Vinyl

Editorial Reviews
Album Description
"Vinyl" is the new EP from the Mudhens and the first recording featuring the band's new line-up. The CD was produced by Anthony J. Resta (Collective Soul, Shawn Mullins, Duran Duran) and represents a new direction for the group. Vinyl sold over 500 copies on the first night it was available in Boston, and is garnering rave reviews from people who've known the band as well as new folks.

Richard Thompson - 1000 Years of Popular Music (2 CD & 1 DVD Set)
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • Jump in and savor!
  • 1000 Years of GREAT Popular Music
  • Thompson the alchemist turns poo to gold...
  • Absolute Magic
  • Finally a Thompson live DVD that really clicks
 Richard Thompson - 1000 Years of Popular Music (2 CD & 1 DVD Set)
Richard Thompson
Manufacturer: Cooking Vinyl
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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British FolkBritish Folk | Traditional British & Celtic Folk | Folk | Styles | Music
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Singer-SongwritersSinger-Songwriters | Contemporary Folk | Folk | Styles | Music
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Similar Items:
  1. Sweet Warrior
  2. RT: The Life and Music of Richard Thompson
  3. Front Parlour Ballads
  4. Richard Thompson - Live from Austin, TX
  5. Modern Times (Deluxe Edition With Bonus DVD)

ASIN: B000EHQ7I8
Release Date: 2006-06-27

Tracks:

  1. Sumer Is Icumen In
  2. King Henry
  3. So Ben Mi Ca Bon Tempo
  4. Bonnie St. Johnstone
  5. O Sleep Fond Fancy
  6. Remember O Thou Man
  7. O Shenandoah
  8. Blackleg Miner
  9. I Live In Trafalger Square
  10. There is Beauty In the Bellow of the Blast
  11. Java Jive

Tracks:

  1. Night and Day
  2. Orange Coloured Sky
  3. Drinking Wine Spo-Dee-Dee
  4. A-11
  5. See My Friends
  6. Friday On My Mind
  7. Tempted
  8. Oops!...I Did It Again
  9. Cry Me A River
  10. 1985
  11. Sam Hall

Amazon.com

As Richard Thompson explains in his typically droll annotation, 1000 Years of Popular Music came about after Playboy asked various musicians to rank their top ten songs of the millennium. While most dipped no farther back than a few decades--a century at most--Thompson's musical memory rose to the challenge. The result is this concert set's encapsulation of 22 songs that trace a musical progression from the Middle Ages through Britney Spears, with Judith Owen and Debra Dobkin providing spare instrumental and rich vocal support. Released as a concert DVD with two audio CDs, the selection is irrepressibly idiosyncratic, from rounds, madrigals, and British balladry that recall Thompson's early days in Fairport Convention through the music-hall singalong of "I Live in Trafalgar Square" to dips into the songbooks of the Kinks ("See My Friends"), Squeeze ("Tempted"), and Bowling for Soup ("1985"). Among the highlights are the soulful tenderness of the 17th century's "Bonnie St. Johnstone," a haunting "Shenandoah," a samba arrangement of Cole Porter's "Night and Day," and a deliriously rocking rendition of the Easybeats' "Friday on My Mind." --Don McLeese

Album Description

Single DVD with Two Audio CD's This latest Richard Thompson release, 1000 Years of Popular Music, actually contains songs from the 11th Century, miners songs and even…"Oops! I Did it Again!" All songs are performed by a trio, with Thompson on acoustic guitar and vocals, Debra Dobkin on percussion, and songstress Judith Owen adding vocals. "The idea for this project came from Playboy Magazine - I was asked to submit a list, in late 1999, of the ten greatest songs of the Millennium. Hah! I thought, hypocrites - they don't mean millennium, they mean twenty years - I'll call their bluff and do a real thousand-year selection. My list was similar to the choices here on this CD, starting in about 1068, and winding slowly up to 2001. That they failed to print my list among others submitted by rock's luminaries, is but a slight wound - it gave me the idea for this show, which has been performed occasionally, and will hopefully receive a few more airings. The idea is that Popular Music comes in many forms, through many ages, and as older forms get superceded, sometimes the baby is thrown out with the bathwater - great ideas, tunes, rhythms, styles, get left in the dust of history, so let's have a look at what's back there, and see if still does the trick. What appears on this CD is a performance, rather than a chronological, distillation of several different shows - hence some gaps in the 17th and 18th centuries, and too much weight on Music Hall and Rock & Roll - we just felt that some performances weren't quite captured - perhaps on Part Two?"

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Jump in and savor!.......2007-03-09

For all Richard Thompson fans this is a real treat. The vocals by Judith Owen and Debra Dobkin are great. Excellent all around!

5 out of 5 stars 1000 Years of GREAT Popular Music.......2007-01-04

I was invited to see this show at the Berklee Performance Center in Boston when it came to town. I'm a big Richard Thompson fan, but I wasn't sure if I would enjoy this "survey"of a thousand years of popular music. I needn't have worried. From start to finish, this is an entertaining, even startlingly entertaining show, and the people who filmed it did an excellent job of capturing it. Richard's guitar playing is terrific, and his singing is some of the best he's ever done, perhaps prompted by the demands of some of the material. Nothing here sounds pedantic, and nothing is boring. Richard's dry wit is in evidence throughout. The special treat is how much music comes out of three people, and here Richard is ably served by Judith Owen on vocals and occasional keyboard and Debra Dobkin on vocals and drums/percussion. One of the things I took away from the performance I saw was how INTO the music these three were on stage, and the DVD brings that right back.

I urge anyone who has gotten as far as considering this package to relax, stop considering it, buy it, and enjoy.

The package contains a DVD of the show and two CD's of the music, along with a short booklet about the show concept and the songs.

5 out of 5 stars Thompson the alchemist turns poo to gold..........2006-09-28

This project originated out of rejection. A true non-reflection of life if ever one existed. Once upon a time, Playboy coveted Thompson's list of "the millenium's best songs". That is, until they saw it. This list included such chart toppers as "Sumer Is Icumen In" from 1260, "King Henry V's Conquest of France" from the 15th century, "Blackleg Miner" from the 19th century, and the bizarre Nat King Cole swinger "Orange Colored Sky". Then reality inverted. One of the least curmudgeonly magazines greeted Thompson's list with an icy silence. Perhaps they felt that those musty old songs would clash with the eternal blaze of naked airbrushed youth? Unflinching, Thompson turned to an art older than some of this set's songs: Alchemy. He miraculously turned what Playboy construed as poo into gleaming bullion. This shaft truly led to gold. So much so that Thompson has hit the road with his "1000 Years of Popular Music" twice.

Music is dang old, after all. Greeks and Romans rocked out. Medieval madrigals, armed with lutes and windpipes, pranced through verdant forests. Even Victorians danced. So why relegate hundred of years of great tunes to the sadly cobwebbed "early music" section? You know what they say: old songs never die, they just receive damning new retail categories. In defiance, Thompson dipped into this neglected slush pile of human all too human music and constructed a millenium set list that would make the Long Now Foundation proud.

