Lovers Rock [SACD]

Track Listings

1. By Your Side

2. Flow

3. King of Sorrow

4. Somebody Already Broke My Heart

5. All About Our Love

6. Slave Song

7. Sweetest Gift

8. Every Word

9. Immigrant

10. Lover's Rock

11. It's Only Love That Gets You Through

Editorial Reviews
Amazon.com
Sade's brand of elegant pop/R&B owned the charts in the '80s, making the Nigerian/British chanteuse one of those artists whose very name becomes the adjective to describe their sound. After an eight-year layoff, Sade and her core band (and longtime producer Mike Pela) are back with a CD that is both a stunning reaffirmation of her artistry and a solid soulful collection. Perhaps the best thing that can be said about Lovers Rock is that it picks up where Sade left off, which means you will hear no cool beats or hot hired hands or hip-hop cameos. This is Sade music, and on the first single, "By Your Side," she glides back into the spotlight on gentle, countryish, sparse wings--singing, once again, about love's power to redeem. Of course, Sade knows that love can stink: listen to the dub-riddim-tinged "Every Word" and cry tears of recognition. Decidedly female but utterly universal, grown up yet not hardened, Lovers Rock ranks as one of the best of the year, and marks the return of a true original. --Amy Linden

Lovers Rock,Sade,Sony,Adult Contemporary,Pop,R&B,Sophisti-Pop,Urban

Lovers Rock [SACD]

Tracks:

Happy Xmas (War Is Over)
What Child Is This? (Greensleeves)
River
Wintersong
I'll Be Home For Christmas
O Little Town Of Bethlehem
The First Noel/Mary Mary
Silent Night
Song For A Winter's Night
Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas
In A Bleak Mid-Winter
Christmas Time Is Here

Amazon.com

An album like this could cement Sarah McLachlan as a middle-of-the-road crooner ready for the Andy Williams Christmas Show, but there's more beneath the surface of Wintersong than just Christmas chestnuts, over-roasting on an open fire. Longtime McLachlan producer Pierre Marchand blurs the borders with ambient sound effects, distorted guitars, and subtle echoes. He adds a Mark Isham-esque muted trumpet solo emerging out of reverse echoes on "I'll Be Home for Christmas" as if viewing the song through a distorted mirror. Violins that sound like they're being blown through a Leslie speaker combine unpredictably with a banjo on "O Little Town of Bethlehem." And on the seventh song, McLachlan finally kicks the album into another gear, turning "The First Noël" into a storming entreaty backed by tribal drums and surging low strings. Her voice is like the serene angel amidst the raging storm. I wish McLachlan had taken more chances like this, instead of the subtle framing she employs around melodies that remain true to form. Surprisingly, the more contemporary songs by John Lennon, Joni Mitchell, and Gordon Lightfoot are the least inventive. Her reading of Mitchell's incandescently wistful "River" is overly faithful to the original, and Lennon's "Happy Xmas (War Is Over)" sounds like karaoke, right down to the Spector-esque production and children's choir. But given that Lennon's prayer for peace still remains unanswered, that fidelity could be intentional. Regardless, this is familiar Christmas fare delivered in an intimate and ethereal fashion that will satisfy those who believe in the nostalgic spirit of the season. --John Diliberto

More from Sarah McLachlan

Mirrorball: The Complete Concert

Surfacing

Fumbling Towards Ecstasy

Afterglow

VH1 Storytellers: Sarah McLachlan (DVD)

Solace

Customer Reviews:

At Her Best.......2007-07-06

Sarah McLachlan has the voice of an Angel. And this cd proves it. I fell in love with every song. And listened to it so much, I thought I was going to wear it out. She brings to her music, the wonderful feeling of the Christmas Season, as well as some of the greats from the past like Bing Crosby. Her voice is haunting and peaceful at the same time. She draws you into every song and leaves you wanting more. This cd will be a favorite of mine for many many years to come. When I think of Christmas, I'll think of Sarah.

Heart-full sound.......2007-07-05

This music is soulful year round. Even in the summer I listen to the beautiful soul sound of this CD. It's melody at its highest!

Christmas in July.......2007-06-26

Usually about this time every year I'm wishing it was Christmas, and listening to some Christmas music or watching some silly Christmas movie. This year I have Sarah's Wintersong to listen to during my "Christmas blues".

After several listens, I'd have to say that this isn't just another Christmas album. The album has many stand out tracks and is a mix of the traditional and the more modern. My favorites are River (which is Joni Mitchell's song) and Wintersong (a new song Sarah wrote herself).

A worthwhile album and one any fan of Sarah's should add to their collection.

It's always Christmas morning with Sarah.......2007-06-12

I was wondering when Sarah McLachlan was gonna come out with a Christmas album. I was waiting and waiting for it and now here it is and it is everything that all Sarah fans enjoy about her.
Touching and tender and superb in its vocal and sound arrangements. It evokes a Christmas from some other time. Especially haunting is track # 9: Song for a Winter's Night. It's full of pining and it reads like a poem.
Wrapping it all up is a gift fit for Christmas: Diana Krall. Although she doesn't sing, she plays the piano, and you can tell.
Definitely one for those who love XMAS music and for those who love Sarah. You can't go wrong.

What a great artist.......2007-05-16

Sarah McLachlan has really hit the mark with this CD. Her voice is always like a angel and this christmas compilation is no exception. Turn on the christmas lights and crank this up. Peace on Earth!

