or so EP's. Yes, that means I probably would have spent more money, but I would have found much more enjoyment from the collective purchase. Each EP would have included one or two different versions of "Chicago" and, from there, the songs would be collected thematically - "Name" songs, "Place" songs, and then other assorted bits and pieces of things. I would have been really excited about that. I would have been able to decide which version I wanted to enjoy and not feel bad about skipping across songs that I really don't want to hear, because I don't like skipping around - I'm a fan of listening to an album in its entirety, the way that the artist made it to be.

So, if ever I get into a conversation with Mr. Stevens, I think what I'd tell him would go something like this - "Hey! Sufjan! Great work on The Avalanche! Next time though, do a better job with track selection. I want to hear your best work, and not just your `Eh, this is OK' kinda stuff. I'd appreciate it."

just buy it.......2007-01-16

I'm a little unhip to the zeitgeist, being a mostly stay-at-home mom, infrequent (lapsed) family physician, and perpetual community nuisance. Until today, I was blissfully unaware of the critical acclaim for "Illinoise." However, I listened to it incessantly after my husband brought it home, and wound up with a copy of "The Avalanche" for Christmas.

That being said, I put on the title track of "The Avalanche," on Christmas Day, and was blown away by the beauty and complexity of its opening. This album has entered the pantheon of those I listened to daily for weeks or even months after their discovery, which puts it in the league of Emmylou Harris's "Angel Band," the first "Trio" album (featuring Emmylou Harris, Linda Ronstadt, and Dolly Parton), the Dixie Chicks' "Home," Billy Bragg's and Wilco's "Mermaid Avenue," Bob Dylan's "Good As I Been to You," and the "O Brother, Where Art Thou?" soundtrack, which is pretty serious company.

Moreover, I cannot say enough about "Springfield, or Bobby Got a Shadfly Caught in His Hair." This tune, with its rich harmonies, stands up against the greatest CSNY songs.

I enjoy the three alternate takes of "Chicago;" as a jazz fan, I'm accustomed to hearing different versions of the same song back-to-back on archival recordings. But I'm aware that the casual listener may find this sort of thing perplexing.

I take exception to the notion that Sufjan Stevens revels in the sameness of his sound: I think that criticism could be directed against Lennon and McCartney, Brian Eno, k.d. lang, Lyle Lovett, Elvis (Costello or Presley), Ray Charles, or any of the above mentioned artists. I would not have it any other way.

Hardly "Outtakes & Extras"!.......2006-11-03

This guy is a freak of nature! Different but in the same vein as Illinoise. I loved it..No fillers to speak of. If you liked some of the more laid back songs on Illinoise!, you'll LOVE this album. Its great regardless.
Highlights are:
Avalanche
Adlai Stevenson
Saul Bellow
The Mistress Witch From McClure
Springfiel, Or Bobby Got A Shadfly Caught In His Hair
No Man's Land
The Perpetual Self, Or "What Would Saul Alinsky Do?

SN

Surprisingly excellent.......2006-09-07

I probably shouldn't say "surpringly" excellent we are after all talking about Sufjan, but when this was released I was hesitant to buy it because I thought of a B-sides and outtakes album as not up to par with regular releases. I thought that if this didn't make the album then it must not be as good, that's pretty much the case with most other artists. Artists other than Sufjan. This album is really amazing and is absolutely level with his other releases. It should be looked at as an album and not a collection of outtakes . I highly recommend this to all Sufjan fans especially those who love "Illinoise"

Average customer rating:

fantastic...
avalanche
Same 'o' same 'o'
Bliss For The Ears & The Soul
Another glowing endorsement

Avalanche
Matthew Good
Manufacturer: Umvd Import
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Release Date: 2003-03-17

Tracks:

Pledge Of Allegiance
Lullaby For The New World Order
Weapon
In A World Called Catastrophe
Avalanche
2lst Century Living
While We Were Hunting Rabbits
Bright End Of Nowhere
Near Fantastica
Song For The Girl
Double Life
A Long Way Down
House Of Smoke & Mirrors

Album Description

2003 solo album debut for the Canadian singer/songwriter, his first since the dissolution of the Matthew Good Band. 13 tracks.

Album Details

Canada's King of Angst-pop First Post-matthew Good Band Solo Project. Says Matthew,"When I Set Out to Write this Record I Promised Myself that If I was Going to Continue Making Records I Would Do it to Satisfy the Desire Within Myself to Discover Something that I Hadn't Yet. As a Writer, as a Person, etc. So as I Wrote the Record I Confronted a Lot of Aspects of Making Music that I Had Never Allowed Myself to Before. And in the End I Really Found Myself Writing Short Soundtracks to Various Thoughts and Realizations Rather Than Proper Songs.