Flanked by vocalist/keyboardist, and part mime, Judith Owen and percussionist/vocalist Debra Dobkin, the Thompson-led trio jiggle cochleas through musical history. They open with one of humanity's oldest songs: "Sumer Is Icumen In". A celebration of the rebirth of spring, it also includes a middle english word for "fart". Now that's history. The group sing it as a round (during tour one of "1000 Years" Thompson sang it solo). Next, lone Thompson conjures up the events leading to the battle of Agincourt in a fifteenth century song. France-bashing apparently has a longer history than the 2003 U.S. Congress realized. "Freedom Toast" is nothing! Try Agincourt! This beautiful song retells the affront the French handed to the young King Henry V: three tennis balls for him to "play with". No king would take that. Henry didn't. Thompson then switches to Italian for the amazing "So Ben Mi Ca Bon Tempo". A truly unforgettable song that will even get feet encased in concrete tapping.

Following a few incredible songs dealing with infanticidal mothers, eternal punishment, and Missouri rivers, "Blackleg Miner" exposes the history of "scab" songs. Women won't even look at the Blacklegs. A nasty lot, indeed. Time whizzes by as the hilarious down-and-out "I Live in Trafalgar Square" and a Gilbert and Sullivan tune close out the nineteenth century. Don't miss the high "C" in the Mikado's "Bellow Of the Blast". Thompson and Owen show us just what vocal cords were made for. "Java Jive" introduces the jazzy twentieth century with a smooth pean to caffeinated drinks.

The twentieth century focuses on rock music, with a few exceptions. On the DVD, when Thompson introduces the act's single country song, "A-11", he responds to the unenthused stillness by saying "I can tell we're no longer in Texas". Some head turning surprises pop out in the second half of the set (on CD number two). The Kinks' haunting "See My Friends" and Australia's rollicking "Friday On My Mind" will make musical antennas erect. And then the evening's biggest blast, "Oops!... I Did it Again", made famous by Britney Spears, will shock those who disparage pop music as inane trash. Thompson proves beyond doubt that the song has merit. His final dance moves on the DVD justify the price alone. Prepare thy brain. Leaving Britney behind, the gang bursts into 2001 with "1985", a ridiculously catchy pop song about a sentimental and uncool mom. After that auditory explosion, Thompson leaves the audience hissing with the a capella "Sam Hall". The DVD's final scene shows Thompson waving his fists at the audience. A great closing to an amazing show. A thousand years later and we've arrived. That'll show Playboy.

This DVD and CD set captures the second "1000 Years" outing. Thompson's website offers a CD of the first tour. Enough changes from the two sets to justify getting both. But this set also contains a fabulously produced DVD. Thompson's stage banter gets cut from the CD, but the DVD preserves every word. Listen for the great joke about european stereotypes ("In heaven the English answer the door..."). The DVD also includes snatches of a Thompson interview, soundcheck, and the band's grand entrance. No Thompson fan should miss this set. Even people with a vague interest in music history should check it out. Thompson, now in his fifties, proves that age only encumbers the uncreative. "1000 Years of Popular Music" stands comfortably next to his best work. Not bad for a rejection.

5 out of 5 stars Absolute Magic.......2006-08-17

I've watched this show every night since it arrived three weeks ago. It's not just the excellent production, the sheer talent and huge versatility of the performers. This show has some magic ingredient. Utterly captivating.

5 out of 5 stars Finally a Thompson live DVD that really clicks.......2006-07-01

The first two Richard Thompson live dvd's were marred by slightly uninspiring song selections and fairly basic camera work. But third time's the charm - this lovely dvd presentation of Thompson's "1000 Years of Popular Music" show is simply one of the most essential items in his entire catalogue - along with "Henry the Human Fly", "I Want To See the Bright Lights Tonight", "Shoot Out the Lights", "The Old Kit Bag" and "Rumor and Sigh". And it's essential not only for Thompson fans, but for just about anyone who's interested in the history of popular music. Starting with old English folk song "Summer is a-cumming in" (which was also sung at the climax of 70s horror movie classic The Wicker Man), and ending with a version of "1985" (a download hit for the group Bowling for Soup a few months prior to this recording) and in between covering everything from English music hall, Gilbert & Sullivan, jazz standards and merseybeat - this is a wonderful selection of haunting songs. No, you won't find any of Richard Thompson's legendary electric guitar workouts on here, and you won't find any of his own songs, even though many of them could have matched the timeless quality of the great stuff that IS on here - but the dvd DOES manage to present Thompson as one of the most plain enjoyable live performers in the world. And it's all packaged in a lovely box with artwork, song notes and two bonus cd's. Now if only they'd do a presentation of Thompson's OWN song catalogue in this format - and that's a hint, in case any of the people responsible for this great set happen to be reading this.
'93-'03
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • It's gotta be 5 stars because its Frank Black, but overall I hate best of's
  • Best of the Best
 '93-'03
Frank Black
Manufacturer: Cooking Vinyl
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

GeneralGeneral | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music
Indie RockIndie Rock | Indie & Lo-Fi | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music
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Similar Items:
  1. Christmass
  2. Icky Thump
  3. Unbreakable: A Retrospective 1990-2006
  4. Era Vulgaris
  5. Beyond

ASIN: B000OV15I6
Release Date: 2007-06-26

Tracks:

  1. Los Angeles
  2. Ten Percenter
  3. Czar
  4. Old Black Dawning
  5. (I Want To Live On an) Abstract Plain
  6. Calistan
  7. Speedy Marie
  8. Headache
  9. Freedom Rock
  10. Men In Black
  11. You Ain't Me
  12. I Don't Want To Hurt You (Every Single Time)
  13. All My Ghosts
  14. I Gotta Move
  15. Bad Harmony
  16. Western Star
  17. Robert Onion
  18. Hermaphroditos
  19. Velvety
  20. California Bound
  21. Massif Centrale
  22. Manitoba
  23. Threshold Apprehension

Tracks:

  1. Deadman's Curve
  2. Raiderman
  3. My Terrible Ways
  4. I'll Be Blue
  5. Johnny Barleycom
  6. Ten Percenter
  7. Dog Gone
  8. The Swimmer
  9. Suffering

Album Details

2007 Issued Anthology of the Pixies Frontman's Solo Albums from his Eponymously Titled Solo Debut Thru "Show Me Your Tears".

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars It's gotta be 5 stars because its Frank Black, but overall I hate best of's.......2007-07-07

I am not one for many words... Frank Black is a genius there is no doubt about that. His Pixies records and solo stuff are great... but as always a best of does not do justice to an artist with such a range of songs. If I were you I wouldn't buy this compilation, but buy his solo stuff starting from the beginning with the self titled album and then if you like that grab the next album (teenager of the year) and so on.

The reviewer above quite rightly said that these songs take a while to sink in and appreciate. That's true for all of Frank's work... don't expect to put a Frank album on and immediately like it... give it 5 or so plays and the genius will hit you. Frank Black albums are special... buy them, not the best of!