Average customer rating:

Good Stuff
Lovers Rock, Welcome Back to Cocktail Time!
Sade
A Good Forgiveness Gift :)
Touch of easy

Lovers Rock
Sade
Manufacturer: Sony
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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The Best of Sade
Love Deluxe
Stronger Than Pride
Diamond Life
Promise

ASIN: B000051VWW
Release Date: 2000-11-14

Tracks:

By Your Side
Flow
King Of Sorrow
Somebody Already Broke My Heart
All About Our Love
Slave Song
The Sweetest Gift
Every Word
Immigrant
Lovers Rock
It's Only Love That Gets You Through

Amazon.com

Sade's brand of elegant pop/R&B owned the charts in the '80s, making the Nigerian/British chanteuse one of those artists whose very name becomes the adjective to describe their sound. After an eight-year layoff, Sade and her core band (and longtime producer Mike Pela) are back with a CD that is both a stunning reaffirmation of her artistry and a solid soulful collection. Perhaps the best thing that can be said about Lovers Rock is that it picks up where Sade left off, which means you will hear no cool beats or hot hired hands or hip-hop cameos. This is Sade music, and on the first single, "By Your Side," she glides back into the spotlight on gentle, countryish, sparse wings--singing, once again, about love's power to redeem. Of course, Sade knows that love can stink: listen to the dub-riddim-tinged "Every Word" and cry tears of recognition. Decidedly female but utterly universal, grown up yet not hardened, Lovers Rock ranks as one of the best of the year, and marks the return of a true original. --Amy Linden

Customer Reviews:

Good Stuff.......2007-05-20

Four stars because only four tracks stand out for me, By Your Side, Somebody Already Broke My Hart, All About Our Love and Lovers Rock, plus all about our love is to short(2.40). But, she is more than five stars as an artist.

Lovers Rock, Welcome Back to Cocktail Time!.......2007-05-14

I have enjoyed Sade's music since the early 1980's and have enjoyed it ever since! Every song takes me down memory lane and echoes of those long forgotten lounge singer's of the 1940's-50's. If asked which is my favorite I can highly recommend BY YOUR SIDE. A powerfully moving title of the greatest sense of TRUE LOVE that today's music is sorely missing.

Sade.......2007-01-30

This cd is great to sit and relax and maybe do some light reading. It also sets the mood when you and your significant other want to heat things up! Very Enjoyable!

A Good Forgiveness Gift :).......2007-01-11

I borrowed 'Lover Rock' from my father years ago and played it over and over again till it got scratched up! He would always ask for me to return it and I always promised I would. Then last Christmas Eve of 2006, after buying toys for my niece's kids I decided as I walked into 'Virgin Records' to buy 'Lovers Rock' & 'Love Deluxe' as a gift to both my parents as a way to say I'm sorry and I love you. . .unfortunately my Dad was in Florida on Christmas Day (a Monday) but when he returned that weekend I made him open the gift over the phone - he was so surprise!!! Everytime I see "By Your Side" the music video and catch the part of elderly couple dancing togerther with Sade in the snow - I think of my parents:)

Touch of easy.......2006-11-23

Everything can be wrong wrong wrong, Sade makes it all better better best.
Lovers Rock is a bandaid for the soul, a soft touch on Sunday morning and easy listening on Friday afternoon.
Buy it! If you enjoy bittersweet lyrics, melodies with a beat, swing with a hint of jazz you will be satisfied.

Average customer rating:

one of my Top 3
bought Sad Songs...after to listening to "alligator" 1,000 times.
absolutely amazing
Masterminds
A great discovery

Sad Songs for Dirty Lovers
The National
Manufacturer: Brassland Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music

Indie Rock | Indie & Lo-Fi | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music

Chamber Pop | Indie & Lo-Fi | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music

Alt-Country & Americana | Country | Styles | Music

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Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music
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ASIN: B0000C8AOY
Release Date: 2003-09-02

Tracks:

Cardinal Song
Slipping Husband
90-Mile Water Wall
It Never Happened
Murder Me Rachael
Thirsty
Available
Sugar Wife
Trophy Wife
Fashion Coat
Patterns of Fairytales
Lucky You

Album Description

For a band that's been compared to Joy Division, Leonard Cohen, Wilco, and Nick Cave & the Bad Seeds, the National sure sounds a lot more like the Czars or Uncle Tupelo on this sophomore album Sad Songs for Dirty Lovers. The band focuses on slow atmospheric songs, it's when it kicks out the jams that the music is the most compelling.. With so many influences rearing their heads and ample musical chops in the bag, the National might not be masters of any one genre, but it creates a fine amalgam nonetheless. Brassland. 2003.

Customer Reviews:

one of my Top 3.......2007-05-03

The first song is low...talks about personal weakness and how to hide your feelings from another. Mentions strangers ("you're just another one of them"), death and unknown men.

The second is completely different, in tone, in tempo. Full of energy & screams. Talks about being lonely ("she's lonely, man"), ghosts, haunted ("by an important life you could have led").. OK, same doleful content, but a lot more upbeat and forms a beautiful contrast to the first song.