Customer Reviews:

fantastic..........2006-05-09

This album is absolutely amazing.
It's honestly like nothing I've ever heard before. The first time I listened to it I wasn't sure what to expect but I was not let down. His voice brings the exceptional touch to each song. Favourites include: In a world called catastrophe (it feels as if this song is never going to end... but who said that was a bad thing??), avalanche (the audio effects on the vocals are haunting.. the music is magnificent), 21st century living (short and sweet), while we were hunting rabbits (interesting title but great song. Possibly, in my opinion, the best song on the album. the last few lines are... wow), bright end of nowhere (the simple piano makes this a fave), near fantastica, song for the girl (how could you not LOVE this song? it's perfect) and house of smoke and mirrors (the acoustic guitar is... simply perfect) This album is fantastic, lyrically, musically and vocally.
If you will only buy one cd this year... for the love of God, make sure it's this one!!

avalanche.......2005-09-06

this cd begins with a roar, some of the best rock of the last decade, but sadly it fades into mediocre.

Same 'o' same 'o'.......2005-09-04

Right this album seems to be one continous song dragged over many tracks, his constant struggle to express his feelings is dragging his music backwards not forward. Listen to something good like John Legend.

Bliss For The Ears & The Soul.......2005-09-01

I'm in Australia and only discovered Matthew Good fairly recently, thanks to a Canadian friend who told me to give him a try. That was the best peice of advice I've had in a long time. I have shed tears of pure joy over this masterpeice of music. It is nothing short of perfect. I want to thank him and thank him again, for the pleasure his music has brought into my life. Finally, here is something in the world of music to be excited about

Another glowing endorsement.......2005-07-05

I'll keep the repitition short. It's a great album. If like John Mayer, you'll love Matthew Good. Nothing against Mayer, but I don't understand how Mayer can get so much more airtime and publicity.

This album has depth, range and soul. The last time I heard a male singer/songwriter of this caliber was Billy Joel.

Average customer rating:

Good female voice
STYLISH 'LEFT OF CENTRE' FOLK-ROCK MUSIC
Absolutely Brilliant
Brilliant...simply brilliant
A rare gem

Avalanche
Thea Gilmore
Manufacturer: Compass Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Tracks:

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God Knows
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Customer Reviews:

Good female voice.......2007-04-11

One of my recent pleasant discoveries - the lady has voice and drive. This one doesnt need MTV videos to cover lack of talent.Decent professional job.

STYLISH 'LEFT OF CENTRE' FOLK-ROCK MUSIC.......2007-01-19

My musical roots are buried in the american 'west coast' and the british 'folk rock' sounds of the early 70's, so I thought I'd give TG a try. The UK music press have been 'waxing lyrical' about her for a while now so, given my tastes, it seemed likely that her music would, at least, be worth a listen. I chose 'Avalanche' simply because it had been her most successful album in the UK (I think now, it has been overtaken by her recent release, 'Harpo's Ghost'); I was not disappointed.

The voice - sometimes sultry, sometimes poignant, always expressive (with hints of Chrissie Hynde, Joni Mitchell and Sandy Denny). The music - sharp lyrics and fine melodies, an 'edgy' pop-rock sound with a strong 'urban folk' influence.; skilful, modern production/arrangements and highly accomplished instrumental accompaniment. Favourite tracks ? I liked them all - from the upbeat 'rockers' through the mid-tempo lilting melodies to the slower ethereal sounding songs.

I thought this album was so good that, shortly afterwards, I bought 'Harpo's Ghost' (unheard). 5-stars, no question.

Absolutely Brilliant.......2006-03-25

Thea Gilmore is a master orator in the language of music. I have seen it said many times in comparison to the likes of Dylan that 'she is on her way' but truth be told she is already there and the only thing any other master has on her is a discography covering a larger time span. In fact she is so prolific that it cannot be said that many have more compositions under their belt.

While she has touched on harder rock, blues, and hints of country and pop with apparent ease in the course of her career she is folk at the core and I think anyone buying this album, or her others for that matter, should be aware of that fact just so they know what they're in for. If that's your style or you're open to it then you will fall hard for her music. And what was one of the things everyone loved about Dillon and other folk legends? It was the oft simplicity that allowed those with a hankering to pick up a guitar and play along. This is quite true of Thea's music as well.

Lyrically she is a poetic genius spewing forth verse such as:

"The suns in my eyes
Between
The smoke trails of aircraft
The kite tails and light shafts
There's a language in the sky
...
There's a rumour
Dirty as a chimney stack
Quiet as roadkill"

And that's just the tip of a massive Gilmore iceberg with plenty more reaching deep beneath the surface.