5 out of 5 stars Best of the Best.......2007-06-29

Frank black is my favorite musician of all time. I've searched everywhere for those who truely have the gift of melody, and Frank Black takes the cake for my personal favorite. No one else consistantly writes interesting, extremely catchy songs in unique ways as well as this man.
God has truely given him a great gift. This Best of does not have all my favorite songs by him, and some of the selections on here are some of my least favorites (manitoba, i gotta move). However, this compilation is a great showcase of Frank's talent and how his styles have evolved. This is a great start for the uninitiated, and i would recommend it to anyone who loves guitar driven music. All of his songs are gems so of course this isnt really a "best of". One would have to listen to his whole collection for that. The bonus disc is great also for fans to hear some of his classics live. The tracks are in stark contrast to the accoustic selections of last years Christmass album. To all the unitiated though, i must warn you, as any fan would tell you, THE SONGS TAKE TIME TO DEVELOP in your brain. Every album of his i did not like at first. And then came the moment of clarity that would almost always bring tears to my eyes. I dont know how he does it, but this man is clearly gifted in a divine manner. I would call him a modern day Bob Dylan, but better, and less known, and certainly less appreciated.
The Walk
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • GREAT album
  • Hanson's Masterpiece
  • Never Would Have Thought
  • Best yet from Hanson
  • Hanson "The Walk"
 The Walk
Hanson
Manufacturer: Cooking Vinyl
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

GeneralGeneral | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Pop | Styles | Music
Pop RockPop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music
Teen PopTeen Pop | Pop | Styles | Music
Adult AlternativeAdult Alternative | Pop | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Rock | Styles | Music
Similar Items:
  1. Go, Pt. 1
  2. Hanson - At the Fillmore
  3. Go, Pt .2
  4. Middle of Nowhere
  5. This Time Around

ASIN: B000KRNF50
Release Date: 2007-05-29

Tracks:

  1. Intro (Ngi Ne Themba)
  2. Great Divide
  3. Been There Before
  4. Georgia
  5. Watch Over Me
  6. Running Man
  7. Go
  8. Fire On the Mountain
  9. One More
  10. Blue Sky
  11. Tearing It Down
  12. Something Going Round
  13. Your Illusion
  14. The Walk
  15. Got a Hold On Me
  16. I've Been Down
  17. Something Going Round

Album Description

Earlier UK release! 2007 album from Hanson, the adorable teen trio who have grown up into...an older adorable trio! This is their first release in nearly four years. Although the songs are heavier and more mature, the Hanson harmonies and knack for a catchy melody are still in evidence. 14 tracks. Cooking Vinyl.

Album Details

2007 Album from the Fraternal Trio from Oklahoma that was Co-produced with Veteran Producer Danny Kortchmar (Billy Joel, Don Henley, Carole King, James Taylor). "every Song on "The Walk" Has a Direct Tie to Something Or Someone We have a Passion For" Explains Taylor. "we Recorded These Songs in Our Tulsa Studio to Capture the True Energy and Spirit of What We were Feeling. It's Very Personal". By Releasing the Album (Like that Last One "Underneath") on their Own 3cg Imprint, They Act as their Own A&r Reps, Taking Full Responsibility for the Content...diy In the Truest Sense. The Song "Great Divide" was Released Exclusively on the Net with 100% of the Profits Going to the Perinatal Hiv Unit at Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital in Soweto, South Africa.

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars GREAT album.......2007-07-25

This is Hanson's best album yet. All their hard work and continued sincerity and integrity has paid off! If this is the result of them leaving the major label music business, then they truly made the right decision. The songs are beautifully well-written and crafted, and the variety of music on the album is stunning. It's rare that you hear such tight musicianship, as well as tight harmonies, paired along with honest lyrics that aren't at all trying to push the envelope of a Parental Advisory sticker. Hanson has perseverance and passion, and that is evident in every aspect of this record! Everyone should take a listen.

5 out of 5 stars Hanson's Masterpiece.......2007-07-16

The Walk is Hanson's masterpiece. Not since Radiohead's OK Computer has an album been such an experience from beginning to end. From the opening guitar riff and rush of piano on "The Great Divide" to the closing gorgeous title song, "The Walk," Hanson has weaved together an album that mixes rock, pop and gospel sounds in a body of work that tells a story. The brothers shine with their song writing on their heartbreaking first single, "Go," and the haunting lyrics on "Fire on the Mountain" and "Your Illusion."

The band's signature catchy hooks are prominent on their latest CD, most notably on the rock anthem "Tearing It Down" and "Blue Sky." Including Hanson's last two albums, This Time Around and Underneath, there is now absolutely no other contemporary band that possesses a song book with such consistent catchy hooks. They have elevated it to an art form and these talented brothers deserve to be heard, especially on the extraordinary achievement that is The Walk.

5 out of 5 stars Never Would Have Thought.......2007-07-12

I didn't get the import cd. I bought the actual album while in the UK... So, this is my review minus the Import bonus tracks...

OK, I'll be the first to admit that I was not a fan of Hanson in their "mmmbopp stage". However, they have now matured to a band that writes and plays not what other people want, but what they feel is right for them. I didn't know they were around any more until I saw their Great Divide music video on the tv. As I watched that video I had no idea who the band was, but I certainly had to find out. Much to my great surprise it was Hanson. I went back and bought their previous album Underneath and it was good, I liked most of the tracks.

Then when this album came out I had to check it out. Up to the release I downloaded the podcast from iTunes and watched their Underneath podcast which exposes the American Music Industry and the corruption that money has done. Then they had a podcast for The Walk which featured the making of just about every track. I kid you not, by watching this podcast I had a greater appreciation for all bands that wrote and played their own music.

Now about The Walk. This is an absolutely great album that I think a lot of people would like if they didn't know it was by Hanson. As a band they have such a negative stigma in America and if you liked them as a kid, well, you just didn't let anyone know. This album is completely different. I played some of the tracks for friends without telling them the artist and they loved it. When I told them it was Hanson they were blown away. I can listen to this album without skipping over any tracks.

**Great Divide** - Has a gospel feel to it without going too far. They incorporate the rock nicely with the guitar and drum beats that really pull everything together.

**Been There Before** - This is honestly my favorite track, it has an infectious beat that gets everyone moving their heads. Really great melodies and interesting lyrics.

**Georgia** - A typical track of sorts, but has an upbeat tempo that keeps you entertained.

**Watch Over Me** - This is just a great track lyrically. "She waits and takes her place in line, never bothers asking why. The mirror sheds no light at all. The days turn into lesser days until there's only night and light wouldn't help... she's too far gone." It is a song that everyone can relate to, everyone knows someone like that. A person that is stuck in a rut and daily seems to be going in the same direction. It would be a sad song, but Isaac has that gruff voice that strains in the high notes and makes into a bit of an alternative track.

**Running Man** - A "party track" as it says in the first couple seconds. Totally upbeat, not totally rock, but the vocals are excellent.

**Go** - Ok, there is a music video out about this one so I'll let you form your own opinion... YouTube it.

**Fire On the Mountain** - Powerful message and it isn't hidden, they put it out there and if you have any background in the subject you'll get it.... "We sit secure in time-honored traditions made. Never wondering where or when the Sickle may come. If we don't seek our knowledge to be greater men. When the rain Starts falling gonna drown before we get our feet wet."

**One More** - The piano ties holds this track together. A bit slower than most of the other tracks, except Go. However, it isn't that horribly slow mushy track. This one also has a great message.

**Blue Sky** - Comes in nicely after a slower track and is upbeat with a bit of the African choir that can be heard in Great Divide.

**Tearing It Down** - While Blue Sky had almost a painful note in the vocals this track is a bit more smooth. However, the track doesn't stop - you can always hear the drums and the guitar through everything.

**Something Goin' Round** -"Are you falling asleep at the wheel? Maybe there's a feeling you've been pushing off." ... "I've got this something thats been going round, you don't know it, but you need it now" I've said this about a few other tracks, but when you listen to this album in it's entirety you either get the underlying message 'cause you know it or "you don't know it, but you need it"... Great track, definitely upbeat.

**Your Illusion** - A slower track that somewhat tugs at the heart strings if you or someone you've known has been in the situation. It's about someone "wasting life" and wanting to commit suicide and "placing their blame on everyone else."

