House of Music

Track Listings

1. Thinking of You

2. Top Notch

3. Let's Get Down

4. Til Last Summer

5. Lovin' You

6. Still a Man

7. Don't Fall in Love

8. Holy Smokes & Gee Whiz

9. Annie May

10. Let Me Know

11. Tossin' and Turnin'

12. Wild Child

13. Party Don't Cry

14. Lovin' You (Interlude)

Editorial Reviews
Amazon.com
Like any other old-school R&B band trying to establish some street cred these days, Tony Toni Tone devotes one track on House of Music to a collaboration with a guest rapper. The track is the first single, "Let's Get Down," and the rap star is DJ Quik, but the results are not what you'd think. For one thing, the Oakland trio applies its trademark of relaxed self-assurance to the mix. While everyone else in hip-hop and R&B is flinging electronic beats, synth bleeps, and vocal beefs at the listener, Tony Toni Tone never hurries. Lead singer Raphael Saadiq, {cq} his brother Dwayne Wiggins and their cousin Timothy Christian Riley exude the confidence that they're in control, so they can take the time to let the beat sway and slide rather than slam all the time. --Geoffrey Himes

House of Music,Tony! Toni! Tone!,Polygram Records,Hip-Hop,Pop,R&B,Soul/Reggae/Rhythm & Blues,Urban

House of Music

Tracks:

Nobody Wants To
Don't Stop Now
She Called Up
Say That Again
Pour Le Monde
Even A Child
Heaven That I'm Making
A Sigh
Silent House
English Trees
Walked Her Way Down
Transit Lounge
You Are The One To Make Me Cry
People Are Like Suns

Amazon.com

Fourteen years, a live CD/DVD, some solo albums, and one tragic suicide after Crowded House's last release comes this highly anticipated reunion. Singer/songwriter Neil Finn and bassist Nick Seymour reunited after the 2005 death of drummer Paul Hester, brought in a new member and two producers (Ethan Johns and Steve Lillywhite) to replace longtime cohort Mitchell Froom, and the impressive result is a logical and overdue addition to the band's previous four albums. Finn's knack for a melodic ballad remains firmly in place as Time on Earth coasts on his dreamy voice and introspective, hook-laden pop choruses. However, this is a more reflective collection that requires a few spins to fully reveal its charms. Finn co-writes "Even a Child" with Smiths guitarist Johnny Marr, and that and the frisky "She Called Up" are the most buoyant tracks on this predominantly pensive disc. Finn has generally shaded towards a darker edge and this hour-long set might have benefited from more of the lighter touch he applies to "Transit Lounge," a song enhanced by Beth Rowley's lovely and startling wordless vocals along with jazzy electric piano and even airport sound effects. Strings, sitar, and intricate production add subtle elements that bolster the timeless musical qualities Finn has always reveled in. The ominous, even brooding "Silent House," a co-write with all three Dixie Chicks, is another highlight that sounds like nothing either has done before as it floats along on fuzz guitar and hurdy-gurdy, both courtesy of Johns. Trimming some weaker cuts would have made this a more focused listen, but Time on Earth is a worthy successor to Crowded House's existing catalog--a high compliment indeed. --Hal Horowitz

Customer Reviews:

Great Album.......2007-08-06

It took me a listen or two to get into this CD, but once I did, it didn't leave my CD player! This is a beautiful, glimmering, haunting record. Crowded House's usual antics are greatly tempered and informed by Paul Hester's death, and for this reason, I know I'll be listening to this one for a long long time.

Welcome back to the House.......2007-08-05

We missed you guys. This album is great. A bit sad perhaps and yes, we miss Paul too. Crowded House and Finn fans won't want to miss this great collection of songs.

Simply Excellent.......2007-08-03

No need for a lot of analysis; a great CD in every way and on every track.

After 14 year absence, a great band returns.........2007-08-01

This album is awesome. but many fans of Crowded House might be dissapointed if they expect to hear the 80's or 90's CH. Every band has to grow musically and CH is no exception. After two solo albums, another Finn Bros. album, and losing the irreplacible Paul Hester, I can understand why man fans were skeptical, if not angry that this reunion happened. but I am very glad that Neil got back with Nick, Mark and the new edition of Matt Sherod (Beck's Drummer), to release a great album full of depth and emotion.

to cite a few songs, "Nobody wants to" is a great start right out the gate. beautiful melody. the 1st single "dont stop now" is a faster paced song that instantly draws you in. it has a feel of the older Crowded House we know and love as does the next song "she called up".

the album gets dark and slower (for the most part), at this point which isnt a bad thing. its just not the happy, poppy CH we're used to. I draw comparison to the song "Edible Flowers" from the Finn brother's "everyone is here" album a few years back.

theres' even some experimentation in "transit lounge". a song that sounds more like a Neil Finn solo project song. (maybe it was before the album officially became a CH album).

all in all, like the many reviews before me the album isnt as easily accesible as its predecesors.its slower, sadder and it doesnt get stuck in your head as easily as "dont dream its over" but its good that way.
Neil has a wisdom that I can only imagine comes with age. he's nearing 50 but the songwriting is like wine; it only gets better.

Ive heard rumours that another CH album is already in the works for '08-
09. I cant wait already!

I am glad that in a world of mediocrity and record-company pushed crap this band came back against the odds to give us music with A MEANING....

Phenomenal Songwriting.......2007-07-30

What a great return for this band. Excellent songwriting, really nice production. A must-have CD.

Average customer rating:

This one just plain old sucks
Chemical Bros. on sedatives
Not old Chemicals, New Chemicals!
Yes, You Are the Night
Don't think I'll buy it!!

We Are the Night
The Chemical Brothers
Manufacturer: Astralwerks
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music

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The Mix-Up
Our Love to Admire
Icky Thump
Zeitgeist
Year Zero

ASIN: B000OV129I
Release Date: 2007-07-17

Tracks:

No Path To Follow
We Are The Night
All Rights Reversed (The Klaxons)
Saturate
Do It Again (Ali Love)
Das Spiegal
The Salmon Dance (Fatlip)
Burst Generator
A Modern Midnight Conversation
Battle Scars (Willie Mason)
Harpoons
The Pills Won't Help You Now (Midlake)