Melodically she is equally as talented and this will become evident as you find yourself humming her songs long after you last heard them. And not in a "damn I can't get that cursed song out of my head" way but rather in a way that will draw you back to your stereo/iPod/whatever for visit after visit.

So here is a very young woman who has already written more good music than many aged veterans, is prolific as the dickens, is maddeningly brilliant and witty, and here you have one of her finest collections. Don't just stop here though, I highly recommend all of her works.

On a final note I agree with the comment about her voice and covers. She does have a nice voice and she can definitely sing but relative to her song writing it's not her key feature.

Can't wait for more Thea. If you write it, I will buy it.

Brilliant...simply brilliant.......2004-04-29

God, hearing something as sophisticated, well-crafted, edgy and laden with melody -- as this album -- makes you realize what a sad and tawdry state the world of pop music is in. Not to say this is "pop," but it treads, wonderfully, beyond categories -- without losing a sort of pop sensibility (the modern production and arrangements). But all of that would be for naught if the songwriting and performance were weak, and Avalanche is ANYTHING but. I discovered Gilmore on a recent NPR Weekend Edition -- what a great revelation. Do not pass this album by -- in fact BUY it.

A rare gem.......2004-04-01

In a perfect world, Britney Spears and all the other pop queens would be flipping burgers at McDonalds and Thea Gilmore would be one of the reigning Goddeses of the music world. In a perfect world, major record company A and R people would not be suffering from terminal cases of rectocranial inversion and would instead be pushing an artist as talented as Thea Gilmore to the top of the charts.
If you are dedicated to finding the rare gems in the music world, THIS is one of the artists for whom you are constantly searching. My only hope is that she isn't left in the dust of the mainstream effluvium born of greed and lacking the appreciation for great talent.
Both Avalanche and Rules for Jokers are outstanding works which should be included in any serious audiophiles collection. From this point on, if Thea Gilmore records and releases it, I'm buying it with no questions asked.

Average customer rating:

One of the best releases of 2005
An Amazing Album
Deceivingly inventive
What's Interesting about This?
amazing....emo/punk

I Am the Avalanche
I Am the Avalanche
Manufacturer: Drive Thru
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Tracks:

DEAD AND GONE
NEW DISASTER
MURDEROUS
GREEN EYES
WASTED
THIS IS DUNGEON MUSIC
SYMPHONY
EMERGENCY
CLEAN UP
MY SECOND RESTRAINING ORDER

Album Description

I AM THE AVALANCHE released their full-length debut September 27, 2005 on Drive-Thru Records. Produced by Barrett Jones (Foo Fighters, Melvins) the self-titled album resonates with Vinnie Caruana's sometimes dark, but always clever lyrical musings accompanied by heavy, intoxicating guitars and drums. Caruana (former front-man of The Movielife) and crew rock and awe on tracks like "Dead And Gone" which plays like a musical investigation into the disappearance of love and the bloody and pulverizing "I Took A Beating" that humorously reflects on two really bad years. I AM THE AVALANCHE was selected as one of Alternative Press' 100 Bands You Need To Know In 2005.

Customer Reviews:

One of the best releases of 2005.......2007-04-16

When The Movielife split, many adoring fans found themselves confused and bemused as to why one of the most under-rated acts on Drive Thru Records had gone and done something as silly as split. The thought even probably ran through front man Vinnie Caruana's mind too as he found himself working construction in Crown Heights, Brooklyn, two days after he'd been playing in front of 3000 kids.

Luckily for us both, Caruanas passion for music was long from dead. In fact, it simply needed a short hiatus from band life in order for him to truly realize he belongs on stage being arguably the best front man in pop-punk. When he finally decided to play again, he had plenty of material from which to draw and the end product was I Am The Avalanche, both the band itself, and their first debut album.

"Dead and Gone", the opening track a live favorite is a melodious ode to an old girlfriend of Caruana's, although thoughts of closure with the Movielife can't help but be considered. Catchy and gritty, undoubtedly a song full of both regret, and anger, but focusing on the future at the same time.

"Green Eyes" opens with quite a bizarre set of lyrics and gradually builds into a questionable musical assault on an ex girlfriend. "I knew she was from the West Coast, or the best coast as she said" - it's hardly Shakespeare, but this little sonnet has just as much charm.

Following that quite odd song, "I Took A Beating" should attract any Movielife fan. Loud, proud, heavy and ripened, this song tells the story of Caruana's 2003Undoubtedly one of the best tracks on the album.