**The Walk** - The lyrics sum up the entire album. A bit slower track, mostly just vocals and a piano.

Great album altogether. I didn't put the lyrics to all the tracks because you can look them up. If you own the album already or are thinking about getting it look up the lyrics so you know what you're listening to. There is an underlying religious theme to this album. It doesn't come out and beat it over your head. As a matter of fact, you won't notice it unless you have a background in the chruch and to take it a step further - a deep background in Biblical passages. They don't come out and say anything or try to convert anyone, they're just writing about life, a life that everyone knows and lives. Does this take away from the album? Not at all, secular and non-secular alike are going to love this album...

If you like this album you might want to check out Jonny Lang's "Turn Around"... very upbeat, great vocals, and of course the guitar prodigy doesn't disappoint.

5 out of 5 stars Best yet from Hanson.......2007-07-10

Without a doubt this is the most amazing album recorded by this very talented group. Lots to think about in their lyrics and great vocals as always. Give this a listen. You won't be disappointed!

5 out of 5 stars Hanson "The Walk".......2007-06-28

The group Hanson's new album release "The Walk" works "in spades" as it spawns a flash-back - flash-forward style of music, lyrics and presentation that proves to be an existential combination of the best of creativity and multiplicity of worlds and multiple feelings. Their music makes sense. That ini itself is rare and unique! It is real yet edgy. Their music has meaning. And their music brings home a solid rock sense coupled with actual meaningful and identifiable, yep folks "identifiable", lyrics that allows you to be taken along with them on a ride through the minds and senses of their songs. The neat thing is that anyone, young or old who likes sound, hard-hitting, ground biting - good old rock and roll music will appreciate this straight forward presentation. Their music simply and honestly plays well...... extraordinarily well...... to a huge and ever-expanding spread of music aficionados'!

Being creative is generally normal, to a great degree, however, being entertaining doesn't make an artist or group special; it makes them more human and more approachable. Hanson absolutely has this "human attribute" .........which is a singularly intrinsic exception in the music industry among artists. That is the artistic exception that makes them great across the board! They are safe and comfortable within their musical and entertainment skins. They understand the elements of their creative and artistic environment, and they can, and do, cross the transom of "style" and entertain a broad spectrum of serious as well as occasional listeners.

"Watch Over Me" presents a true, clean and slow, edgy rock beat that locks in a crystal clear tune; a tune that makes the entire bod take note...and then picks up the rock beat which serves to elevate the intended person of the selection out of their illusion!. The words are a finely honed parlay of meaning that flow with a sense of being and understanding. The refrain begins low, in a reticent rock style then crescendos into a heightened harder core rock rendition. One hears driving guitar licks interspersed with acoustic licks that act as the piercing sword of the ultimate beat.

"Been There Before" presents a naturally rhythmic and upbeat selection combining a "new feel" to the music presentation. It blends the essence of an old time straight rock & roll with a definite hint of today's blended rock making it highly relevant and organically quite pleasant.

"Your Illusion" is quite appealing and unique. The words can have dual meanings and can be attributed to many of today's issues, sociological prescripts, and life-sized feelings of love and life depending on the age of the listener, which of course makes it a great multi-level selection for none other than a multiplicity of ages.....again!

"Running Man" presents a great paradox of old time "rock and soul" and the more current rock stylings of today with one of its definite strengths being the great layers of harmony. Secondary strength is solidly represented by the instrumental clarity and carefully laid down stratum of attitude.

Hanson is "really" here to stay. They are clean, crisp, talented, and just plain enjoyable while embracing the combined attributes of producing music, relaying true meaning, and delivering wide-eyed lyrics of which each selection is stellar and superiorly listenable and enjoyable!!!

www.myspace.com/rosenmusicgroup
Late December
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • It's all led up to this
  • Too Good For Corporate American Radio
  • Holy Glam Rock! Maria McKee Saves Rock N Roll
  • Maria does it again...and again...and again...and again
  • A Sheer Sonic Delight
 Late December
Maria McKee
Manufacturer: Cooking Vinyl
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

GeneralGeneral | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music
Alt-Country & AmericanaAlt-Country & Americana | Country | Styles | Music
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  1. Live Acoustic Tour 2006
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ASIN: B000MRA88A
Release Date: 2007-04-24

Tracks:

  1. Late December
  2. No Other Way To Love You
  3. A Good Heart
  4. Power On, Little Star
  5. Too Many Heroes
  6. Destine
  7. My First Night Without You
  8. Scene Of The Affair
  9. Cat In The Wall
  10. One Eye On The Sky (One ON The Grave)
  11. Bannow
  12. Straving Pretty

Amazon.com

Even in the early days of her solo career, Maria McKee had a penchant for penning dramatic melodies that seemed more conducive to Broadway than to contemporary radio. In fact, the former Lone Justice frontwoman makes reference to criticisms of that theatrical style in between songs on her "Live Acoustic Tour" CD. Pandering to no one, McKee continues to distance herself from her country roots on her sixth studio release, Late December, writing what might be best described as 'pop-ras,' miniature contemporary pseudo-operas sung in open-throated vibrato. "Destine" is a prime example, echoing Queen's "A Night at the Opera" with it's dramatic vocals and grandiose guitar solo. "Scene of the Affair" evokes a similar sensibility, as McKee mournfully sings "Four walls and a bed/best to let the dead rest with the dead." Those who prefer the old Maria will find a handful of songs to satiate their thirsty musical pallet. "My First Night Without You" has a soul/country cross that allows McKee to vocally shine; other notable moments include the gospel-infused ending to the title track and the infectious '60s Motown styling of "No Other Way to Love You." The one song that will likely please fans of both musical camps is McKee's inclusion of "A Good Heart," a track that she wrote at 18 years of age which became a worldwide hit for an Irish artist named Feargal Sharkey. --Denise Sheppard

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars It's all led up to this.......2007-07-13

If you saw Lone Justice back in the day, you're a Maria Mckee fan. But thought she was always one of the great live performers, and an enormously talented songwriter, the recordings (both LJ and her own) were, by almost all accounts, an eclectic and mixed bag.

But here she is, part Edith Piaf, part Freddie Mercury, blasting through an outrageous set of operatic pop-rock that is about the most startlingly bold CD in recently memory. Hearing it is like when you first heard Jeff Buckley's "Grace": ohmygodohmygod, this person is out of his/her mind, shooting for the stars, and talented enough to pull it off. Wow.

This is the one we've been waiting for. And it's thrilling that in her forties, she is doing, without a doubt, absolutely her barking best work.

The gorgeous space of the opener, "Late December," sets you up. Then she rollicks along with the almost Motownish "No Other Way to Love You" (though the Rob Halford screeches mark it as a song only Mckee could sing). We're all glad to finally have her own studio recording of the classic "A Good Heart." And the next three only get better, with McKee out-Queening Queen on "Destine."

I could go on... every song is excellent, and the flow is dramatic and compelling.

If you're looking for a safe listen in a particular style you like to be able to ignore while you do something else, take a pass. But if you appreciate what can happen when a great songwriter, performer, and student of pop goes completely for broke, check it out.

5 out of 5 stars Too Good For Corporate American Radio.......2007-06-17

Continuing her penchant of putting out great albums (this being her third studio album since returning in 2003 after a seven-year studio hiatus) that are too good for corporate radio, Maria McKee's LATE DECEMBER is another stunning work from one of the finest and most painfully underappreciated (at least by the public) vocalists of the last thirty-plus years.