Amazon.com

One can never accuse the Chemical Brothers of consistency. We Are the Night continues their eclectic electronica approach even though the big-beat groove of the title track remains their digital calling card. Spotted with a minimalist keyboard pattern, vocal non sequiturs, and sampled sound effects, the infectious groove of "We Are the Night" eventually evolves into the monotone-chanted dance chorus of "We are the night skies/We are the bright lies," recalling Brian Eno circa Here Come the Warm Jets. However, for every catchy electro-dance, there's a tune that leaves you scratching your head. What to make of the novelty song "The Salmon Dance" is anybody's guess, though you might find some illumination in a salmon recipe on their Web site. With fractured nursery-rhyme lyrics that are sung like an off-color Sesame Street rap, it will drive you up the wall--or at least toward the skip button. Then there's Midlake singing the trancey ballad "The Pills Won't Help You Now," making the Chemical Brothers sound like a sci-fi version of Coldplay. Retro-analog synthesizers dominate, with the electro-grooves of "Das Spiegel," "Burst Generator," and "Saturate," which builds on a Kraftwerk-forged metal framework coupled with storming sampled drums. The circuits of '70s techno-pop artist the Normal are re-soldered on "Do It Again." With Ali Love singing the title-track chorus, it's built to be a summertime anthem akin to Tag Team's "Whoomp! (There It Is)," albeit robotically chilled. --John Diliberto

Customer Reviews:

This one just plain old sucks.......2007-08-05

Up until this point I have liked what the chemical brothers have done. Each album went out and did something different. However, with this album, if you can even call it that, it's like they went into the studio for 5 minutes, pushed some buttons and said "that sounds good enough". This album has got to be one of the laziest outings ever by CB. It doesn't even sound like them half the time, it's like some 10 year old made an album and they just put their name on it. I miss the days of Surrender where every song was awesome. With this album though, I can't stop thinking that even I could've made something better with my $100 midi keyboard. The tracks are about as minimal as you can get. Hopefully this isn't a sign of things to come. In any case, fan or not, I would suggest saving your money with this one. It's lazy, has sloppy production, and is just overall confused on what it is trying to convey.

Chemical Bros. on sedatives.......2007-07-31

I own every studio album by the CB, but I regret to say I will not be buying this one. Saturate and Modern Midnight conversation are decent, but the rest sound like Gorillaz B tracks. Looking forward to the next album.

Not old Chemicals, New Chemicals!.......2007-07-29

I love the Chemical Brothers. As an electronic musician and dj, the Chems are my favorite artist and my biggest influence.

My favorite work of theirs is actually their DJ mix, "Brother's Gonna Work It Out." Just awesome.

I didn't really like their last album, "Push the Button." I thought it was just ok. I didn't play any of the songs of that album in my dj sets,(although I did play "Rise Up" which was actually a b-side to "Galvanize.")

I've never loved any of their albums though. I've just thought that certain songs on their albums were mind blowing. The albums usually don't have a very danceable flow to them.

This one does.

This album is the first Chemical Brothers album that I can listen to from beginning to end. There was only one song I thought was slightly mediocre (Das Spiegel).

"Do It Again" makes a ton more sense now that I've heard it within the context of the album. The sung vocals were questionable to me, but after hearing the album, I think it's brilliant.

And, for the record, I think the "Salmon Dance" is wicked dancefloor material. The funkiest Chemical Brothers track ever.

This album is a bit less in your face then the earlier stuff, but it is quite relevant to the current state of electronic music. It draws influences from the minimal house/berlin techno and nu-rave scene but transcend all of that. They really make some odd-ball decisions and push songs in really strange directions, all the while keeping their familiar sound pallette.

If you want the old (and still great) block rockin' Chemical Brothers, then this is probably not the album for you. But if you want to hear cutting edge dance music, this is it.

Currently my favorite electronic music album. Period.

-The Beat Counselor

[...]

Yes, You Are the Night.......2007-07-28

There are not so many bands in the musical panorama which, after releasing a singles' collection of a decade of existence, have made out 2 great new albums just after it. As many do, I really enjoy "Push the Button" but for me this album is almost capable of matching with it... and I must confess I was not expecting that. Yes, songs like "We Are the Night", "Das Spiegel" or "Burst Generator" are the night! Go for it fans, the formula is as good as ever.

Don't think I'll buy it!!.......2007-07-27

This is NOT the Chemical Bros. that I know of!!! What the hell happened??? This whole album blows!! Thank god for the preview or else I would have to add another album to the stack of dust collectors and paperweights!! Listen at your own risk!!!

Average customer rating:

Glad you're happy in Spain but not the same J.R.

Country Mouse City House
Josh Rouse
Manufacturer: Nettwerk Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Easy Tiger
She's Spanish, I'm American
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ASIN: B000ROAL3U
Release Date: 2007-07-31

Tracks:

Sweetie
Italian Dry Ice
Hollywood Bass Player
God, Please Let Me Go BAck
Nice To Fit In
Pilgrim
Domesticated Lovers
London Bridges
Snowy

Amazon.com

Since his debut record showcased a youthful Nebraskan with an open road of promise, on through the five albums that followed Josh Rouse has followed that road in dawdling, nomadic spurts across America and the Atlantic to Spain, where he now lives his life and makes his music. Annually, it seems, Rouse re-emerges to say hello, streaming his pop awareness and weaving stories in the simplicity of songs, always with an air of candor and reticence. Thus, there are few bombshells on his seventh release, one flowing with lustrous arrangements and Rouse's pacifying voice. Though his guitar serves as the conduit, the music is fused with modest horns and gentle organ fills, with buoyant songs such "Hollywood Bass Player," "Domesticated Lovers," and "London Bridges," along with the jazzy "Pilgrim" and the splendid rocker "Nice To Fit In" leading the way. No longer the naïve Midwesterner from a decade ago, this is the globetrotting Rouse who has found a home in Spain--and deserves to find another in your record collection. --Scott Holter

Customer Reviews:

Glad you're happy in Spain but not the same J.R........2007-08-02

Time was when no one could match Josh Rouse for peppy pop hooks and music that just darn-it made me smile. 1972 or Nashville was always guaranteed to cheer me up when I was down. Starting with Subtitulo he seems to be connecting more with the Establishment. The latest effort sounds pretty much like the house band in a cocktail lounge, or Mantovani - horns, strings and something called a mellotron. JR seems to be going more for a cool-jazz vibe. He has apparently grown up and left the fun music behind. I did enjoy Hollywood Bass Player a lot, but the rest of it is forgettable, music to have in the background at your bridge party.

Average customer rating:

Excellent live album full of energy and killer songs for Crowdies
Beyond great!
A Wonderful "Farewell"
The World Where They Lived
Were they really this good?