"Symphony", another outstanding song yet again revolves around a simple yet catchy bass line. It's beefy, it's meaningful, and most importantly, it almost signifies what IATA are together as a band. A mix up of several different elements, coming together to make better than good.

"My Second Restraining Order", the last track closes the album perfectly, drawing influence without a doubt from every single other track on the CD, and probably most of what The Movielife did, its almost an ode to IATA, and a cliff-hanger of an ending. It leaves you wanting more, and if Caruana is anything to go by, more is what you'll be getting.

All in all, a brilliant debut, matured by Caruana's experiences. Combining the heavy with the melodious, and with the lyrical genius being the biggest compliment the utterly great songs could get, this album is worth fifty of it's weight in gold.

An Amazing Album.......2006-07-12

Sorry I couldn't think of anything cute for a headline - but that's what I really think I am the Avalanche's self titled - AMAZING!

I am the Queen of Exageration though, so you may want to check it out for yourself :)

I was a hater at first. I had been hoping for a Movielife reunion but when the members started joining new bands I started to face the facts. They were done. So I listened to the new bands. Nightmare of You. WOW. Awful. Sorry Brandon and all his loyal followers but if I wanted to listen to the Smiths - I would.

Then came June 2005. I had been keeping up with what Vinnie was doing on MySpace but wasn't really sure if he was touring or what. SO I go to see Head Automatica and who's opening!? None other than IATA. Very excited.

Not so much when they came out as a disaster (no pun intended) - again it could have been that I tryed not to listen. Again saw them at Warped 2005, and a little intoxicated, I may have screamed out some Movielife songs for requests. Still I was a hater.

Then this album came out and blew it all out of the water. My roomate got it and I would stick my tongue out whenever she played it. But after a few hundred listens I came to understand that this is one of the best albums that has come out in the past year!

There has been some doosies (from the label that signed the Movielife and ultimately IATA - Drive Thru) but I am really proud to say that this album stuck out in the midst of a bunch of really medicore and passion-less albums.

I listen to this album and as much I don't want to compare it to the movielife I have to for just a second. I listen to Vinnie's voice and remember the passion he (and I) had for the movielife.

I Am The Avalanche experiments with alot of different riffs and music types for this album and it's one reason why it's so electic. I listen to Murderous and I feel a little Sublime/Incubus feeling and then I listen to "I Took A Beating" and feel like I'm seeing a hardcore show.

The album slows past number 10 in my opinion (but don't most albums)and it's also where the lyrics fail (listen to "Emergency" and you'll know what I mean).

I fought with giving this album 4 stars - but it deserves 5 for sure. Even if the lyrics get questionable :)

Deceivingly inventive.......2006-02-09

So yes, I did like the Movielife, but I was not a huge fan because I felt like it was too similar to what I had already heard countless times before. What did intrigue me, though, was Vinnie Caruana's intense voice, a barrage of emotion and anger that deflected any of the "emo" labels that people love to pin on bands nowadays. The first time through Avalanche's self-titled, I couldn't help but sing along to Vinnie's driving melodies, but after a few more listens, I realized that he wasn't the only person in the band. The guitars pound away with the sort of rolling intensity that with Vinnie's voice, seem just at home. The drummer is not one to overlook either, with solid non-showoffy rhythms that aren't just lifted from your everyday pop punk band. Standouts for me are:

1)Green Eyes
2)Clean Up
3)Always
4)This Is Dungeon Music

This album is always what I play when I can't decide what else to listen to. Definitely pick it up because you won't be disappointed.

What's Interesting about This?.......2006-02-01

I should know better by now. Seeing I Am the Avalanche's moniker and the thrill of self-disintegration it promises, I long for a reapproach to that feeling that other bands labelled emo create: the William Burroughs stream-of-consciousness of At the Drive-In, the intellectual gutter-punk of Fugazi, the dizzying cacophonies of Radiohead. I hope against hope that a record label thought to specialize in the next wave of alternative music can offer anything slightly interesting. The drive-thru label, like usual, doesn't come through.

Because nothing is more predictable and safe than this avalanche: the same slow-fast "dynamics" that should have been laid to rest with Kurt Cobain, the archetypal "dead girlfriend" song that more or less dropped off the cliff after Axl Rose got a pop hit out of it (though Kurt did well with the theme in "Polly"-but he's Kurt and noone else is!), the melding of styles that wants to be adventurous but only ends up turgid (mixing slow skank, locker-room chants, and the same old distorted three-chord tune in "Murderous").