I highly recommend this band because it's not typical Alt Country. No. Beautiful violins--it's more like a combination of continental classical mixed in with heartfelt American art-nouveau. Allez-y et achetez-le.

bought Sad Songs...after to listening to "alligator" 1,000 times........2006-11-12

If you have listened to "Sad songs..." once it may not click, but it'll whet your music curiousity. I have to say it, although cliche, it is The National's "The Wall". Pieced toghether song by song with a purpose. One of my best listening experiences ever was playing "sad songs..." and "Cherry Tree" at high volume in my living room with a nice glass of Sapphire and ice.
I laughed, I cried, and caught a good buzz...
You should buy this album if you like true musical talent and thoughtful, intellegent lyrics. This album reverberates on another level.
Buy this album, or Cherry Tree, or Alligator, love it, then go see them live.

absolutely amazing.......2005-11-27

Songs 2 through 9 are some of the best stuff The National has done. Slipping Husband lodges in your head and refuses to leave. I kind of wish it had been the first track on the record. Cardinal, Track 1, has 3 am feel that seems misplaced as the first song but who cares this CD has Husband, Murder Me Rachel, 90 mile water wall (best title ever) etc...

Masterminds.......2005-10-28

Excellent band. Saw them live somewhere in europe a couple years ago and wasn't impressed. Man have they evolved. Buy it, become a better person.

A great discovery.......2004-12-13

The title of this album is misleading. It could be called Funny Songs for Angry Lovers ....or Dirty Songs for Sad Lovers....lyrically, the songs explore different sides of relationships and there is a lot of levity..... song titles like Trophy Wife and Sugar Wife make me think the album title may be intended as a joke. Though who can say. Whatever the case, this is an interesting, intense album.

There are quiet acoustic and electronic ballads like the frst song Cardinal Song and one of the last, Patterns of Fairytales ....but also totally blistering, raging rock songs like Murder Me Rachael and Available. I am partial to the latter....but I think they wouldn't be as effective without the quiet, beautiful moments. As far as influences, there are some hints of americana in the Wilco sense in spots (like 90 Mile Water Wall) but also Joy Division in other songs like Available. I was turned onto the National by a friend who is also a fellow Nick Cave fanatic, but I can't really compare them to any specific Cave era or album. I am more reminded at times of Leonard Cohen and even Silver Jewsand Wilco.

Average customer rating:

Dream: Song playing at the end of Entourage Season 4 Episode 49 "The Day Fu*kers"
Only for the bold.......
the best
We Need More Like Ya!
Even better live

For Lovers, Dreamers & Me
Alice Smith
Manufacturer: Bbe / Beat Gen
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music

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Back to Black
Balls
Every Waking Moment
Choklate
Citizen Cope

ASIN: B000FUIV3I
Release Date: 2006-09-05

Tracks:

Dream
Woodstock
Gary Song
New Religion
Do I
Fake Is The New Real
Desert Song
Know That I...
Secrets
Love Endeavor

Album Description

Alice Smith is an uncategorizable and rare artist whose commanding 4-octave voice lets her skip across genres effortlessly and transport you along with it.

Customer Reviews:

Dream: Song playing at the end of Entourage Season 4 Episode 49 "The Day Fu*kers".......2007-08-04

Hope this track finds people looking for it, this is the song playing at the end of Episode 49 when E meets up with Heather and Turtle watches Drama and Chelsea get furry. Then end credits.
The HBO show Entourage over the last 4 seasons has played some diamond in the rough tracks. This is a perfect example, Alice Smith's song Dream has soulful, smooth, and jazzy beats she definitely has a unique sound.
Dream, thankfully is available on itunes individually or you can get the whole cd For Lovers, Dreamers and Me there as well. Also available online for download at Rhapsody and Emusic. This is available in stores don't know why it's not on Amazon.
You can find more information on Alice smith on her website AliceSmithdotcom.

Only for the bold..............2007-06-02

who dares not to listen to the crappy songs on the radio. This child has a voice that needs appraisal. Her artform is pure creative. This album is a must have.

the best.......2007-05-13

This album so rocks. best thing i've bought in ages.
Alice Smith is off the corner, singing her guts out,
talk about beautiful!

We Need More Like Ya!.......2007-04-26

Every once in a while, someone steps onto the musical scene and delivers something fresh, hot, and worthy of praise. Alice Smith's "For Lovers, Dreamers, & Me" is not D'Giorno-- it's that delivery.

Honestly, the album's first track made me not want to give it a chance. It seemed so generic. That was the only stumbling block on an otherwise smooth jog to musical pleasantry. Even the album's cover art is refreshing. Bottom line-- finding good, new music is rare. Don't let this one pass you by.

Even better live.......2007-04-14

I happened to be at a Citizen Cope show and Alice Smith was opening. I had never heard of her, but was completely blown away. She was better than the main act. By the 2nd song my friend and I had both purchased this CD from the little booth at 9:30 club. I gotta be honest the CD is great but it pales in comparison to seeing her live. She is absolutely incredible, go see her if you have a chance.

Average customer rating:

good stuff...
Simply The BEST!
A Listener's Delight!!!!
A Must Have for Reggae Fans
Simply The Best

Best of Me
Maxi Priest
Manufacturer: Virgin Records Us
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Dance Hall | Reggae | International | Styles | Music

General | Reggae | International | Styles | Music

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Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music
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Bonafide
Man with the Fun
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2 the Max
The Very Best of UB40 1980-2000

ASIN: B000002URX
Release Date: 1992-06-29

Tracks:

Wild World
In The Springtime
Should I
Close To You
How Can We Ease The Pain
Let Me Know
Housecall
Just A Little Bit Longer
Caution
Some Guys Have All The Luck
I Know Love
Strollin' On
Best Of Me
Crazy Love
Woman In You
Peace Thoughout The World

Customer Reviews:

good stuff..........2006-07-05

i was going through my cd collection and realized that i didn't have this cd--- it had gone missing... i had to replace it. it's got some great tunes on there and i didn't want to forget the memories associated with them.