Farewell to the World
Crowded House
Manufacturer: Capitol
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Time on Earth
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ASIN: B000G8NW6K
Release Date: 2007-01-16

Tracks:

Mean To Me
World Where You Live
When You Come
Private Universe
Four Seasons In One Day
Fall At Your Feet
Whispers And Moans
Hole In the River
Better Be Home Soon
Pineapple Head
Distant Sun
Into Temptation
Everything Is Good For You

Tracks:

Locked Out
Something So Strong
Sister Madly
Italian Plastic
Weather With You
It's Only Natural
There Goes God
Fingers Of Love
In My Command
Throw Your Arms Around Me
Don't Dream It's Over

Amazon.com

If there ever was a farewell album could make one long for a reunion, this is it. Crowed House had their own personal hegemony of the airwaves in the '80s and '90s, and their final show on the steps of Sydney's Opera Plaza in 1996 shows you exactly why. This two-CD package overachieves as a live document, capturing both the high emotion of the crowd (120,000 strong) and stoicism of the band members, except for the final two songs, which find Neil Finn with a catch in his throat, fumbling over words. The entire recording is filled with memorable moments, brimming with humanity, heart, and the group's irreverent sense of humor--from dedicating song to the full moon, to inviting former band members onstage. "A Hole in the River," the gothic tune about Finn's aunt's suicide continues to haunt, while "Something So Strong" has grown up to be a self-help anthem. Farwell to the World is engaging, smart, philosophical, and sometimes even prophetic on songs like "Weather with You," when Neil Finn cautions, "You can fight the sleep, but not the dream." --Jaan Uhelszki

From the Label

Crowded House Photos

More from Crowded House

Recurring Dream: The Very Best Of Crowded House
Crowded House
Temple of Low Men

Album Description

Two CD set containing the final live performance by this Australian band fronted by Neil Finn (also of Split Enz and the Finn Brothers) finally released on the 10th anniversary of it's recording. In Novermber of 1996, Crowded House played their final gig in front of 120,000 fans in Sydney, Australia. Farewell To The World is the offically released recording of that bittersweet concert. All the Crowdies hits are here including 'Don't Dream It's Over', 'World Where You Live', 'Weather With You', 'Something So Strong', 'It's Only Natural' and many more. 24 songs total. EMI. 2006.

Album Details

2006 Legitimate Issue of the Most Sought after Concert Recording by the New Zealand Foursome. Previously Available for a Very Short Time Only on Videocassette, this was the Band's Final Performance as the Sydney Opera House. While a Bittersweet Occasion, it was One of the Most Impassioned Performances Ever Delivered by the Group. All the I's were Dotted and the T's Crossed, featuring Final Renditions of all their Hits, Capped off with an Impassioned, "Don't Dream It's Over". While Neil, Nick and Paul Would Later Perform at a Few Charity Concert Appearances, this was the Group's Final Formal Sendoff, Making it all the More Poignant for Fans in the Wake of Paul Hester's Subsequent Passing. One More Time, Relish the Joy that was One of the Great Phenomenons in Modern Pop Music History.

Customer Reviews:

Excellent live album full of energy and killer songs for Crowdies.......2007-07-15

Ok true confessions first--I'm a huge Neil Finn fan and also had this when it was released 10 years ago as part of the Crowded House Fanclub live releases. This release improves on the original in one way--we get two discs instead of one. I really haven't compared this to my fanclub CD (hey, it's the only fanclub I belonged to and I did**honest**for the CDs)but this does seem a bit louder with less dynamic range. Nevertheless, I'm going with the five stars here for the performances.

I can't say I've done a head-to-head of late between this and the previous single disc edition so I don't know if any overdubbing was done. If it was, they did a masterful job of hiding it--the band sounds terrific (and yes, on a great night they sounded this good--heck even on a bad night they outclassed the competition). The only new material here is a cover of the Hunter & Collector's tune "Throw Your Arms Around Me" but it's one of the few places to also get a stunning live version of "Everything Is Good For You" (which appeared on their last release as a band the "Recurring Dream" Best of set). It's also one of the few CDs in print where you can hear live versions (many of them stunning)of the tracks for their albums "Woodface" and "Together Alone". The band DID release a live EP with some of the material here but that's long out of print and probably fetching high prices on Ebay and here as well.

Even my LEAST favorite track the humorous "Italian Plastic" by the late Paul Hester is enjoyable to listen to here. Luckily for fans, the Dream isn't over as the band has since released a new album and is touring the world. Let's hope that they get back in the studio quickly as Neil's indicated that he'd like to put together another album of new material ASAP.

Beyond great!.......2007-05-07

I have been a Crowded House / Finn Brothers fan for a long time, but this live CD is amazing. Neil Finn is such a talented and gracious musician and performer. If you are already a fan, this would be a great addition to your collection. If you are new to them, it is a great represenation of their talent and will make you want more. One of the best music purchases I have made this year.

A Wonderful "Farewell".......2007-03-20

Of course, with the news that Neil Finn, Nick Seymour, and Mark Hart will be touring again with a new drummer, this isn't really a 'farewell' as it were, but for hardcore CH fans, it is, and with the recent death of drummer Paul Hester, this recording attains an added bit of ironic melancholy and increased appreciation.

This is a great double CD, and for even casual fans of the band, it is well worth purchasing. The production is fabulous, and the performances are excellent. One will find so many of the "greatest hits" ("Distant Sun", "Weather With You", "World Where You Live", "Don't Dream It's Over", and my personal favorite, "Fall At Your Feet") done well, especially "Don't Dream", the last song of the show, complete with crowd-sung chorus and deafening applause at the conclusion. But fans will also enjoy other non-single album tracks like "Whispers And Moans", "Fingers of Love", and "When You Come", songs that are terrific but didn't make the Greatest Hits cut. Also included are some elements of the personality of the band, something that separated them from the majority of bands who take themselves way too seriously. Neil adds alternate lyrics in "Into Temptation" when he realizes the crowd in front needs water; during "Sister Madly", Paul does an imitation of Tina Turner, and the songs ends with the line, "Climb every mountian...". The guys are fully enjoying this last show, and you can tell it is not just for the 100,000+ fans there and the MTV Europe audience watching it live, but for themselves as well, and this recording captures that nicely.

I will say this: I bought a VHS copy of this show a few years ago before this CD was officially released, and this recording takes out some of the in-between song banter that made the concert feel even more like a concert. But on the up-side, more songs from the show were included in this 2 CD set than on the original film, especially a few more songs with neil's brother Tim, and the Hester-penned song "Italian Plastic".

I highly recommend this release.

The World Where They Lived.......2007-03-15

This CD has not only brilliant sound quality, but the performances are incredible. Neil's singing is as good as ever, and you definitely feel that you're there with rock and roll's greatest audience listening to what are collectively some of the best songs ever written. The beauty of a live Crowded House show is not only in the world's most beautiful instrument, Neil Finn's voice, but it's just as much in the audience participation in singing along to very cool tunes.

This is an amazing CD that will probably leave most of us wondering, gee, why didn't you make it a four-disc set?

Were they really this good?.......2007-02-23

Yes, the Crowdies were one of the few truly great bands to come out of the '80's. I first read about them in a rave review of their 1st album in the pages of Musician magazine (circa '86), bought the c.d., and have followed their brilliant but less than prolific output ever since.

Those who are reading this review are probably somewhat familiar with the band's history (Split Enz, etc.), but one fact bears repeating for U.S. listeners: Only here were they known as one hit wonders; the rest of the world quickly figured out how good they were and the band's star rose accordingly. In fact, the Very Best of Crowded House (from '96) entered the charts at number one in both England and Australia.