There are the same old flip lyrics taken from the playbook of like-minded bands such as Blink 182 and A Simple Plan, lyrics that mimic the sturm und drang of the singer's life, seemingly calculated to align he and his bandmates with some rioutous tradition. Different associations altogether come to mind when I listen to him:
I'm ready for the next train wreck.
A new disaster,
`cause I'm getting good
at falling down
and playing dead.
He then goes on to catalogue a list of other disasters in the whiny voice that the "emo singer" is supposed to have, while the guitars slash melodically along. Yes, there is a wreck going on here, but it is a lumbering one, not the kind that comes from musical anarchy. I'm learning now that I'll find more authentic hardcore attitude by listening to Anton Webern, Thelonious Monk, or Nancy Sinatra than by giving the newest emo simulation a chance.

amazing....emo/punk.......2005-12-19

i listen to alot of emo/punk and these guys stand out, Vinnie writes amazing emotional songs like on I Took A Beating. Creative but originial mixed in. What can i said about it, just get it!

Average customer rating:

last of the originals: not great, not worse either
Past their peak ...
Mountain Peak
"Satisfaction," indeed

Avalanche
Mountain
Manufacturer: Collectables
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Thumbsucker
You Better Believe It
I Love To See You Fly
Back Where I Belong
Last Of The Sunshine Days

Album Description

Coming on the heels of their live 'Twin Peaks', this release features more of a guitar-oriented sound than previous releases. Highlights include their covers of Jerry Lee Lewis' 'Whole Lotta Shakin' Goin' On' and the Stones' 'Satisfaction'. Collectables.

Customer Reviews:

last of the originals: not great, not worse either.......2007-02-25

Having already released some of the finest albums of the seventies (like Climbing, Nantucket Sleighride and the half studio/half live Flowers of Evil, also including the earlier Leslie West solo-effort "Mountain" on which Felix Pappalardi is everpresent as bassplayer, songwriter and producer) the band split up for a short while. They had some kind of comebackshows in Japan, on which only West and Pappalardi were the bands nucleus, with other musicians filling in on drums and keyboards (as witnessed on the live "Twin Peaks") and disbanded again. Shortly after they teamed up with original banddrummer Corky Laing (plus David Perry on guitar instead of longtime cohort Steve Knight on keyboards) to record "Avalanche" and this is a somewhat different affair. Unfortunately it cannnot be matched against one of the albums before but it stands firmly on its own and has certainly a Mountainous flavor. I am not particulary charmed by covers (of wellknown songs) in general and those 2 on this album seem not to fit in either, were not necessary, given the songwriting talents of West, Pappalardi and his wife Collins. Those songs are not bad but could easyly have been replaced by own compositions, as the bulk of the rest shows. There is plenty of good songmaterial, well played, with strong guitarwork and vocals, courtesy of West. Pappalardi contributes bassguitar and backingvocals, also in a peticulair track "Sister Justice" piano and even mellotron, elsewhere keyboards. The role of Perry is unclear, with a guitarplayer like West aboard I am afraid he did not get room enough to shine. West wrote and played one song solo "Alisan" with acoustic guitar. The album containes some good songs, some straight rockers, overall it is not a bad album but the band has proved they could do far more better than this. Sadly it was also the final end for the band and as such its swansong (though not the one on "Flowers of Evil".

Past their peak ..........2004-12-07

When I picked up this "new release" up in '74, I couldn't have been a bigger fan of Mountain. Imagine my excitement as I stared at the album cover, with it's promise of big, big things ... Leslie flailing away on his axe, Felix at his side, Corky no doubt pounding away in the background. It couldn't miss! Imagine, then, my dismay and confusion as I plowed through track after track. All the elements were there, but the magic was missing. Huh?
Time gives one perspective. We all know that Mountain went through the familiar arc of rock band rise/success/burnout, with its requisite chemical abuse, ego imbalances, legal/contract hassles, touring fatigue, and general ennui after riding too high for an extended period of time. This band was no exception. AVALANCHE documents a band in the beginning of a death spiral. Sure, there would be more "product" from them under this moniker, with or without any of the original members. But that delicate balance of savagery and poetry that was Leslie and Felix' relationship had soured. After Climbing the Mountain, they tasted too much of the Flowers of Evil ... the Nantucket Sleighride was over.

Mountain Peak.......2003-03-14

In my opinion this overlooked work is the best mountain album.
mountain climbing though showing signs of greatness is still inconsistent. nantucket sleighride was a missed shot (the band dont sound like themselves!). flowers of evil is again a mixed bag. but with avalanche the band finally finds its stride. this is the complete finished product - simply put : their creative peak.