Simply The BEST!.......2005-11-29

I am just now discovering Maxi Priest (maybe due to the fact that when he came out I was around 2 years old) anyway...I really enjoyed this album. What I really like about Maxi Priest (besides his incredible looks) is his voice. He has a very pure, smooth and sexy voice that is just suited for love songs.

Standout tracks on this album in IMO are: Wild World (really nice beat, nice lyrics), How Can We Ease The Pain, Housecall (Shabba!), I Know Love, Best Of Me and of course the song that made him a international star, Close To You.
So, if you are a fan of "Lite" reggae, lovers rock, etc. Then this is the album for you.

A Listener's Delight!!!!.......2005-10-10

I really enjoy this album. All the tracks are well produced, well performed, and well written. Initially, I bought the album because I really really liked the track, Housecall, which Maxi did with Shabba. To my pleasant suprise, there were even more songs on the album which I found to be real listening delights. My favourite tracks turned out to be:
*Wild World
*In The Spring Time
*Should I
*Close to You (Loooove this!!)
*Housecall(my favorite)
*Just a Little Bit Longer
*Caution
*Some Guys Have All the luck
*Woman in You
*Crazy Love

This album is clearly a MUST HAVE for the REAL music lover!!!

A Must Have for Reggae Fans.......2004-05-26

This is an excellent album, how unfortunate that the song Goodbye To Love, was missing.
My favourites are Wild World, Close To You, House Call feat Shabbah, Some Guys Have All the Luck, and Woman In You.
All in all a must have album, if you are a Maxi Priest fan or simply a fan of reggae music.

Simply The Best.......2003-11-27

I still remember 14years back, when I was just crusing with my boyfriend around the island where I went to college , and he started playing the new tape he just bought earlier that afternoon. It was Maxi's and I was simply mesmerized by how 'Wild world' and 'Some guys have all the luck' sounded. I did not know anythinhg about reggae including Maxi back then but that was it! After I first heard 'Some guys have all the luck', I'd become one of the biggest reggae fans in the world in general and of Maxi Priest in particular. I try to take as many chances as possible to attend to his concert and trust me, as a Korean who currenltly lives in Korea, it ain't that easy.
Maxi is. to me, still the best and the most favorite of all time. Now that we have this CD which is a collection of just a few of his best songs from vintage to contemperary, you will be more than satisfied. Scank, groove or just chill out with it.
The whole CD is full of joy and the spirit of Rastafari!!!

Tracks:

Kizza Me
Thank You Friends
Big Black Car
Jesus Christ
Femme Fatale
O, Dana
Holocaust
Kangaroo
Stroke It Noel
For You
You Can't Have Me
Nightime
Blue Moon
Take Care
Nature Boy
Till The End Of The Day
Dream Lover
Downs
Whole Lotta Shakin' Goin' On

Amazon.com

By the mid-'70s, Alex Chilton's glistening pure-pop group Big Star had hit the rocks, ignored by the public and beset by internal problems. Chilton, backed mostly by session musicians playing both rock and chamber-music instruments, responded with this wracked, bizarre collection of deeply personal songs, venting oblique visions of terror (the much-covered "Kanga Roo" and "Holocaust"), sarcastically envisioning an imaginary circle of supporters ("Thank You Friends"), and covering the odd rock & roll classic in his messed-up teen-idol voice. The album was eventually abandoned and released in unfinished form years later, but the weird gaps in its arrangements make it even stranger and more powerful. --Douglas Wolk

Customer Reviews:

deserves it status as a classic........2007-02-26

a beautifully weird record, big star's "third/sister lovers" is full of magic. rockers, ringing guitar chords, gentle piano touches, chaotic piano banging, string quartet flourishes, spirited saxophone, percussion that at times sounds like things simply bumping into each other, a whole hodge-podge of sound. completely wonderful. my favorite five tracks: "thank you friends," a great melodic anthem of a song, the whole thing, backing vocalists and all, swelling to a heartpounding finish. "big black car," a song filled with quiet beauty, a slightly off-kilter melody that drifts along in a dreamy soundscape. "o, dana," a great tune with a wistful bouncy melody. "holocaust," slow and chilling, the darkest piece on the record. a completely harrowing glimpse at someone's self-destruction. and finally, "nightime," a gorgeous psychedelia-tinged ballad. all 14 tracks of the original album are fine, the five i mentioned are classics, not to be missed. the cd version includes four bonus tracks which do nothing for the original release and really should not have been included. a classic album, that deserves the place it has carved out in rock history.

Depressing .......2007-02-15

After listening to #1 Record/Radio City, this album is just depressing. That may be the intended or unintended point of Third, but that is not what attracts me to music. Some of the songs, such as Kizza Me and a few others, seem like a waste of space, and the best song on here, Till the End of the Day, is not even a Big Star song. Also, the inclusion of Whole Lotta Shakin' Going On is completely pointless. There are a few good moments, and the album would have been a lot better if the length had been cut in half. In general, Third has absolutely no direction and is a cult classic simply because it is the product of a crazy, albeit influential, guy in a band on the verge of collapse. By far Big Star's worst album.

Best Big Star - start here.......2006-10-01

I burned Big Star's first two records from a friend and felt incredibly disappointed. While I had huge expectations from reviews I'd read and talking to a few people, I was sorely disappointed. I thought the songs were often great, but I didn't get what the big deal is. In my opinion, the only songs that didn't sound derived from Byrds/Beatles rock sounded a bit crappy - especially the rockier stuff. I can understand why people like the stuff, but other than "September Gurls" it wasn't for me. I wrote them off as a good but overrated band.