This live c.d. is a welcome addition to their catalogue capturing the band in 1996 in front of 100,000+ in a perfect display of the dual professionalism and looseness of their live shows.

I can't help but recommend the DVD too. In fact if you can only plunk down for one, then get the DVD. I recommend both.

Recurring Dream: The Very Best Of Crowded House

Average customer rating:

the return of crowded house.....
Great CD
Essential compilation of severely underrated band
An entire CD that is very easy to listen to.
beautiful, soaring, exciting pop/rock

Recurring Dream: The Very Best Of Crowded House
Crowded House
Manufacturer: Capitol
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B000002U5B
Release Date: 1996-07-23

Tracks:

Weather With You
World Where You Live
Fall At Your Feet
Locked Out
Don't Dream It's Over
Into Temptation
Pineapple Head
When You Come
Private Universe
Not The Girl You Think You Are
Instinct
I Feel Possessed
Four Seasons In One Day
It's Only Natural
Distant Sun
Something So Strong
Mean To Me
Better Be Home Soon
Everything Is Good For You

Customer Reviews:

the return of crowded house............2007-03-15

this band needs no intro....
this greatest hits shows the greatness of a band audio-wise but doesnt show their incredible live presence and on-stage banter that made them legends. Paul Hester sadly left us a few years ago but the news is out:

Thursday, January 25, 2007

Crowded House Reform - Official Statement from the Band

Crowded House founders Neil Finn and Nick Seymour have confirmed that they will be putting the band back together, with plans for a new studio album and world tour.

Talking about the decision Neil said "After spending most of last year making music and hanging out with my friend Nick Seymour we are now announcing our intention to reform Crowded House with a new record entitled Time On Earth. It feels right to us that the band should re-emerge at this time and together with Mark Hart we look forward to reconnecting with the audience that we established and for whom we still hold a deep respect. We aim to make the upcoming shows and the new music every bit as vital and spirited as what has come before. We are conscious that Paul Hester was above all a great drummer and we are currently auditioning to find someone special to take that role."

The band is currently putting the finishing touches on the new album for release later in the year. Tour plans are yet to be announced but the band have confirmed they will play the Coachella Music and Arts Festival in California USA along with Bjork, Red Hot Chilli Peppers and Rage Against the Machine."

they are coming out with a new album this year (2007) and a new tour!!!!

GOD BLESS CROWDED HOUSE.....

Great CD.......2007-02-09

I really didn't know much about this band. I loved the song "Don't Dream It's Over"; so I bought this CD. The entire CD is great. It is filled with easy listening and mellow songs. The CD just leaves you feeling really good. I love it.

Essential compilation of severely underrated band.......2007-01-19

I agree with most of the other reviewers: Crowded House were massively underrated. The critics were fond of their albums at the time, and in the years since Neil Finn has been acknowledged of one of the master songwriters of his generation. Still, outside of their home turf of Australia and New Zealand, few people are familiar with the name Crowded House. Play them "Don't Dream It's Over," their brilliant 1987 chart-topper, and you'll probably get a vague, "Ohhh, they did *that* song." This is simply a shame.

Almost every band purported to be the Next Big Thing eventually gets compared to The Beatles, whether it's Duran Duran or The Strokes, and it's usually quite a stretch in any number of ways. Not so with Crowded House. In superficial aesthetics the two bands share a lot in common: the Rubber Soul-like harmonies that adorn their album Woodface; the driving, melodic basslines of Nick Seymour (much like Paul McCartney); Paul Hester's non-technical, but undeniably toe-tapping drumming; and Neil Finn's voice, which can break into Lennon-esque, hoarse rock shout, or have a soothing clarinet quality like McCartney.

But the songwriting is where the comparison is most apt. The Beatles' best songs seem almost inevitable and cosmic: *somebody* was bound to happen upon a melody this perfect eventually (as in "Yesterday"), and for some reason Lennon and McCartney were able to pluck such songs out of the air regularly. Neil Finn did the same, several times for each album, with Crowded House. Listen to "Four Seasons In One Day" just once, and you'll hear what I mean.

With this album, all these songs are collected in one place. I can't say how essential this disc is for anyone who appreciates outstanding pop songwriting that goes beyond catchy and crafted and into the realm of something deep and transcendent. The first 10 listens you'll be enjoying the melodies, energy and fantastic production; after that, you'll feel like you've found a new musical best friend. It's that good.

An entire CD that is very easy to listen to........2007-01-13

This CD plays like an easy listening extravaganza. Every song is mellow and classic. The band is apparently from New Zealand/Australia, which may explain the subtle brit pop undertones.. not to mention the McCartney-esque style of a few tracks. Overall this CD is a great buy, you won't be disappointed.

beautiful, soaring, exciting pop/rock.......2006-12-31

When I first listened to this disk, I could knew one Crowded House song (Don't Dream It's Over), which is a great song, but I didn't know the band. A friend recommended this disk, which I listened to the first time at work. I didn't get anything done for that hour, and if CD's could wear out, I'd long ago have needed to replace this one.

Crowded House may not be a major band - one MTV hit, a couple of radio hits, and they're real big in New Zealand (where they are from) - but they are one of greats. Reminiscent at times of (OK, I know, this gets thrown around too often, but it's true) the Beatles (in their mid-years - think Rubber Soul) and The Ocean Blue, they can mellow with the best (Not the Girl You Think You Are, Four Seasons in One Day). When they choose to rock (Locked Out), the maintain musical and lyrical integrity. Weather With You is an indescribable joy.

Perhaps not for metalheads, but anyone who likes sophisticated (but not overly complex) arrangements, thoughtful lyrics, and spotless, emotional performance will love this.

Average customer rating:

Deserving the 5 stars
Yellow House
Welcome Home
Perfect end to a perfect day .
Each day, I spend it with you

Yellow House
Grizzly Bear
Manufacturer: Warp Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Central And Remonte
Little Brother
Plans
Marla
On A Neck, On A Spit
Reprise
Colorado

Amazon.com

It's a rare thing to find a band that counts the glockenspiel, autoharp, banjo, and flute as key instruments, especially when it's a rock band with just four members. Grizzly Bear use all the above instruments plus another dozen or so to make the 10 floating, gossamer, low-lit tunes that comprise Yellow House. They are rounded edges, off-kilter waltzes ("Lullabye," which teeters tipsily), laconic vignettes, and even a vintage 1930s waltz written by singer Edward Droste's great-aunt. The meshwork here is Grizzly Bear's smarts, a banjo lending fleeting rhythmic hints to a guitar-picked melody ("Reprise"), a haunted piano filling the sonic air with smoke. All four members sing duskily and softly, making a slow-going atmosphere that would delight the great composer Morton Feldman. The brilliance here is that every song mesmerizes, not with aural dominance but with an atmospheric magnetism. --Andrew Bartlett

Album Description

"Magical, haunting melodies are Grizzly Bear's mainstay. A band that won't jilt you; they always craft their songs from start to finish--and meticulous instrumentation and arrangements are their specialty. On "Yellow House", Grizzly Bear still flexes its lo-fi connoisseurship, but with a better recording--still totally DIY, now embellished with fine sonic engineering."