"Sister Justice", "Thumbsucker", "Swamp Boy", "You better believe it" - they're all stand out tracks. plus you got "Whole lotta shakin goin on" and "Satisfaction". leslie west is at his artistic best here. if you like guitar oriented blues rock it does not get any better than this!

actually other than this album, just get the "best of mountain" single disk (which btw has the best of the other mountain albums) - that's pretty much all you need of mountain.

"Satisfaction," indeed.......2002-04-11

Who would think that anybody's cover of the Stones' "Satisfaction" would be worth listening to? Well, Mountain's is the best track on this underrated album. Leslie West's harsh bark of a vocal has never sounded better delivering the lines you know so well. But more importantly, the band slows the song down and makes it sound like a tough Southern rock track. This album is worth getting for "Satisfaction" alone, but other songs like "You Better Believe It," "Back Where I Belong," "Sister Justice," and "Swamp Boy" are entertaining too.

Average customer rating:

The Early November/I Am the Avalanche
The Early November , and I Am the Avalanche
Manufacturer: Drive Thru
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B000A2H5V0
Release Date: 2005-07-26

Tracks:

Outside [Demo Version] - The Early November
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Average customer rating:

Always There & in Rock
Rose of Avalanche
Manufacturer: Navarre Corporation/
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD
ASIN: B000008K7Q
Release Date: 1990-09-28

Average customer rating:

Great Celtic folk rock
Timeless and Magical
A Rafferty classic!!
Rafferty's best work since 1978, perhaps ever

North & South
Gerry Rafferty
Manufacturer: Avalanche Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B0000012FG
Release Date: 1995-04-28

Tracks:

North And South
Moonlight And Gold
Tired Of Talking
Hearts Run Dry
A Dangerous Age
Shipyard Town
Winter's Come
Nothing Ever Happens Down Here
On A Night Like This
Unselfish Love

Customer Reviews:

Great Celtic folk rock.......2004-02-21

I bought this album on tape in 1988 and remember how the sound blew me away. I was familiar with Gerry Rafferty through his classic '70s song Baker Street, but was quite ignorant of his other works. Then they started playing Shipyard Town on the radio while I was at college and I thought "Wow!"
The whole album is strong, with a blend of rocking numbers and gentle ballads. In fact, Rafferty seems to be predictable alternating the more upbeat songs with ballads, but I like it just fine. In all, there are six faster songs and four ballads. My favorite track is the wistful Moonlight and Gold. Actually, I'm drawn to all the ballads - Hearts Run Dry, Winter's Come and On a Night Like This. But Shipyard Town is as powerful as it ever was, an epic, soaring blend of Celtic rock with Rafferty's unique voice sailing over it.
This album made me go back and listen to Rafferty's album from my sister's generation, City to City, to find if North and South wasn't a fluke. I was very pleased with the songs on City to City as well, especially The Ark and title track.

Timeless and Magical.......2000-01-04

I puchased this CD when it was released in the late 1980's, and fell in love with it immediately. Today, it has lost none of its appeal. I have tried some of Rafferty's other material with little success. I wonder if this was the session where he got everything right?

Most of the songs are incredibly beautiful and melodic; even the few rockers having memorable and tuneful arrangements. Gerry's voice is a gift to the ear, and his backing band complements him perfectly. The lyrics frequently tell of heartbreak and love gone stale, adding to the haunting timelessness of the album.

If I had to pick 10 CD's from the last 20 years for my desert island, this would be one of them.

A Rafferty classic!!.......1999-10-31

this is definitely Gerry's best since "City to City", his immensly popular album w/"Baker Street", the song everyone knows. I would agree it's very polished, fun pop. Some songs are on the modern country/rock fringe to the likes of Shania Twian, etc. The title track is one of those songs that goes great with driving down the highway on a warm night with the windows down. Best tracks in my opinion are "North and South", "Moonlight and Gold", and "A Dangerous Age". If you're looking for something of Gerry's other than "City to City", try this one...

Rafferty's best work since 1978, perhaps ever.......1998-10-21

Truly one of Rafferty's finest works, and certainly his most polished. Every track works, and he given the album a distinctive sound by giving in to his Scottish roots. Fans who were won over by City to City will want to hear this as well.