Then I heard songs like "Big Black Car," "Kangaroo," "Take Care" and "Holocaust" and could barely believe my ears at the gorgeous, tired melancholy. If you want slick production or want more of the old Big Star, this is not your thing, but I prefer my productions a bit ragged at times because it ups the emotional factor. There are only a couple of songs here that don't strike me as perfect, most notably the POINTLESS inclusion of "Whole Lotta Shakin' Goin' On." But ignoring that, I think that it may be one of the best albums ever. The amount of influence this has had on modern music can not be underrated. If the early Big Star did not impress you (or even if it did), please give this one a try.

Yes, Big Star is brilliant but..........2006-08-20

The fact is that this album is totally hit and miss. For every brilliant 5-star ahead of its time song (Holocaust, Thank You Friends, Oh Dana) there is an equally bizarre, poorly recorded song. I would unhesitatingly recommend this album for the songs that are deathless, but even a psycho Big Star fan like myself has to admit that this album is full of half-formed ideas, experiments, and poor production. However, having said that, I would once again say that the good songs on the album are AMAZING and the album as a whole (weirdness included) is still leagues better than 95% of the music that's out there. Big Star are absolutely amazing, even as they're disintigrating.

"Take Care Not To Hurt Yourself".......2006-06-13

Alex Chilton is one of rock's most fascinating mysteries wrapped in an enigma. He has been worshipped by Paul Westerberg to the point of having a song written about him. According to a man I spoke to in a bar - a highly articulate, well-informed, and obviously intelligent man - Chilton was a janitor somewhere in Tennessee not too long ago. Most recently, this New Orleans resident was reported missing in the wake of Hurricane Katrina. Fortunately, the reports of his possible demise were exaggerated. Musically, he was the teenage vocalist on the classic #1 single "The Letter", the unlikely producer for The Cramps, and a major influence on the folky, cryptic alternative rock of R.E.M., the trashier rock of The Replacements, and the more straightforward power pop of Teenage Fanclub. (And that's just to cite the ones who are keen enough to know that they were influenced by him and his band.)

Although Big Star is thought of as the quintessential American power pop band, you would never know it from their third CD, which I will hereafter refer to as Sister Lovers, because I like that title better. Granted, the disc contains "Thank You Friends", which is in the tradition of their classic "September Gurls". (Neither of which are, in my opinion, as perfect as the greatest power pop song ever, "Shake Some Action" by The Flamin' Groovies, who are also a strong candidate for the quintessential American power pop band.) Apart from that, almost all of the songs on Sister Lovers are stark affairs, ones which stick in your head not because they are catchy but because they're haunting. The range of the band's - or just Chilton's, as the case may be - are indicated nicely by the covers on the record, which include the sparse "Nature Boy" (made famous by Nat "King" Cole), an even slower (and French-flavored) version of The Velvet Underground's "Femme Fatale", and a spirited take on "Till the End of the Day" by The Kinks (which they start off with the opening riffs to The Who's "Anyway, Anyhow, Anywhere"). Chilton is clearly the star of this CD, as he wrote all but one of the original songs. But drummer Jody Stephens gives him a run for his money with his single contribution, "For You". This track speaks as much for the tone and brilliance of Sister Lovers as any of Chilton's songs do.

There are a few weaker tracks, like "Kizza Me", "You Can't Have Me", and the cover of "Whole Lotta Shakin' Going On". If nothing else, at least they lighten the mood of the record a bit. The absence of Chris Bell, whose presence was so strongly felt on their debut #1 Record, may explain the lack of higher quality soul and power pop. (Bell had left the group in 1972, and was killed in a car crash in 1978.) However, this same absence allowed Chilton to make Sister Lovers the tormenting masterpiece that it is. This may have disappointed many Big Star fans, but the band was never obligated to be a pop group, and they had very little chance of coming out of this record intact anyway. Hence, the result is a record full of frightening tales of despondency, like the horrifically unsubtle "Holocaust" - "you're a wasted face/you're a sad-eyed lie/you're a holocaust" - and loneliness, like "Nighttime" - "I hate it here, get me out of here". Other songs seek comfort and salvation in whatever may offer it, be it driving ("Big Black Car"), religion ("Jesus Christ"), or love ("Blue Moon"). And that is hardly where the great songs end. The string-laden "Kangaroo", "Strike It Noel", and "Take Care" are all amazing and probably unlike anything you'll ever hear in popular music.

Given the anguished tone of the record, one does have to wonder - as many already have - if the triumphal sounding "Thank You Friends" is sincere or bitterly ironic. In this sense, it reminds me of The Kinks' song "All of My Friends Were There". While this also sounds celebratory, the lyrics indicate otherwise: "And just when I wanted no one to be there/All of my friends were there/Not just my friends, but there best friends too/All of my friends were there/To stand and stare". Alex, meanwhile, says "without my friends I got chaos". Well, if the remainder of the record is any indication, chaos is what he's got a lot of! Is Alex in fact friendless, or were the friends he had simply not there when he needed them to be?