Customer Reviews:

Deserving the 5 stars.......2007-06-24

Most of the reviews for this record are right on. GB have an incredibly haunting, big sound, full of menace and beauty. These guys clearly aren't trying to recreate anything else. One of the most stunning releases by any band in a long, long time.

Yellow House.......2007-06-07

The old cliché about the parallel between sound and location pops up here in an endearing way: Yellow House was recorded in singer/guitarist Edward Droste's mother's house--yellow, of course--on the outskirts of Boston. The domicile's creakiness and mustiness permeates these uniformly lovely songs, giving them the homespun feel of something that's been sewn together in an old rocking chair. Grizzly Bear uses the full band at its disposal by gracefully piling instruments atop each other, and their solid group dynamic allows them to focus on ancillary yet important elements like mood and album flow. Some have griped that the production is too tinny for something this sweeping, but if it doesn't sound like a Sony cash cow, it does have the air of a time capsule, dug up and played on the Victrola for the first time in decades. It's the final magic touch on a thoroughly accomplished and enjoyable record.

Welcome Home.......2007-05-11

The lo-fi neo-psychedelia freak-folk of "Yellow House" is not so easily described. Hence the rather amorphous appellates "lo-fi" and "neo-psychedelia" and "freak-folk." Listening to the album (over and over again), a lot of descriptions came to mind...

The Beach Boys, minus the beach ("Knife").

A moon-powered TV on the Radio ("On A Neck, On A Spit").

A tamed-n-trained Animal Collective ("Easier").

Hot Chip on ice ("Little Brother").

If none of that makes any sense to you (and who can blame you?), let it be enough to say that Grizzly Bear's sophomore LP is as warm and silky as sudsy bathwater. The quartet utilizes banjos, laptops, and flutes (among other, more traditional instruments) to create something so atmospheric, so emotional, so good that at times it's just plain heart-wrenching.

Named after one of the band members' mother's home, where the album was recorded, the album is just as inviting as a return to the loamy roots of nostalgia. The apogee of cool soul sonics, "Yellow House" is big enough to live in, but as cozy as a warm embrace.

Perfect end to a perfect day ........2007-05-02

Do not listen to this album if your looking for something new, different, harmonic or simply put ~ beautiful. If you are though, my curious friend then may the gods be with you to absorb the melodic blows this album delivers.

Grizzly Bear like a few choice indy(ish) bands have there vocals down almost too perfectly. "Easier" kicks off the album as a bedtime story that leads to worlds unseen. You really get a feel of what the album will be like in this first song ~ harmony, simple drum placement, and sounds you hear only in cartoons way too early in the morning. All these make up whats to come ~ "Knife" shows up just in time to remind you that its the vocals that make Yellow House.

I was really into "Central and Remote" for a while because of the amazing breakdown in the second half of the song. The acoustic really wants the musician inside you to come out and play, its THAT inviting! "Plans" will seem like the band formed into one giant animal because each sound brought by the members mesh just too well ~ the whistling and again the harmony between the memebers is astounding. Really makes you think the direction music is headed after hearing an album like this.

"Reprise and Colorado" couldn't be placed in the albums list any better. Colorado is also the most simplistic sounding song on the album, with repeating lyrics and the constant sound of something swarming around you. Those two finishing songs finally behead the monster that is Grizzly Bear ( in a good way ) Don't worry it will grow back and hopefully later into another beast with similar traits that follows this album.

Each day, I spend it with you.......2007-04-18

Grizzly Bear have been around for awhile, but "Yellow House" is their first album as a complete, cohesive quartet band. And it's a stunning piece of work, layering together ethereal freakfolk and gentle rock'n'roll into an eerily earthy sound -- it's like listening to a folk band made up of ghosts.

It opens with a run-through of the instrumentation -- a flute smoothing out into a wobbly violin, and some tinny piano. After a moment of silence, the band slips into "Easier," with its folky banjo/guitar melody wrapped in gentle shimmering synth. And the lyrics hint at broken houses and broken loves: "I know, I know, the doors won't close/the pipes all froze/just let it go...let's recreate an easier time/because I still can't find you."

They follow it up with an earthier song, "Lullabye," which meanders uncertainly through mostly acoustic territory, but with the occasional synthy chime. The songs that follow are in this mold -- ghostly rockers and fizzly, windy ballads. Each one starts off simple and slow, but builds up into atmospheric and powerful pieces of work.

If you just hear a sample or skip through it, "Yellow House" sounds like your basic folk-rock album. Not much to listen to. But listen to some of the songs in their entirety, and the beauty of their music really starts to stick out -- it's sort of glitchy shimmery freakfolk psychedelica, with a bit of lo-fi indie-rock thrown in for good measure.

They have a dud every now and then -- the first halves of "On a Neck, On a Spit" and "Reprise" are too banjoey and straightforward to fit in. However, the rest of the time they craft their music exquisitely -- the instrumentation and vocals are layered together into hypnotic swirls, sometimes fading out to give it that ghostly sound.

The instrumentation itself is a beautiful blend of all sorts of instruments -- some straightforward guitar and restrained banjo, some echoing glockenspiel and a soft flute. And the entire album is shrouded in dark, unearthly synth from Chris Taylor, ranging from glitches to wavers, misty fuzz to a twittering sound like a moth's wings.

All four members contribute their vocals, and their intertwined, mournful voices are absolutely stunning. They could sing just about anything and make it sound pretty -- in fact, "Colorado" is mostly made up of mournful calls of the title word. The other songs usually have a few more lines than that, but are pared down to the core: "A folding chair/Sitting out by the wading pool, chlorine blue/Rush of wind passing over me/Restless nights/Chin up, cheer up/My love's another kind..."

Grizzly Bear craft a beautiful, delicate collection of freakfolky tunes with a psychedelic edge, an exquisite listen that takes a little while to sink in. "Yellow House" should be lived in.