Cliffhangers! Music From The Classic Republic Serials

Average customer rating:

cliffhangers!music from the classic republic serials
This collection far exceeded my expectations.
Excellent, thrilling, action-packed, chilling

Cliffhangers! Music From The Classic Republic Serials

Manufacturer: Varese Sarabande
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Movie Scores | Soundtracks | Styles | Music

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ASIN: B0000014XI
Release Date: 1996-03-12

Tracks:

Perils Of Nyoka: Young Emblem-Republic Logo
Perils Of Nyoka: Arabian Intrigue
Perils Of Nyoka: Desert Intrigue
Adventures Of Captain Mavel: Tal Chotali
Dick Tracy's G-Men: Satanic Fury
Zorro's Fighting Legion: Sub Surface Action
Zorro's Fighting Legion: Sword Play
The Fighting Devil Dogs: Dale Kidnapped
The Fighting Devil Dogs: Storm And Falling Trees
The Fighting Devil Dogs: In Deep Despair
The Fighting Devil Dogs: Devil Dogs Hurry In D Minor
King Of The Royal Mounted: Main Titled/Chapter Card/Technical Credits
King Of The Royal Mounted: Maple Leaf Forever
King Of The Royal Mounted: Mounties Get Their Man
King Of The Royal Mounted: Doc's Explination (Chase & Snow Avalanche)
King Of The Royal Mounted: Mounted Fury
King Of The Royal Mounted: Renegade Trail
King Of The Royal Mounted: After The Man
King Of The Royal Mounted: Linda
King Of The Royal Mounted: Get Your Man
Daredevils Of The Red Cicle: Main Title
Daredevils Of The Red Cicle: On The Run
Mysterious Dr. Satan: Car Transfer
Hawk Of The Wilderness: Miller's Folly
Drums Of Fu Manchu: Perilous Task
Adventures Of Red Rider: Main Title
Adventures Of Red Rider: Adventures Of Red Rider Chapter Card
Adventures Of Red Rider: Malicious Purpose
Adventures Of Red Rider: Little Beaver
Adventures Of Red Rider: Horse Chase
Adventures Of Red Rider: Ace Hanlon
Adventures Of Red Rider: Little Beaver (Part 2)
Adventures Of Red Rider: Oh, Susanna Chase
Adventures Of Red Rider: At The Brink
Adventures Of Red Rider: Adventures Of Red Ryder Tech Credits

Customer Reviews:

cliffhangers!music from the classic republic serials.......2002-03-20

Great album!
I just sat back,closed my eyes,and relived great memories of these great serials that I saw as a kid.The music is so accurate
that it could have been lifted from the films instead of re-creations.I reccomend it highly!

This collection far exceeded my expectations........1999-10-18

I've been a huge fan of Republic Pictures serials for many years and was thrilled to discover this collection. James King and the CinemaSound Orchestra have captured the pulse pounding tempo of those classic Republic Serials perfectly!!! The music brought back fond memories of watching Commando Cody (The Rocket-Man), the Masked Marvel and all the rest. If you are a Republic Serial fan or just love great motion picture music, this CD is a must have for your collection.

Excellent, thrilling, action-packed, chilling.......1999-04-11

As loyal, dedicated fans of Republic Serials, we found this soundtrack to be one of a kind. When you listen to this, you will return to those thrilling days of yesteryear at the Saturday matinee, when our heros were threatened by Zardoz, the Crimson Ghost, Dr. Satan and 39013, and couldn't wait for Dick Tracy to arrive on the scene.

Average customer rating:

A lush synthpop gem
Uninspired and forgettable
A hidden synth pop gem
NEW new wave!
A fantastic debut!

Avalanche
Synthesist I
Manufacturer: Satellite Symphonics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Tracks:

Red Clouds
Lost Parade
Images
Captain, My Captain
, Aerial Dreams
Paralyzed
Hiding
Glides On
Another World
Mad Connection
Avalanche

Album Description

While listening to any of the songs on Avalanche, the debut release by I, Synthesist(a.k.a)composer/producer Chris Ianuzzi on his own Satellite Symphonics label) it quickly becomes evident that what you're hearing is indeed a coherent whole. This genre-transcending sound is not a fortunate accident, nor is it the result of slick, expensive studio production, but rather the synthesis of years of musical influence and experience for an artist whose talent and creativity enable him to listen to the past and hear the future.

And what of the influences? You'll hear traces of the pioneers here: Gary Numan, Kraftwerk, Fad Gadget, Ultravox. But the most exciting compound in this joyous chemistry may be the hint of bowie-esque rock sound, even reaching into territory covered by innovative musicians like Bjork.

There's a hit song here, and you'll know it when you hear it. There are remix-ready tracks poised to explode on international dance floors. There are words; Ianuzzi's command of the medium gives life and sound to the twitchy introspection that hovers behind post-millennial shoulders. And there's a lot more where that came from; proof that Chris Ianuzzi knows what he's doing-he knows he's going to keep Synthesizing-which, really, is what music and culture are all about.