In contrast with 2005's PEDDLIN' DREAMS (a rustic acoustic folk/country/rock affair that sort of harkened back to her Lone Justice days), LATE DECEMBER harkens back to the power-pop/rock eclecticism of her 2003 comeback HIGH DIVE. Her voice soars on all twelve tracks, written either by her alone or in collaboration with her producer husband Jim Akin, in such a way as to make her perfect for Broadway. But there's the R&B influences as well, on the title track and "No Other Way To Love You." And there is also the kind of cautionary note on "One Eye On The Sky (One On The Grave)", which is faintly reminiscent of HIGH DIVE's "From Our TV Teens To The Tomb."

What this album, and all of those in Maria's canon, dating all the way back to Lone Justice, shows is that she has always had the goods in every facet and has always had a hugely eclectic musical pallet--and, unfortunately, has also been far too good to be accepted on corporate radio in America. This is why it is best to pick up this CD and experience this tremendously gifted and youthful lady who still packs a vocal punch in her early 40s.

5 out of 5 stars Holy Glam Rock! Maria McKee Saves Rock N Roll.......2007-05-09

Holy Glam Rock! Maria McKee saves Rock N Roll single handedly with this glam rock explosion! What an amazing power-pop record. The second song, No Other Way To Love You sums up what Rock has been missing. Life is sweet, indeeed! This album has restored my faith in Rock!

5 out of 5 stars Maria does it again...and again...and again...and again.......2007-04-28

Ahhhhh Maria. Still not doing what everyone expects of you. Why doesn't she play this? Why doesn't she record that? Why doesn't each new record sound like the last one? How do we solve a problem like Maria?

You little diva indeed.

In my opinion, the new album is flippin' brilliant. My favourite so far, I think. Truly. Amazing. No Other Way to Love You may be the most gorgeously perfect pop song she's ever recorded. I am 3 months sober and Power On, Little Star leaves me shaking and in tears. I LOVE Destine - killer hook in it. Would love to see her play it live. And Starving Pretty is rich and full and melodic and...again...Maria breaks my heart. Did I mention Late December? Uhhh, goosebumps. The end of a relationship? The end of a career? The end of a life? But still, the hope of starting over. Maria sees the bleakness but holds onto hope.

This woman is a genius. I cannot believe we have been blessed with five (count 'em, five) Maria albums since 2003. Around year 2000, I seriously wondered if we would ever hear from her again. I believe that LD is a more accomplished, cohesive album than High Dive. The production is stellar and exciting and Maria seems to understand now that, no matter what, her voice needs to stay front and center in the mix. She and Jim have done a remarkable job with this one.

Thank you, Maria, for a lifetime of music and passion and hope.

Life is sweet.

Caution: Rant ahead:
Why? Why? Why does every song/album that Maria records HAVE to be compared to some other sound/singer/genre, blah, blah, blah? Has the world not figured out yet that she is her very own universe, guided by her own insane muse? It's obvious. It's been obvious for a long time. She's not interested in doing the same thing twice. Ever. Let's all get over it. She's never doing an album of Bob Dylan covers. Ain't gonna happen! Record critics are truly out-to-lunch. Thank God for Thom Jurek!

5 out of 5 stars A Sheer Sonic Delight.......2007-04-27

As my wife can attest, I am a mark for all things Maria - and have been since buying that first Lone Justice album back in 1985. Yes, of course, through the years she's evolved, exploring different musical terrains and challenging us fans - as all artists should. As far as this album: it's a sheer sonic delight that echoes the likes of David Bowie, the Drifters, Laura Nyro, Queen, Lou Reed, Bruce Springsteen and many others. Yet, as with all of her albums, the end result is 100-percent Maria: eccentric, heartfelt, theatrical and ... just plain addictive.

The finger-snapping title cut, about love on its last legs - or maybe just the fear of such ("baby, when can we start over?") - conjures NYC in winter with its bed of Nyro-like vocal flourishes and "Walk on the Wild Side"-esque spoken-word interludes. Another favorite: "No Other Way to Love You," which builds from its "On Broadway"-like intro to become ... well, I already used the word "addictive," but I'll use it again. It's a sweeping, hypnotic song about giving one's self over to love in total: "Want to talk about your wild horses/and the strength of 100 men/Attila and all his forces/couldn't keep me away from him ...." You'll feel Maria's sweat flying from the speakers, guaranteed. (Check out the guitar work on it, too.)

Other highlights: her cover of her own "A Good Heart," originally a hit for Feargal Sharkey way back when; the aching "My First Night without You"; the utterly poetic, operatic rocker "One Eye on the Sky (One Eye on the Grave)," in which she demonstrates why she's sometimes called "a punk Edith Piaf"; and the closing "Starving Pretty," in which she sings a song for starving artists everywhere: "lean on me, baby/we're going to make it/we're paperthin/we're gonna win...." The most challenging song, I suppose, is the oddball "Cat in the Wall" - but (as often is the case with Maria) there's a metaphor at play there. In a way, it's a bit like having a cat knead you - it's wonderful even though the tips of its claws dig a bit into the skin.

Of course, having singled out those seven songs, I feel compelled to single out the other five. I won't but, suffice it to say, "Late December" is an album that demands repeated plays; and, as all great albums, gets better with each listen.
Grizzly Man
Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
  • See the DVD documentary
  • Against the backdrop of the universe
  • A Fantastic Improvised Work of Art
  • Great Movie
  • Great movie but........
 Grizzly Man
Richard Thompson
Manufacturer: Cooking Vinyl
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

GeneralGeneral | Contemporary Folk | Folk | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Folk | Styles | Music
Traditional FolkTraditional Folk | Folk | Styles | Music
BritainBritain | British Isles | Europe | International | Styles | Music
Movie SoundtracksMovie Soundtracks | Soundtracks | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Soundtracks | Styles | Music
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ASIN: B000AYYTEE
Release Date: 2005-09-06

Tracks:

  1. Tim and the Bears
  2. Main Title
  3. Foxes
  4. Ghosts in the Maze
  5. Glencoe
  6. Parents
  7. Bear Swim
  8. Twilight Cowboy
  9. The Kibosh
  10. Treadwell No More
  11. Teddy Bear
  12. Small Racket
  13. Streamwalk
  14. Thats my Story
  15. Bear Fight
  16. Big Racket
  17. Corona For Mr. Chocolate
  18. Main Title Revisited
  19. Coyotes

Album Description

In his mesmerizing new film GRIZZLY MAN, acclaimed director Werner Herzog exploresthe life and death of amateur grizzly bear expert and wildlife preservationist Timothy Treadwell. Treadwell lived unarmed among the bears for thirteen summers, and filmed his adventures in the wild during his final five seasons. In October 2003, Treadwell's remains, along with those of his girlfriend, Amie Huguenard, were discovered near their campsite in Alaska's Katmai National Park and Reserve. They had been mauled and devoured by a grizzly, the first known victims of a bear attack in the park. (The bear suspected of the killings was later shot by park officials.) In GRIZZLY MAN, Herzog plumbs not only the mystery of wild nature, but also the mystery of human nature as he chronicles Treadwell's final years in the wilderness. Herzog uses Treadwell's own startling documentary footage to paint a nuanced portrait of a complex and compelling figure while exploring larger questions about the uneasy relationship between man and nature. Grizzly Man won the Sundance Film Festival's Alfred P. Sloan award, grossed $265,000 in its first week, and immediately expanded from 29 to 125 screens! The film is also receiving great reviews. There are 19 tracks with total running time at 84 minutes composed and played by Richard Thompson. This will be a must have for Richard's guitar fans! Thompson is currently receiving great reviews and exposure for Front Parlour Ballads, and the Grizzly Man soundtrack is mentioned in much of this coverage. Coverage included Sirius, NPR Weekend Edition.