Average customer rating:

Deborah Does Dinah By Way Of Dianne
Sensually, The Next Unforgetable
Fantastic CD
Love her voice
Deborah Shines

Destination Moon
Deborah Cox
Manufacturer: Decca
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music

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The Decca Records Store | Specialty Stores | Music
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ASIN: B000ND91U4
Release Date: 2007-06-19

Tracks:

Destination Moon
What A Difference A Day Made
Misery
Baby, You've Got What It Takes
This Bitter Earth
Squeeze Me
New Blowtop Blues
Blue Skies
I Don't Hurt Anymore
Smoke Gets In Your Eyes
September In the Rain
Look To the Rainbow

Amazon.com

Those who don't know any better are apt to dismiss Deborah Cox as another R&B/dance diva determined to cling to the spotlight by whatever means necessary, including a giant genre-leap. Those who've been listening carefully, though, will check their doubts at Destination Moon's door. On this, her fourth disc, Cox sidles up to jazz--the jazz of her role model Dinah Washington--with subtlety and surefooted grace; along the way, she makes something of a masterpiece. From classics such as the title track to lesser-known but deeply felt compositions such as "I Don't Hurt Anymore," she avoids the temptation to rub a modern sheen over these songs and settles contentedly into the mood Washington carved for them instead. "This Bitter Earth" gets the "mm-hmm" treatment Dinah delivered so well, and "Misery" and "New Blowtop Blues" don't dream of belying their blueswoman roots. Best of all are the more delicate tracks: "Look to the Rainbow" captivates with a contemplative sadness, and "Blue Skies" is a natural wonder as beautiful as a dose of pure azure on a cloudless day. --Tammy La Gorce

Album Description

Platinum-selling recording artist Deborah Cox reinterprets the classic songs of Dinah Washington on her Decca debut, Destination Moon. Destination Moon thrusts the R&B/dance diva into whole new territory, showcasing her range and scope as an artist capable of tackling jazz, blues and "big-band" with ease and confidence. Deborah Cox's first exposure to Washington came very early, when she was a little girl. "I first became aware of Dinah when I was growing up, when I was about 8 or 9 years old" she says. "A lot of jazz was played about the house. I heard my mother playing a 45 of "This Bitter Earth" -- this first song I had ever heard from Dinah. It was the richness and the tonality of her voice that I gravitated to." For the arrangements and the production, Deborah turned to the highly-versatile New York-based music man Rob Mounsey, whose credits with such diverse performers include Paul Simon, Steely Dan, Aretha Franklin and Tony Bennett to name a few. The record was made live in the studio, with 40 musicians in the same room with her, playing and singing in real time under Mounsey's direction. "I'm doing this to broaden people's awareness of what I can do and also for the sheer love of her music." As a result, Deborah's homage to Dinah Washington does not lean overwhelmingly toward one particular style. It was designed from the beginning to be a compendium of several of Dinah's idioms - the big-band swing of "All Of Me" and "Destination Moon," swaggering R&B ("I Don't Hurt Anymore)," the blues that earned her the misleading nickname "Queen of the Blues" ("Misery," "New Blowtop Blues"), the lush ballads that put her on the jukeboxes of Middle America ("What A Diff'rence A Day Made," "This Bitter Earth").

Customer Reviews:

Deborah Does Dinah By Way Of Dianne.......2007-08-04

I was completely unfamiliar with Deborah Cox before purchasing this c.d. Considering that she hadn't released a c.d.in 3 years, this oversight was somewhat understandable.

It's an oversight that will be no more.

After about 16 bars, the comparison of Deborah Cox with Dianne Reeves was undeniable. Meaning, first of all, if you love Dianne Reeves (and if you don't, what in the hell is wrong with you?!), most assuredly you will love Deborah Cox. (This c.d. also compares very favorably with the more famous Gladys Knight's c.d., "Before Me", of 2006)

This is a tribute album to Dinah Washington, and Ms. Cox is every bit the singer that the late, great Ms. Washington was. Whether singing jazz (a great version of Harry Warren's "September in the Rain"), soul ("Misery") blues ("New Blowtop Blues", my favorite on this c.d.) or cabaret (a show-stopping rendition of the great torch song, "Smoke Gets In Your Eyes"), Ms. Cox has impressive chops to display, and display them she does.

And a huge thumbs up to Rob Mounsey, the producer, arranger, pianist, and assistant recording engineer. This c.d. just sounds fabulous. Although the arrangements at time threaten to be a bit slick, overblown and familiar, they never cross the line. Mr. Mounsey deserves mention in the same breath with John Clayton, Jr.

More importantly, Ms. Cox (like Ms. Reeves) has a huge voice, and thus she works best with a lot of sound behind her. Ms. Cox sounds like a class act, and based on the photos in the liner notes, looks like one, too.

If [...] had a 4 and 1/2 star rating, that's where I'd end up. This is, after all, old wine in new bottles. There's nothing here I haven't heard before. But what an impressive new bottle this is! 5 stars, just for that. RC

Sensually, The Next Unforgetable.......2007-08-03

This past year, there just haven't been so much but only hype with female recording artists. It is sad and unfortunate, because it seems like the sound of the music doesn't deliver well. With acts like Kelly Clarkson and Beyonce' who've made records, they just missed a little something to deliver to everyone, especially in R&B and standards too. For Deborah Cox, the past several years have been a bit difficult for her. After her departure from BMG and Arista, she did bounce back by performing in the final production of Elton John & Tim Rice's Aida in 2004-2005. Now, she also returned in a whole new way by bringings that standards back in real soul and R&B. however, does this album click, or fall down, it shines very bright.

Deborah Cox's 2007 Destination Moon, is her debut on the acclaimed Decca Records. The album pays a sensual tribute to Jazz songstress Dinah Washington, and delivers. The mood from Deborah's voice, delivers the more seductive and sensual performance she has made ever, and makes the mark well. The album includes great standards, and even some surprises that also made the record work. The orchestral feel mixes in tune nicely, and in such a way that it hasn't been heard this elequently since Natalie Cole's Unforgetable With Love. The album includes the title track Destination Moon, as well as the Jazz rendered Squeeze Me, Blue Skies, and a stirring rendition of a song that was more well known from the 50's group The Platters which Washington also recorded during her era, Smoke Gets In Your Eyes. Every track feels like it is a special treat, and something Deborah Cox shines in very brightly. My only gripe about the record is that is is just a bit too short, leaving listeners really going wild for more from Deborah's beautiful voice. But it is much better than most other albums released this past year, and 10x better than standards albums from Barry Manilow and Rod Stewart that surfaced a few years ago.

All in all, I really hope Deborah Cox keeps making great records like Destination Moon. I really love this record so much, it delivers from an angel. It is a great buy for die hard Deborah Cox fans, and fans of the classic Jazz-like Soul style from years ago that hasn't been heard on the radio for years. This is definitely so far the best album of 2007, and something that looks to the rainbow nicely.

Album Cover: B+

Songs: A 1/2-

Price: B+

Mastering: A

Overall: A-

This review is dedicated in loving memory of my cat Pierre. May he rest in peace, I will always love him.

Fantastic CD.......2007-07-21

I was so totally impressed with her voice and her style. Jazz is definitely Deborah Cox' forte'!! I bought two and gave one to a friend who feels exactly the same way. Hope to hear more from her along the "Jazz" lines....
S. Washington
Greenbelt, MD

Love her voice.......2007-07-18

I guess I'm a big sucker for souful, strong, powerful voice. Me loving this album proves it again. It's all jazz standards, nothing new. In the past year, getting new albums from Diana Ross, Natalie Cole, Diana Krall, it's like one disappointment after another. So when I heard this new album, I was more than happily surprised how good it is. If you're a fan of jazz standards, I bet you'll like this one.