Whatever the case, lonely is something that Alex Chilton will never be in the world of popular music, as evinced by a couple of tribute albums and dozens of artists who admire Big Star. Sister Lovers was a departure from the snap crackle pop of their first two records, but arguably even more ambitious and fully realized than either of them. But while it may be the masterpiece of the band called Big Star, it can't really stand as their most representative opus, as #1 Record and Radio City are just as essential. Alex Chilton once said that he felt that he was joining Chris Bell's band when he became a member of Big Star, and that Bell was the biggest Anglophile in Memphis. With Bell's departure, Big Star clearly became Chilton's band. Thus, Sister Lovers might more accurately be his personal masterwork, while remaining a fascinating piece of the Big Star puzzle.

Average customer rating:

First taste of Jonathan Richman
Boring
Absolutely Essential
Massachusetts When It's Late at Night
It grows on you

The Modern Lovers
The Modern Lovers
Manufacturer: Castle Music UK
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music

Proto Punk | Hardcore & Punk | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music

General | Pop | Styles | Music

Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music

General | Rock | Styles | Music

Singer-Songwriters | Contemporary Folk | Folk | Styles | Music

Alternative Rock | Imports | Stores | Music

Rock | Imports | Stores | Music
Similar Items:

Suicide (First Album)
Rock 'n' Roll With the Modern Lovers
L.A.M.F.: The Lost '77 Mixes
Jonathan Richman & the Modern Lovers
New York Dolls

ASIN: B0000A5BUA
Release Date: 2003-08-05

Tracks:

Roadrunner
Astral Plane
Old World
Pablo Picasso
She Cracked
Hospital
Someone I Care About
Girlfriend
Modern World
Dignified & Old
I'm Straight
Government Center
I Wanna Sleep in Your Arms
Dance With Me
Someone I Care About [Alternative Version][Alternate Take]
Modern World [Alternative Version][Alternate Take]
Roadrunner [Alternative Version][Alternate Take]

Album Description

2003 reissue of 1976 classic, that's unavailable domestically, features 17 tracks including 8 bonus tracks, 'Dignified & Old', 'I'm Straight', 'Government Center', 'I Wanna Sleep In Your Arms', 'Dance With Me', 'Someone I Care About' (Alternative Version), 'Modern World' (Alternative Version), & 'Roadrunner' (Alternative Version). Includes slipcase & foldout sleeve with extensive liner notes, photos & other memorabilia. Castle.

Album Details

The First Formal Album of the Modern Lovers Resulted from Sessions Helmed by Former Velvet Undergrounder John Cale. Out of it Came the Classic Songs "Pablo Picasso", "Astral Plane" and "Roadrunner", Now Staples of Garage Bands Round the World in their Two Or Three Chord Glory. It was the World's First Introduction to the Childlike Genius of Jonathan Richman and Co-horts Jerry Harrison (Who Went on to Talking Heads) and David Robinson (Who Sped off with the Cars). This 2003 Edition Includes Six Bonus Tracks and the Orginal Cover Art.

Customer Reviews:

First taste of Jonathan Richman.......2007-04-11

Modern Lovers recipe: take 1 part Velvet Underground + 1 part Violent Femmes. Blend. It really is a shame that Jonathan Richman and the the Modern Lovers never got the wide audience or even the same cult following thier predecessors (the VU) or their followers achieved (their influence on the Violent Femmes, TMBG, and Weezer is evident immediately). Their debut album catches this unique band at their loudest & rawest. The bonus tracks on this new printing are great songs, too. Disc standouts: Roadrunner, Old World, She Cracked, Hospital, Government Center, I'm Straight.

Boring.......2007-01-05

I enjoy alternative music, rock, pop, opera, classical,foreign and all that jazz. When it comes to music I enjoy, it must have a few minor musical qualifications. However, this cd I believe is lacking in any musical quality. No talent could save this band from themselves. Having the singers actually stay on pitch might help, but even this is doubtful. Usually for music that is a must, but obviously the "rebelious" nature is still clinging around the band. This ridiculous notion of "bad lyrics" has brought this group to rise into the American conciousness. Unfortunately, it sounded like a terrible recording of garage band quality, and I am still getting over the emotional damage. All joking aside, this "music" should be avoided at all costs! It was boring, I wasted my hearing on it, so I'm warning everyone else so they won't make the same mistake.

Absolutely Essential.......2006-12-17

I'm a man of many words, yet this album leaves me speechless. I discovered it over 17 years ago, when I learned that both the Sex Pistols' Road Runner and the Burning Sensation's Pablo Picasso were written by the same person: Mr. Jonathan Richman. I wasn't prepared for the emotional honesty from The Modern Lovers, it was unlike anything I had ever heard before. Jonathan Richman sang about the things he loved: old buildings, art, neon signs, girls, and of course, driving down the highway with the radio on. It changed my life, hearing that record. I no longer saw rebellion as a reaction to norms, but as positive steps toward an independent future. To sum up this album by it's intellectual and spiritual impact sell it short. This album is a raw, ragged album, that sounds way ahead of it's time. "I'm Straight" is so upfront and naked, it makes Morrisey and his ilk seem like guarded, cranky souls. There aren't many albums that can have as much an impact as this one. If you don't own it, you're missing out on one of the true unheralded classics of rock and roll. Listen; and fly into the mystery.
PS
Thirteen years ago I wrote a fan letter to Jonathan Richman's record company, and two months later he sent me a hand-written postcard. And about four years ago, when I saw him in Memphis Tennessee, I drunkenly blubbered to him after a show, that I admired him. He grabbed my hand, asked me my name, and said, "Tim, I care about how you feel." I know...I know...Sounds gay, but the guy was so cool and earnest that I was left speechless. I left almost immediately after some pleasantries because I didn't want to spoil the moment. Just a terrific artist and human being.