Customer Reviews:

4 out of 5 stars See the DVD documentary.......2007-05-08

This music stands on its own better than most soundtracks, but would still be difficult to appreciate fully outside of the context of the sessions and the film. The main theme is reminiscent of Thompson's Knife-edge instrumental from the "Strict Tempo!" instrumental album, and features some lovely playing on the "cues". To increase your enjoyment, see the documentary on the recording sessions included in the special features on the DVD of the film. No fan of Richard Thompson will be disappointed!

5 out of 5 stars Against the backdrop of the universe.......2006-11-17

For weeks, I had been listening to one of the cuts from this CD, "Treadwell No More", via RT's website; it comes up as "Pibroch14" on Windows Media Player. A Pibroch (or more properly, Piobreachd,) is the "great pipe music" of Scotland; they are dramas played out against the backdrop of the universe, represented by the drones. Until this, I would not have believed that all the power and darkness of a classical Piobreachd could be expressed through the guitar, even from the heart and hands of RT. The piece is completely and utterly magic. I spent last weekend hand- digging a drainage channel across the back of our early- 1970's- hippie- carpenter- built house, in the mist and black drizzle of a New Hampshire November, with this CD playing in my pickup, pulled up nearby with the windows down. Perfect.

4 out of 5 stars A Fantastic Improvised Work of Art.......2006-10-24

I am constantly looking for simple and crude instrumental music to listen to when I write. I stray away from classical works, because I find their brilliance far too distracting. I also avoid the monotony of overdriven beats without substance. I prefer that there be little or no singing and speaking. I want an exploration of a theme, genre, and especially an improvised mix and replenishment of both.

The Grizzly Man soundtrack works well in my pursuit for inspiring, open-ended music. I disagree with the reviewers who suggest that the soundtrack requires the film as a complement. In fact, the soundtrack was recorded after the film's completion, and the musicians were directed not to play to the film but rather to capture the open country, to juxtapose ideas and spaces that the film explores.

Over two intense days, the entire soundtrack was improvised (largely guided by the great guitarist Richard Thompson) and recorded. My only complaint is that there is not more of this music. Since the pieces were often meant to fill a certain scene or length of footage, certain pieces tease the listener rather than fulfill a promise of a longer greatness. For two days' work, however, this is certainly a fantastic undertaking.

4 out of 5 stars Great Movie.......2006-06-17

Great Movie... a documentary on a troubled psyche and human nature, with meat eating Bears as a context. This is a story of a man with very good intentions, but his efforts are over shadowed by his personal struggle to define himself. Basically, a lover of nature preservation and bears, goes out to film bears in thier natural habitat for 13 seasons... in the fashion of Jane Goodall and her gorrillas. But unlike Mrs. Goodall, the film maker is no scientist and gets in over his head... in fact, he loses his head and is eaten by his "beloved" bears who had had enough of his intrusions.

2 out of 5 stars Great movie but...............2006-05-13

I really loved this movie. I also really enjoyed the soundtrack during the film. It greatly enhanced the whole experience.
It's also nice to have certain moments in the film come back to you while your listening to this CD. However, I have to say this music does not hold up so well on it's own. I guess it's a little on the boring side. I'm still glad I bought it but it's a little too boring for me most days. I have to be in the right mood to listen to this. The special features in the DVD has an interesting segment on the making of this music. Which will change how you hear the music after you see it.
I give this CD 2 1/2 stars
Loc-ed After Dark
Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
  • Classic
  • A Classic CD that every hip hop fan must buy
  • This is a rap album that was actually funny!
  • One of my all-time favorite rap albums...
  • This is not the '80s
 Loc-ed After Dark
Tone-Loc
Manufacturer: Delicious Vinyl
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

GeneralGeneral | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music
West CoastWest Coast | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music
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ASIN: B0000589TL
Release Date: 2001-02-20

Tracks:

  1. On Fire (Remix)
  2. Wild Thing
  3. Loc'ed After Dark
  4. I Got It Goin' On
  5. Cutting Rhythms
  6. Funky Cold Medina
  7. Next Episode
  8. Cheeba Cheeba
  9. Don't Get Close
  10. Loc'in On The Shaw
  11. The Homies

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Classic.......2006-02-17

Very good 1989 classic for sure.The best songs on this album in my opinion are Wild Thing,Funky Cold Medina,and The Homies.Wild Thing was a very big hit I don't know who hasen't heard it.Funky Cold Medina was the same way very popular.A great old school rap buy for anybody.

5 out of 5 stars A Classic CD that every hip hop fan must buy.......2004-12-26

I don't care who don't likes him and/or never like his style. 'Cause he's my favorite old-school rapper alongside Young MC, MC Hammer, EPMD, Whodini, Big Daddy Kane, Chubb Rock, Public Enemy, just to name a few artists from that genre.

You see Tone-Loc always keep it real w/o ever negating the positive images that's behind hip-hop. I consider this an album that shows real sides of whats happening in the world of hip-hop right now, one that shows people that kind of rap music is worth listening to.

Now ya'll think he's the worst rapper 'cause he can't rhyme or sing? Are you saying that this s**t is wack? Hell haw, if this is not 4 you, you shouldn't buy it.

That's why a lot of people are hatin on rap right now b/c it's lost its message and/or its voice. I pray we keep our soul alive in the industry w/o ever falling apart.

Every music or must-have fan should have this 'cause they missin' a lot of real stuff that it's happening 'round our culture.

Long story short, my 1st favorites from the album are Funky Cold Medina, Wild Thing and Loc'ed After Dark. I know I love every song I download off this album.

This is highly recommend 4 those who wants to hear real hip-hop. For instance, if u see BROWN SUGAR or ever listen to Kanye West's classic album THE COLLEGE DROPOUT you would know there's a difference between them making a new direction in the hip-hop culture.

I would love for Tone-Loc to come back with a new album in the near future. No rap fan or non-rap lover should hate on this.

2 out of 5 stars This is a rap album that was actually funny!.......2004-11-19

No deep review needed! Just listen to "Wild Thing" and "Funny
Cold" and you will laugh your @ss off! The sad part is that
some of that is because this is so cheesy!

5 out of 5 stars One of my all-time favorite rap albums..........2004-03-29

I grew up on the beginnings of rap. Ice-T, Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five, UTFO... these groups laid the foundations for what was to come. Approximately 10 years later Ton-Loc comes on the scene when rap was at an all-time low (in my opinion) and dance-music ruled the airwaves. Ton-Loc was different and that's what made him unique amongst all other rap artists. I first heard Ton-Loc's Wild Thing and Funky Cold Medina in '89, my senior year in high school. It wasn't until after I graduated that I heard his whole album. A friend of mine had the tape and I practically wore it out when he left it in my car. A lot of reviewers say they dislike Track 10. Me and a friend of mine were building bass systems in our cars before the car audio market started to take hold. Track 10 was and still is THE song we use to test our systems. It's the benchmark we use to this day. Track 10 was perfect for showing up at a friend's house and "announcing" yourself. In later years I ran it through a bass boost filter and made it even more powerful. Move forward 15 years and I'm still listening to this album. I like most every song except for Cheeba and Homies. You just can't find rap like this anymore because it's all been reduced to cussing and demoralization of others. This whole album is so fleshed out, something you don't find in a lot of debut albums. It's timeless in my opinion. I give this one 5 stars because I never get tired of the songs. The music is clean and crisp and sounds great on a decent system. I'm not a big rap fan anymore since most of the music on the radio nowadays is saturated with different incarnations of it, but albums like this take me back to a simpler time when rap was worth listening to.