Deborah Shines.......2007-07-05

From her self-titled debut, to One Wish, to The Morning After to Destination Moon, Deborah's albums are like mini-greatest hits compilations, and Deborah scores again with her interpretations of Dinah Washington's songs on Destination Moon. Deborah has the best voice in contemporary music today, and this album continuously showcases her incredible range and talent. Personal favorites will include the title track, "Misery", and "This Bitter Earth". The album's best songs are "What a Difference a Day Makes" and the closing "Look to the Rainbow". Flawless from start to finish, Deborah again creates a masterpiece.

Average customer rating:

GREAT! Brings back lots of Memories
Great fun
Dan's first album...Wiggle the Wiggles out of your CD Player
Thank goodness for Dan Zanes!!!!!!
My daughters favorite!

House Party
Dan Zanes
Manufacturer: Festival Five Rec.
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music

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Dan Zanes & Friends - All Around the Kitchen! Crazy Videos & Concert Songs!

ASIN: B0000CC85J
Release Date: 2003-10-07

Tracks:

House Party Time
Wabash Cannonball - with Bob Weir
Queremos Bailar
Hop Up Ladies
Washington At Valley Forge
Jamaica Farewell - with Angelique Kidjo
Tankoh-Bushi
Down In The Valley
Waltzing Matilda - with Deborah Harry
West Indian Counting Song
Sunny Old Sun
Tennessee Wig Walk
Shining Star
How Do You Do? - with David Jones
Daniel In The Den
Surrounded By Friendship
Old Joe Clark
Hey Little Red Bird
We Shall Not Be Moved
A Place For Us - with Phillip Glass

Amazon.com

For parents, listening to Dan Zanes provides not only instant Raffi relief, but also the warm sense of belonging to the right crowd. On each disc he trots out a posse of cool friends like Sheryl Crow, Suzanne Vega, and Lou Reed and he delivers his openhearted lyrics with the rare roots-rocker's gift for stirring grace into grit. It would seem that the release of his fourth record, House Party would be ripe for a backlash--how long can the hokey conceit of a bunch of aging groovsters banging out kids' tunes in a Brooklyn basement hang onto its charm? Looks like we'll have to wait and see, because House Party rages on with the same winning, welcome-to-our-homespun-revolution vibe as its predecessors. Deborah Harry takes a twirl on "Waltzing Matilda," Bob Weir fires up the "Wabash Cannonball," and Angelique Kidjo bids "Jamaica Farewell," but the Zanes originals are this record's proving grounds, and they pin the tail on the donkey with bulls-eye precision. Contributions from returning regulars Barbara Brousal and Rankin' Don--the best couple of favors a party could hope for--send Zanes' campaign to become the guy who turned lampshade-wearing into a kindergarten fashion craze soaring. --Tammy La Gorce

Customer Reviews:

GREAT! Brings back lots of Memories.......2007-07-27

I purchased this CD for my baby and she and I love it! She loves the tunes and the songs bring back memories from my childhood. I would highly recommend this CD. It's fun and will have you singing along.

Great fun.......2007-07-25

My daughter loves this cd and it's grown on me too. She and I dance a lot to this. One favorite is the "Wabash Cannonball" and "Waltzing Matilda" with Debbie Harry is fantastic.

Dan's first album...Wiggle the Wiggles out of your CD Player.......2007-06-12

You may have seen Dan on various spots on Sesame Street, I first saw him in his yellow suit, singing Jump Up. This album continues the wonderful music that my daughter has turned my wife and my self on to. The beats are there, and the lyrics are very catchy.

So do yourself a favor, swap out Wiggles or Barney for Dan and his Friends, and enjoy kids music once again.

Thank goodness for Dan Zanes!!!!!!.......2007-05-21

Mr. Zanes, you could not have come along at a better time! In a market where Teletubbies, Barney and the Wiggles seem to have the corner, this parent-friendly album is a welcome relief from all the fruit salad/I love you, you love me/lemondrops and gumdrops drivel that permeate my mushy stay-at-home mom brain!

When I was a single college gal, I remember listening to very hip, fun music. Then came pregnancy and babies. Then Baby Einstein music (which is good, but sounds like someone's ballerina jewelry box after awhile), Barney, Sesame Street and nursery rhyme CDs that took over my music collection. Ack!!! What happened to me? I decided it was time to search for something new for me and the kids to listen to.

After finding this CD and loving it, I just assumed that my one-year-old and four-year-old would not like DZ because it sounded too different from what they were used to. Boy, was I wrong! My older one thinks she is listening to "cool music" -- which she is! We especially like the "Wabash Cannonball" but every song on here is a hit with my kids. The guy is truly talented, and it's just great stuff. And it's fun to hear the celeb singers on a kid's album. Finally, we all have "cool music" to listen to!

My daughters favorite!.......2007-05-14

I bought this CD since Dan Zane is on the Disney Channel. My daughter absolutely loves it! She asks to hear "House Party" all day every day. We dance and sing and it has brought a lot of fun into our house.

Average customer rating:

Next-Generation tango
Tango fantasico
One Sexy CD
Tango Music at Its Best
Tango-Trance? Trance-Tango?

La Revancha del Tango
Gotan Project
Manufacturer: Xl Recordings
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music

Electronica | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music

House | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music

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General | Jazz | Styles | Music
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Shall We Dance?

ASIN: B00008NRL8
Release Date: 2003-04-08

Tracks:

Queremos Paz
Epoca
Chunga's Revenge
Triptico
Santa Maria (Del Buen Ayre)
Una Musica Brutal
El Capitalismo Foraneo
Last Tango In Paris
La Del Ruso
Vuelvo Al Sur

Tracks:

Triptico (Peter Kruder Mix)
Santa Maria (Tom Middleton's Cosmos Mix)
El Capitalismo Foraneo (Antipop Consortium Mix)
Santa Maria (Pepe Braddock Mix)

Amazon.com

Released in Europe in 2001, La Revancha Del Tango's sexy combination of chillout programming and authentic tango music became a lounge favorite and led to massive sales. Lightning struck twice when it was released two years later in the States--the domestic debut attracted the attention of electronic music hipsters, tango freaks, and world music geeks. And rightfully so. The Gotan trio of Philippe Cohen Solal, Christoph H. Müller, and Eduardo Makaroff write the album's strongest material themselves, but their imaginative incorporation of Frank Zappa's "Chunga's Revenge," Gato Barbieri's theme from the movie Last Tango In Paris and, not surprisingly, Astor Piazzolla's "Vuelvo Al Sur" into the Gotan world shows just how broad and inclusive their tastes really are. Naysayers may complain that this album can be heard in every hip restaurant and clothing boutique from Paris to Los Angeles, but sometimes the cream does rise to the top and gain mass acceptance, as it has here. Also includes a bonus disc of four remixes. --Tad Hendrickson

Album Description

The debut by this Paris based trio is a relaxed blend of tango dance rhythms and Argentinean instrumentation. The group was brought together by their passion to combine sound with image and to marry electronic and acoustic music. They built on their house, dub, and hip-hop influenced productions by adding two of Argentina's finest tango musicians, the musical result being supremely distinctive, incorporating bandonion (a form of accordion), violin, and vocals. This release includes 2000's most memorable jazz-house hit, "Triptico", which has already sold over 400,000 copies worldwide. The US version features the original ten tracks from the European release, along with a special bonus disc of the "Santa Maria" video plus four audio tracks.