Massachusetts When It's Late at Night.......2006-09-09

One of the greatest LP's ever recorded. If you don't get it you're already dead. If so, go listen to Journey and do us all a favor and kill yourself. It's mind-boggling to think it's out of print in the US. The Castle CD version is worth it just for the liner notes alone.

It grows on you.......2006-08-01

My friend gave me this album and I love it. I thought it was funny, kind of silly at first, but the more I listen to it, the deeper the lyrics seem to get. Its a really complete album, mixing some punk elements with some rockabilly, and then theres the jams like "hospital" and "girlfren" which are amazingly beatiful. The vocals are in a class of their own because they're so unique. Its a must have for any classic rock fan.

Average customer rating:

Five Stars
reggae greats

Jonny Greenwood Is the Controller

Manufacturer: Sanctuary Trojan Us
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music

Dub | Reggae | International | Styles | Music

General | Reggae | International | Styles | Music

Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music
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Sound of Silver
The Good, the Bad & the Queen
Volta
Pocket Symphony
We Were Dead Before the Ship Even Sank

ASIN: B000MTPA9A
Release Date: 2007-03-06

Tracks:

Dread Are the Controller - Linval Thompson
Let Me Down Easy - Derrick Harriott
I'm Still in Love [12" Mix] - Marcia Aitken
Never Be Ungrateful [12" Mix] - Gregory Isaacs
Bionic Rats - Lee "Scratch" Perry
Cool Rasta - The Heptones
Flash Gordon Meets Luke Skywalker - Jammy, Roots Radics, Scientist
Black Panta - Lee "Scratch" Perry & the Upsetters, Lee "Scratch" Perry, Lee "Scratch" Perry & the Upsetters,
Fever - Junior Byles
Beautiful and Dangerous - Desmond Dekker, Desmond Dekker
Dread Dub - Lloyd's All Stars
Gypsy Man - Marcia Griffiths
Ruffer Version - Johnny Clarke, Johnny Clarke
Right Road to Dubland - Jahlights
Dreader Locks - Junior Byles, Junior Byles, Lee "Scratch" Perry
This Life Makes Me Wonder - Delroy Wilson
Clean Race - Scotty

Customer Reviews:

Five Stars.......2007-08-03

I love Radiohead. Loved the Bodysong soundtrack. Hell, I even love The Eraser. And while "Is the Controller" is obviously not a Radiohead album, it is a great statement by Greenwood. Each song on here is amazing and leaves me scurrying to find the actual albums from Trojan Records. If you are a fan of great music, give this a spin. It will be worth your while.

reggae greats.......2007-04-10

If you like old skool reggae "DUB" this cd is for if you. Guys put this in your car stereo to impress the ladies,light up a spliff and cruise. Classic reggae songs with lee "scratch" Perry, Delroy Wilson, Gregory Issacs, The Heptones, Desmond Dekker, Junior Byles, Johnny Clarke, Jahlights, Scientist & Jammy & and the Roots Radics, Marcia Aitkens, and Scotty. One Love
Time To Feel Irie
O Yeah
For those who dont know who Jonny Greenwood is he is the guitarist from that small unkown band Radiohead and he is the controller.

Can't Stop a Man: The Ultimate Collection

Average customer rating:

One of the best
Thank the good Lord for Beres Hammond
Lovers Rock
Highly Recommended..
Slammin'

Can't Stop a Man: The Ultimate Collection
Beres Hammond
Manufacturer: Vp Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Jamaica | Caribbean & Cuba | International | Styles | Music

Dance Hall | Reggae | International | Styles | Music

General | Reggae | International | Styles | Music

General | R&B | Styles | Music

General | Soul | R&B | Styles | Music

Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music
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Ultimate Collection
Ultimate Collection
Ultimate Collection
In Control
Welcome to Jamrock

ASIN: B0000D9PMW
Release Date: 2003-12-02

Tracks:

One Step Ahead
I'm So In Love
Last War
Groovy Little Thing
What One Dance Can Do
She Loves Me Now
Tempted To Touch
Putting Up Ressistance
Come Back Home
Full Attention
Who Say
Live On
Double Trouble
Step Aside
Love Means Never To Say you're Sorry
Show It Off
Doctor's Orders
My Wish
Sweetness
Sugar You Want

Tracks:

Preacher Man
Left Me Crying
I Could Beat Myself
No Disturb Sign
Can't Stop A Man
Love From A Distance
Sweet Lies
Call On The Father
Warriors Don't Cry
Queen & Lady
Hold on
Can You Play Some More (Pull It Up)
They Gonna Talk
Rockaway
Ain't It Good To Know
Come Down Father
Ain't That Loving You
Dancehall Vibes
Giving Thanks (Live)

Customer Reviews:

One of the best.......2007-04-06

Beres is truly a modern day Marin Gaye of carribean music, with a variety of flavor and different rythms. If you like reggae this is a must buy.

Thank the good Lord for Beres Hammond.......2006-09-10

Beres Hammond by far is the best when it comes to Lover's Rock. As a youngster, my generation is all too much infatuated with Reggae and know so little about it. If you say you know Reggae and the name Beres Hammond doesn't ring a bell then you DON'T KNOW REGGAE!!!! Beres has been such an inspiration to me. This Ultimate Collection is a must have for Reggae lovers.

May God continue to allow Beres Hammond to keep making music that touches people in so many ways.