3 out of 5 stars This is not the '80s.......2004-03-04

This CD features Tone Loc's two smash hits from the late 80s, "Wild Thing" and "Funky Cold Medina". These songs are both undeniable rap classics. Unfortunately, the rest of the album is not as good as those two songs. Most of the other songs are pretty forgetable, although "On Fire" is pretty good. The album reaches a definite low point with the five minute long instrumental "Loc'in on the Shaw", which Loc doesn't even appear on. Fans of old school rap may want to get this CD, if only for the two hits.
Christmass
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • Frank Black live - and some extra goodies
 Christmass
Frank Black
Manufacturer: Cooking Vinyl
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

GeneralGeneral | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music
Indie RockIndie Rock | Indie & Lo-Fi | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Rock | Styles | Music
Pop RockPop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music
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ASIN: B000LV62AU
Release Date: 2007-03-05

Tracks:

  1. (Do What You Want) Gyaneshwar
  2. Bullet
  3. I Burn Today
  4. Wave Of Mutilation
  5. Living On Soul
  6. She's My Way
  7. Massif Central
  8. Where Is My Mind?
  9. Raiderman
  10. Demon Girl
  11. Dead Man's Curve
  12. Cactus
  13. Six Sixty Six
  14. Radio Lizards
  15. Don't Get Me Wrong
  16. All Around the World
  17. Nadine
  18. Manitoba
  19. The Water
  20. Outakes/Song Of the Shrimp

Album Description

Limited edition CD/DVD (region 0 NTSC). This release comprises of live acoustic performances from summer 2006 along with 5 studio tracks recorded in various hotel rooms whist Frank toured the world and partly recorded songs at Planet of sound studios, Hartford. DVD footage is selections from live a acoustic show in Sacremento 2006. Cooking vinyl 2006

Album Details

This Release is Comprised of Live Acoustic Recordings from Summer 2006, Along with Five Studio Tracks Recorded Partly in Hotel Rooms and Partly at Planet of Sound Studios in Hartford, Connecticut; There is also a Dvd (Ntsc Format) with Selections from the Live Acoustic Show in Sacremento 2006.

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Frank Black live - and some extra goodies.......2007-05-14

This is a compendium of mostly live recordings from Frank Black's latest solo acoustic tour. If you're a fan, you probably already have this, but if you don't, get it while you can.

It's a testament to the strength of his songwriting that so many of these tracks stand up to solo acoustic renditions. As you can see, he also peppers in a few Pixies songs here & there, which is always a treat.

There are also a few *new* songs here, recorded while on the road and remixed. The best of them are "(Do What You Want) Gyaneshwar" and "She's my Way". I can't vouch for the others, which seem to be semi-failed experiments (especially "Demon Girl"... yeck).

The outtakes at the end are quite funny, especially the last one where Charles is dealing with a drunken screaming fan proclaiming that she saw him step out of a UFO before the concert.

Anyway, get it if you dig Frank Black. It's a great tide-me-over until Bluefinger is officially released.
Get Used to It
Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
  • Heavy Funk and big-time Soul
  • wow, tough crowd
  • A Blast From The Past
  • Brand New?
  • CD review
 Get Used to It
The Brand New Heavies
Manufacturer: Delicious Vinyl
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

GeneralGeneral | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music
HouseHouse | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Dance Pop | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music
Acid JazzAcid Jazz | Jazz | Styles | Music
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ASIN: B000FOQ15O
Release Date: 2006-06-27

Tracks:

  1. We've Got
  2. I Don't Know Why (I Love You)
  3. Get Used To It
  4. Sex God
  5. Let's Do It Again
  6. We Won't Stop
  7. Right On
  8. Music
  9. I Just Realized
  10. All Fired Up
  11. Love Is
  12. I've Been Touched

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Heavy Funk and big-time Soul.......2007-07-24

I couldn't tell if this was a good CD or not from the sample tracks. But man was I surprised when I cranked this up on a 300 mile drive to New York last week! The range and genre changes (raggie,disco,jazz/r&b) is amazing. My favorite is "Sex God". It's a real "come-and-get-me" song that N'Dea Davenport pulls off at her sultry best! Got to see them at the Capitol Jazz festival in June. TBNH turned the joint out and in the rain no less!

5 out of 5 stars wow, tough crowd.......2007-04-02

boy, i don't get some of these reviews at all. this cd is amazing! every track is a mini-masterpiece, and n'dea has never sounded better. i am particularly enamored with the track, "I've Been Touched," which starts out sweetly low-key but steadily builds into a good old jam. if you've ever been a fan of The Brand New Heavies, you can't go wrong with this disc.

4 out of 5 stars A Blast From The Past.......2007-03-29

Like one of the previous reviewers added: this is a real group playing real instruments. This CD is a wholesome change from whats out there now musically. They bring back that natural funk flavor. Out of the 12 songs 9 are really solid (1,2,3,6,7,8,9,11,12). My favorites were "Get used to it" no.3 & "We won't stop" no.6. The 8th joint takes a thinly veiled shot at the techno enhanced music of the day. On the 7th cut they actually mention how they were attempting to bring funk back into music. N'dea returned with superb vocals after a long hiatus. She put icing on the cake, and she's still as seductive as ever.

4 out of 5 stars Brand New?.......2007-03-11

I first saw them on BET Jazz--singing one song and fell in love with them. I like this cd a lot!

5 out of 5 stars CD review.......2007-03-10

Truly talented musicians. You can never go wrong with the Brand New Heavies.
Drums Along the Hudson
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • Don't Stop Now!
  • Missing The Boat
  • Just Don't Get it For the Extras
 Drums Along the Hudson
The Bongos
Manufacturer: Cooking Vinyl
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

GeneralGeneral | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music
New Wave & Post-PunkNew Wave & Post-Punk | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music | New Wave | Post-Punk | Urban Folk
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ASIN: B000HRME6O
Release Date: 2007-06-12

Tracks:

  1. In the Congo
  2. The Bulrushes
  3. Clay Midgets
  4. Video Eyes
  5. Glow In the Dark
  6. Telephoto Lens
  7. Certain Harbours
  8. Speaking Sands
  9. Burning Bush
  10. Automatic Doors
  11. Hunting
  12. Zebra Club
  13. Three Wise Men
  14. Mambo Sun
  15. Question Ball
  16. Nuts & Bolts
  17. Telephoto Lens
  18. In the Congo
  19. Nuts & Bolts
  20. Question Ball
  21. Glow In the Dark
  22. Hunting
  23. Video Eyes
  24. The Bulrushes
  25. Automatic Doors
  26. Zebra Club
  27. Bulrushes 2007

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Don't Stop Now!.......2007-07-11

here's hoping Cooking Vinyl re-issues Richard Barone & Jame Mastro's "Nuts & Bolts" LP too! as for me, i'm purchasing a download of a Bongos 1983 concert from Wolfgang's Vault.

5 out of 5 stars Missing The Boat.......2007-06-30

Or ferry cross the Hudson in this case. Whether or not you appreciate the live material included here or the new reworking of Bulrushes shouldn't be a reason to buy a different release of this classic. If your looking for the best version of the original songs on cd, this is the one to get. The original recordings were mastered for vinyl. This Special Edition has been remixed with a much stronger drum and bass presence. This being somewhat reminiscent to Cream's recordings where the bass and drums are given equal weight to the guitars and vocals. Certain Harbours (a unique mix of improv jazz and pop music), sounds better here than ever, and is right at home followed by Mingus or Coltrane's later experimental stuff. Not many pop bands have bridged that gap. This one did.