Album Description

The debut by this Paris based trio is a relaxed blend of tango dance rhythms & Argentinean instrumentation. The group was brought together by their passion to combine sound with image & to marry electronic & acoustic music. They built on their house, dub, & hip-hop influenced productions by adding two of Argentina's finest tango musicians, the musical result being supremely distinctive, incorporating bandonion (a form of accordion), violin, & vocals. This release includes 2000's most memorable jazz-house hit, 'Triptico'. The U.S. special edition includes a second disc with five bonus tracks, 'Triptico' (Peter Kruder Mix), 'Santa Maria' (Tom Middleton's Cosmos Mix), 'El Capitalismo Foraneo' (Antipop Consortium Mix), & 'Santa Maria' (Pepe Braddock Mix & Video). Digipak. XL. 2003.

Customer Reviews:

Next-Generation tango.......2007-07-18

Let me tell you a little story: Once upon a time, there was a musical style known as Tango. It first appeared sometime around 1857. It was very popular in Europe and Argentina, then spread all over the world. In 2003, It was thought that nobody could do anything new in Tango music. Three guys decided to try it - they created a project called Gotan.
They succeeded.

Tango fantasico.......2007-06-27

I saw the movie "Shall we dance" and one of the songs from the film is on this cd. I liked the music and thought I would enjoy all of the songs if they had the same instrumental feel as the song. I really enjoy it and would recommend it for anyone who likes a mixture of latin, instrumental and tribal beats.

One Sexy CD.......2007-03-27

I'm loving the CD. They have a great sound....sensuous and chill. I first heard their music on a compilation CD. They play some of their tracks on Nip/Tuck too.

Tango Music at Its Best.......2007-03-09

This is definitely worth the purchase. A combination of Parisian electronica and Argentinian dance music. Perfect blend of two styles.

Tango-Trance? Trance-Tango?.......2007-02-18

A very nice French lady called Anne-Marie gave me this disc a few weeks ago and I've been listening to it ever since. I watch the American remake of the Japanese film, "Shall We Dance", last week and I noticed that the music of Gotan Project was used very effectively when Richard Geer dances with J-Lo.

I listened to "La Revancha del Tango" this Sunday afternoon. It was around 40 degrees outside - damned hot! - and I just sat and listened to this disc with my air conditioner on full blast. I rather think that I will play this CD the next time I have some friends over for a few drinks.

The music of Gotan Project is rather hypnotic and relentless on this CD. I like that. I guess that one could call this "Tango-Trance", or something like that?! The percussion/drums, bass line, piano and piano accordion dominates the sound here.

I've been playing "Lunatico" at work all week and I like it, too. Gotan Project is performing in Adelaide, South Australia soon and I am seriously considering making the effort to see them.

Very spunky, suave and sexy dance music.

Average customer rating:

Incredible!!
I love these girls!
FIRECRACKER
One of the Best Albums I've Heard in a While!
the Wailin' Jennys Firecracker

Firecracker
The Wailin' Jennys
Manufacturer: Red House
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Contemporary Folk | Folk | Styles | Music

General | Folk | Styles | Music

Traditional Folk | Folk | Styles | Music

Canada | North America | International | Styles | Music
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All the Roadrunning

ASIN: B000FFL2MU
Release Date: 2006-06-06

Tracks:

The Devil's Paintbrush Road
Glory Bound
Begin
Things That You Know
Swallow
Starlight
Apocalypse Lullaby
This Heart Of Mine
Long Time Traveller
Avila
Some Good Thing
Prairie Town
Firecracker

Amazon.com

When Winnipeg's Wailin' Jennys recorded their debut disc, 40 Days, back in 2004, their enthusiastic fan base--cultivated in part by significant airplay from CBC Radio One--provided the young group with a fast track to fame. Their fans' praise came first, critical acclaim arrived shortly thereafter, and a 2005 Juno for Best Roots & Traditional album soon followed. Surprisingly, as opportunities arose, founding member Cara Luft left the band, expediently replaced by Annabelle Chvostek. Thankfully, the Jennys' sound is none the worse for wear, even stronger in the respect that Chvostek's deft fiddle and mandolin playing helps to further uplift their melodies, while her warm alto adds a nice touch to the three part harmonies.

On this sophomore release, founding members Nicky Mehta and Ruth Moody continue in the tradition of writing songs independently, with each songwriter taking the lead on her own tracks. Moody seems to have the strongest songwriting sense: Listening to "Things That You Know" and "This Heart Of Mine" makes one yearn to hear the Dixie Chicks cover these tracks with the vocal strength and three-part power that the Wailin' girls do not have… yet. With a country edge and a Celtic lilt, Firecracker is an enjoyable listen, but those looking for edgy, O Brother-style country and alt-folk might find a better fit seeking out Gillian Welch or the Be Good Tanyas. Roots fans looking to dip their toes into easy listening-style acoustic music, however, will find this to be a fine fit. --Denise Sheppard

Customer Reviews:

Incredible!!.......2007-08-03

One of the finest performances I have ever heard. The only other CD that comes close is their other album "40." Both recording are incredible with lyrics that are about as poetic as you can imagine. Wish I had heard of them before.

I love these girls!.......2007-07-28

If you like folk, apparently Canada's where it's at - The Be Good Tanyas, The Duhks, The Wailin' Jennys. I bought this CD because I'd heard the Jennys compared to the Tanyas, and they're definitely just as good, if not better. They all have wonderful voices, and I love hearing lyrics I can identify with.

FIRECRACKER.......2007-07-05

This is a wonderful record.

The Jennys have an otherwordly ability to harmonize. Their voices weave beautifully together. I really hope this record gets the recognizition and air play it deserves. Standout tracks are Glory Bound, Starlight, This Heart Of Mine and Things That You Know, but ALL of the songs shine.

One of the Best Albums I've Heard in a While!.......2007-05-25

Usually, when I purchase a CD, there are a couple of songs that I skip whenever I listen to it. Not this one. Every single song is highly enjoyable. Lovely lyrics, beautiful harmony vocals, quality musicianship -- Firecracker has it all.

the Wailin' Jennys Firecracker.......2007-05-23

I love the Wailin' Jennys.... what more can I say? The two cd's I have just make me very happy!!

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