Lovers Rock.......2006-01-24

If you are looking for a collection of songs based on love, reality and good vibes, this CD set is exactly what you need. With songs like "One Step Ahead" and "What one dance can do", you'll find that these tunes truly will groove your musical soul. The lyrics are easy to follow...and the sensuality of each song is coined in a very non-abrasive way.

Buy this collection today. You will NOT be disappointed!

Highly Recommended.........2006-01-01

This CD set contains the best of the Beres Hammond's songs! Beres is the next best thing since Bob Marley! What a sweet voice, intelligent & uplifting lyrics and a total positive vibe from this collection.

Slammin'.......2005-10-26

If you already know Beres then there is no need to explain if you don't know Beres you better recognize! The man is amazing!

Average customer rating:

Pick it up!
Awesome Album
lava ground
Lova This Album!
Great CD from Start to Finish

Lava Ground
I Wayne
Manufacturer: Vp Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Reggae | International | Styles | Music

Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

Welcome to Jamrock
Soul Deep
My Name Is Gyptian
Hail the King
Spice in Your Life

ASIN: B000A5DNBS
Release Date: 2005-08-23

Tracks:

Life Seeds
Lava Ground
Rastafari Liveth
More Life
Bleacher
Don't Worry
Mama and Papa
Nah Draw Nil
Touch Her Softly
Ready Fe Live Up
Kid Artist
Living in Love
Conquer - Fire Startrz, I Wayne
Can't Satify Her (Prelude)
Can't Satify Her
Grow Proper
Cool as the Breeze
Keep Burning Rome

Customer Reviews:

Pick it up!.......2007-01-04

This Cd is above average but not a classic. Half the tracks are skip-worthy but the ones that are good are GREAT. That's why I gave it four out of five. I-Wayne is very talented and he's got something we don't see very often..ORIGINALITY. He has a very unique voice and has well written songs. He doesn't compromise his Jamaican patois but at the same time it's easy to pick up on what he's saying. Best Tracks- Can't Satisfy Her(good message, good song, Living In Love and my personal favorite, More Life. One of the better songs in concious reggae in quite some time. CHECK IT OUT!!!

Awesome Album.......2006-09-30

Roots and culture artists have long been a constant in Jamaica, from the influence of legends like Bob Marley to conscious roots dancehall singers like Garnet Silk. However, in the summer of 2004 a new and powerfully distinct voice emerged on the reggae music scene. With a fresh timbre, substantive lyrics, and a passionate performance, this artist has almost single handedly lead the new wave of roots and culture reggae music that has swept the island of Jamaica.

I Wayne, born Cliffroy Taylor in Portmore, Jamaica, has officially hit the international scene with his ..1 hit Cant Satisfy Her. This humble, 24 year old, singer has been the first cultural reggae artist to be added to Hot 97 in New York, a station notorious for its hip hop influence. Since then the track has caught on in several markets and has entered the Billboard Hip Hop/R&B Singles charts. The firey tone of the track describes the desperate reality of prostitution, poverty, and sexually transmitted diseases in Jamaica. His follow-up single has once again taken the reggae world by storm. Riding on the top of the New York and Florida reggae charts for more than 7 weeks and counting, with Living in Love on the Hard Times Riddim (VP2272) produced by Stephen Gibbs and Errol Thompson, I Wayne has already proved himself to be a consistent hitmaker.

Although he has seemingly burst onto the scene, this young artist has been refining his craft since age 7. Coming from a musical family, I Wayne had first made his venture into performance as a student at Greater Portmore High School, joining a local group Vibes Machine. The group, consisting of singers and DJs, used to perform afterwork parties at popular clubs like Cactus and Asylum. One night, the artist was forced to perform alone due to the fact that the rest of his bandmates were running extremely late. The response was tremendous, and I Wayne was motivated to perfect his solo act. He later moved on to chant with local sound systems like Diamond Cruise and The Legend, and has contributed significantly to the annual event in his hometown, Garveymeade, held on December 24th for the past 10 years. With an admitted affinity for love songs that highlight his ethnicity, I Wayne has a unique ability to compose and commit to memory all material without ever writing down a word for the recording session.

In November of 2004, I Wayne signed a record deal with VP Records to release his debut album Lava Ground, which will be in stores summer of 2005. The album will include the two hit singles Cant Satisfy Her and Living in Love and the title track Lava Ground (which has already started to show up on some charts). His rise to the top of the reggae world is unprecedented, and has sparked a wave of enthusiasm among the industry for the next generation of roots and culture singers and songwriters.

lava ground.......2006-05-13

I am not one to write a review about a song but damn....Lava ground is a song that kind of made me have tears in my eyes and I don't really understand why it did that; I don't even understand the lyrics. I guess it just put me in a mood to reminisce or just think about the past. I guess its the melody and the beats that put me in that kind of mood. I would definetly buy the album just on the strengh of the song.

Lova This Album!.......2006-04-13

I Wayne is a unique singer. When I first heard him, I was taken by his smooth delivery and ability to ride the melody in the songs. Purchase this CD and you will not be disappointed. "Living In Love" is a masterpiece with profound lyrics. However, the whole CD is great, but has room for improvement. Real reggae lovers will appreciate this one. Yeah,Mon! Lava!

Great CD from Start to Finish.......2006-03-23

I Wayne's voice......the music, the stories. It is genuinely a start to finish CD. So very smoothe. The infamous hot track "Can't Satisfy Her" is a true reflection that this album has many great songs such as that one.....It's far from a "ONE HIT" album. It's a must for your reggae collection.

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