5 out of 5 stars Just Don't Get it For the Extras.......2007-06-26

Drums Along the Hudson is one of the 10 or 20 best albums of the 80s. It's probably one of the 100 best albums of all time. Perfect pop made by wild jungle boys. There's really nothing else like it. It is of the 80s, yet sound like something made in a vacuum, like the band members had shut themselves away from all the other music being made at the time and came out with this. I could go on and on, but if you are reading this you probably already know what a wonderful record this is. But my warning here is that, while it's great that this reissue has been released, if you're buying this CD simply for the extras, save your cash. The live stuff sounds like it was recorded from a cigar box, and "The Bulrushes 2007," mixed by Moby, is a joke. If you need this to get the original album on a CD, then go for it. Otherwise, forget it and move on.
Folk Is the New Black
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • Great to deal with
  • Good Album
  • All of the above
  • From the Desert of Your Heart
  • Forever A Star,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,
 Folk Is the New Black
Janis Ian
Manufacturer: Cooking Vinyl
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

GeneralGeneral | Contemporary Folk | Folk | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Folk | Styles | Music
Traditional FolkTraditional Folk | Folk | Styles | Music
RevivalRevival | Folk | Styles | Music
Singer-SongwritersSinger-Songwriters | Pop | Styles | Music
Pop RockPop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Rock | Styles | Music
Similar Items:
  1. Souvenirs: Best of Janis Ian 1972-1981
  2. Billie's Bones
  3. Between the Lines
  4. Black Cadillac
  5. Unreleased 3: Society's Child

ASIN: B000BYVJRI
Release Date: 2006-02-21

Tracks:

  1. Danger Danger
  2. The Great Divide
  3. Life Is Never Wrong
  4. Jackie Skates
  5. All Those Promises
  6. Standing In The Shadows Of Love
  7. The Drowning Man
  8. Crocodile Song
  9. The Last Train
  10. My Autobiography
  11. Home Is The Heart
  12. Shadows On The Wind
  13. Haven't I Got Eyes
  14. Joy
  15. Folk Is The New Black

Amazon.com

Now in her fifth decade of recording, Janis Ian might be expected to slack off a bit--record a collection of covers, for example--but she still maintains the highest standards for herself in writing original and well-crafted songs based on snapshots from the human and political experience. Coming on the heels of 2004's extraordinary Billie's Bones, with its predominant jazz-blues shapings, Folk Is the New Black may seem a bit too much like a throwback, a slighter effort, particularly as the bookending songs, "Danger, Danger" and the title track evoke the classic '60s hootenanny protest forms without adding anything new or evoking much militant ire. But this beautifully conjured and executed album resonates with soul-shivering truth, and even mundane observations often glisten on the page as poetry. As each song spotlights a haunting moment in a lover's life ("All Those Promises"); tells the story of sad, ephemeral presence in this harsh ol' world ("Jackie Skates"); or uses Woody Guthrie-ish wit to illuminate an event in the artist's personal journey ("My Autobiography"), Ian proves time and again how she has continued to stand tall in the pantheon of America's finest singer-songwriters. --Alanna Nash

Album Description

Who are the great songwriters in America today? Not the most popular. Not the richest. Simply the greats. Ask any student of the form, and Janis Ian will be counted among them. The writer of Jesse, a song recorded by so many others that few remember Ian wrote it; Stars, possibly the best song ever written about the life of a performer, recorded by artists as diverse as Mel Torme and Cher; and the seminal At Seventeen, a song that brought her five Grammy nominations (the most any solo female artist had ever garnered) in 1975, which is now reaching its third generation of listeners.

The glowing reviews come as no surprise to Ian's loyal fan base, who give her website a stunning quarter million hits per year - even though she hasn't had a top twenty record here in three decades. Ian has had great success as a co-writer, with cuts by Bette Midler, Kathy Mattea, John Mellencamp and a host of others. But Folk Is the New Black is the first album since 1981's "Restless Eyes" that sees Ian writing 100% of everything.

2006 sees the release of Ian's twentieth major-label album, and to this writer's mind, her logical follow-up to the critically acclaimed "Between the Lines". Titled "Folk Is the New Black", the album takes no prisoners; from the wry self-deprecating humor of its title song ("Folk is the new black/cheaper than crack/and you don't have to cook") to the political ("While politicians lie and cheat to get to higher ground/we follow them like sheep, and salute them as we drown"), to what is possibly the best love-`em-and-leave-`em song written in decades ("All those promises that you made me from the start/were filled with emptiness from the desert of your heart"), "Folk Is the New Black" is a songwriter's tour de force. Never mind that it took decades for her to come full circle; Ian is right back where she started, in the bosom of folk music at its best - older, wiser, her talent honed and sharpened until it cuts so fine, we barely feel the blade slicing through us.

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Great to deal with.......2007-07-22

Wonderful product, well packaged, as described and delivered as it should be. What can I say? That is the way it is supposed to work. Great job. Great CD.

4 out of 5 stars Good Album.......2006-07-11

Janis never disappoints. Although this might not be her best effort, it is very pleasing. Her songwriting has always been her strength and this remains true with this record. Longtime fans will not be disappointed.

5 out of 5 stars All of the above.......2006-06-29

Have to agree with all the positive reviews about this one... All Those Promises is my favorite track, and the one that reminds me most of Janis' early work... At Seventeen was the song I always hoped would come on my bike radio in the 9th grade when riding through Hein Park with my girlfriend, Kathy McKinley... it did, it was magic, and I've been a fan ever since. Go on and buy this one... you'll love it.

5 out of 5 stars From the Desert of Your Heart.......2006-06-18

"Folk is the New Black" is another excellent outing from Janis Ian who has consistently put out excellent discs recently like "God & the FBI" & the live "Working Without a Net." Of the 15 tracks here, my two very favorites include the soft and sad "All Those Promises," a classic breakup song with one of Ian's strongest & most moving melodies & an excellent lyric, "And all those promises that you made me from the start were filled with emptiness from the desert of your heart; Every sweet caress was just your second best." The lighthearted shuffle "The Crocodile Song" also makes me hit the repeat button with its tongue-in-cheek tale & Viktor Krauss's upright bass thumping haywire, "They had a son and named him Rocky, of course; He fell for a gal on the police force; She was impressed with his bullet proof vest; so they let the romance run its course." Ian's "The Great Divide" is an excellent song with a political voice, "There's a tide of greed that knows no shame and a tide of money that holds no stain, a tide of men who worship pride & will not be denied." This is one of her best works ever! "Jackie Skates" is a classic folk ballad with Ian's acoustic guitar sounding like a nerve throbbing, completely raw. "Home Is In the Heart" and "Joy" are two other classic Ian gems that warm the soul. "Folk is the New Black" is an excellent set of new music from Janis Ian, not be missed! Bravo!

5 out of 5 stars Forever A Star,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,.......2006-05-31

Janis Ian ... Everyone should have add this album to their collection. The writing is awesome, and Janis' voice is as crisp as ever...seeing Janis perform these songs in person many times, each time the songs get richer and more beautiful if that is possible.. Each time it is as if she is performing it for the first time. It is a MUST have. Give it a try and when you buy one, buy an extra one for a friend because they will want one. Also checkout Janis' website www.janisian.com and spread the word. JENNY

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