Customer Reviews:

A lush synthpop gem.......2005-09-16

Chris Ianuzzi's solo debut recalls many turn-of-the'-80s influences, but not the ones that have been done to death these last few years. Instead of dry, primitivist electro, he's created polished, cerebral singer/songwriter synthpop a la Thomas Dolby. His gritty voice -- edged with the rasp of Peter Gabriel and the wail of David Byrne -- guides you through the dense, burbling production, telling stories of sci-fi romance and danger.

Uninspired and forgettable.......2004-11-03

This was a speculative purchase due to the editorial references to Numan, Kraftwerk and Ultravox. I have everything that Numan has ever released and about 90% of Kraftwerk's and Ultravox's output too. I didn't hear a trace of anything resembling those artist's creativity (I mean how can you imitate Numan? ;-) I'd say this piece of work sounds most like what John Foxx has been doing for the last few years, but without as much daring or melody. When I listen to something new I like to hear something which makes me want to hear a key track or two again and again. For me there are no key tracks and the whole album blurs into a wash of below par synth-pop. I bought Automatic by I Satellite some time ago and thought I'd like this too. I didn't.

A hidden synth pop gem.......2004-09-19

I just saw "I, Synthesist" last night with "The Cruxshadows" at a local venue. Prior to last night I didn't have a clue as to who "I, Synthesist" was and thought "Oh, just another opening act filler." Boy was I wrong. From the moment this one man band appeared on stage my ear was magically drawn into the beats, synths, and vocals emanating from the sound system. After the set, I didn't have to be told twice and immediately bought this album. I love it and if you like New Wave and modern day Synth Pop you'll love it as well. I'm amazed that I didn't hear more about Chris Ianuzzi before. All in all if you're looking for a nice, well crafted, and catchy electronic album to dance or bob your head to this is a great selection to make.

NEW new wave!.......2004-07-30

Some may call it a trend, some may call it nostalgia, and some may call it a musical renaissance, but the recent wave of new wave and synth pop revivalists seems to be going strong. Joining the ranks is I, Synthesist, the brainchild of New York composer/producer Chris Ianuzzi. The man has been brewing his special blend of electronic-generated bliss for sometime, having contributed his skills to the likes of HBO, The History Channel, and collaborating with Vangelis and Peter Baumann of Tangerine Dream. With such an impressive resume, expectations for a debut solo release may run high; suffice to say, Ianuzzi knows electronic music well and rises to the challenge wonderfully. I, Synthesist is pure avant-garde new wave synth pop the likes of which have not been seen or heard since Kraftwerk or Gary Numan. Running the gamut from creating pure mood and atmosphere to beautifully infectious dance sequences, the music on Avalanche is sure to get listeners moving their feet and aspiring musicians running for their keyboards.
Kicking things off is the song "Red Clouds," exemplifying what the disk has to offer. Ianuzzi's vocals are, for the most part, raw and unfiltered (with exception of the vocoder effects on "Paralyzed"); he comes across sounding like an American Stephan Groth. The lyrics are very futurist, recalling the attitudes of the `80's new wavers who looked forward to a shining new technological age in the 21st century. The electronics blend pulsating bass lines and dance beats with the familiar but oh so tried and true pop melodies; enough to give the futurepop EBM heavyweights a run for their money. Another standout is "Images," sounding like a mutant hybrid of older Depeche Mode mixed with Covenant. The music is of special note here, revolving around some unorthodox chord progressions, which belie the simplicity of the synth pop genre. "Captain, My Captain" sounds like the best song Gary Numan never wrote, with a synth melody that sounds eerily like those used on "Cars." Songs like "Aerial Dreams" and "Hiding" begin with a slow buildup of dreamlike soundscapes and sequences that gradually lead into more fodder for the dance floor.
I, Synthesist's Avalanche is an album the new wave crowd can be proud of. It manages to recall the sound of old while still having the ability to compete with the modern sound. It both complements and challenges today's futurepop and EBM scene with music and lyrics that may sound like old-hat, but are really just as relevant today as it was then. With Avalanche, Chris Ianuzzi makes a statement that I, Synthesist is here to revel in a new future. Listen and enjoy.

A fantastic debut!.......2004-05-13

I have seen I,Synthesist live several times and based on those shows I purchased "Avalanche".

The CD is fantastic from start through finish and I have found it a favorite for my car stereo. My favorite tracks so far are "Avalanche", "Images" "The Lost Parade", "Aerial Dreams", "Red Clouds" and "Captain, My Captain".

I highly recommend this CD and if you get a chance to see I, Synthesist perform do not pass up the opportunity. The songs are great live and cool visuals are used to enhance the show even more.

Frank J. Freda
http://www.halovox.com

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