Generator [CD-single] [Import]

Editorial Reviews
Album Description
Australian exclusive edition of the third single from 1999's platinum & top 10 'There Is Nothing Left To Lose', the third album from Dave Grohl & friends. It's backed with two previously unreleased live tracks NOT included on the U.K. version, 'Stacked Actors' & the hit 'Learn To Fly' both recorded in Australia plus 'Breakout' (Live) recorded in Glasgow and an enhanced CD-ROM. 2000 release. Slimline jewel case.

Tracks:

Rhythm Of Love
Big Generator
Shoot High Aim Low
Almost Like Love
Love Will Find A Way
Final Eyes
I'm Running
Holy Lamb

Customer Reviews:

A very bad album from a great band.......2007-07-06

With Drama and Tormato, this cd wins the contest for the worst music made by this amazing band. This is a very bad follow up for 90125.
I like only three songs on this cd, "Rythm of Love", "Shoot high, Aim low" and "Love will find a way"
"Almost like love" and "I'm running" are serious possible winners for the worst song, But yes will raise again and will produce some very good release in a near future. (See some of my other reviews)

Rhythm Of Yes .......2007-01-31

After their 1983 mega-hit album "90125," Yes took four years to produce the follow-up, "Big Generator." By this time, despite their recent success, singer Jon Anderson and guitarist Trevor Rabin were disagreeing over the group's musical direction, which only slowed down the new album's recording process. But, finally completed in 1987, "Big Generator" turns out to be an excellent Yes album. It's basically a companion album to "90125," as the songs on "Big Generator" have a similar feel to the tunes on it's predecessor: polished, 80's radio-friendly rock, with just the occasional hint of the band's old prog days. But there's nothing wrong with that---these are great songs! "Rhythm Of Love" has always been one of my favorite Yes songs, a world-class, catchy rocker and worthy successor to "Owner Of A Lonely Heart." "Shoot High Aim Low" is a majestic, powerful number. "Final Eyes" is gorgeous, while "I'm Running" is a simply stunning track, and the closest Yes get on this album to their 70's material. "Big Generator" also boasts sharp production work, and great performances throughout from Anderson, Rabin, bassist Chris Squire, keybordist Tony Kaye, and drummer Alan White. The only misfires the band make are "Almost Like Love," which is listenable, but just a tad *too* pop-sounding for Yes, and the immortally silly lyric on the otherwise nice song "Love Will Find A Way" (yep, I'm referring to the "Chez Nous" bit). But other than that, I have no other criticisms. Right after the band finished their tour for "Big Generator," Jon Anderson decided he'd had enough (or so he thought at the time) and left Yes to form a new group with *other* former Yes men Bill Bruford, Rick Wakeman and Steve Howe (they were legally barred from using the Yes name themselves). But don't you fret, fans, Jon will soon be back (and so will his other Yes friends, too, but that's another story)! In the meantime, if you enjoyed "90125," then you should definitely buy "Big Generator" as well. It's a great Yes album. (NOTE: "Big Generator" was mysteriously excluded from Yes' recent remaster series, which is a shame. I do hope this album will get a proper, sonic clean-up job in the near future.)

Good, but the Generator is losing steam........2007-01-28

4 years in the making, the 90125 follow up should have been better IMO.
The Trevor Rabin / Jon Anderson team was reportedly not getting along and the Yes camp was starting to lose momentum, but wait...Jon has an idea

Terrible.......2007-01-01

I actually liked 90125, while it wasn't "Yes" it was still a decent album, but Big Generator was just terrible...with the exception of one or two songs, this entire album represented the very worst of Yes. Union wasn't great but it was certainly an improvement from this.

Re-master this album at once!!!.......2006-11-27

Big Generator is a great album, but it seriously needs a sonic overhaul. Why re-master 90125, but not Big Generator? As for those idiots who'll say this album sucks or isn't really YES, ignore them and check it out for yourself. Both Yes and Deep Purple seem to have this problem in common. You know, ignore the "recent" stuff, `cause their greatest music was back in the 70's. I personally enjoy it all, due to an open mind and open ear.

Average customer rating:

AMAZING!
great experimental album
One of the Greatest
Truly, Truly Amazing
Consistently powerful

Generator
Bad Religion
Manufacturer: Epitaph / Ada
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Similar Items:

Against the Grain
No Control
Suffer
The Gray Race
Recipe for Hate

ASIN: B0001JXP98
Release Date: 2004-04-06

Tracks:

Generator
Too Much To Ask
No Direction
Tomorrow
Babies in the Dark
Heaven is Falling
Atomic Garden
The Answer
Fertile Crescent
Chimaera
Only Entertainment
Fertile Crescent (Bonus Track)
Heaven Is Falling (Bonus Track)

Customer Reviews:

AMAZING!.......2006-07-05

First off just let me say that I am religous but love this band! How can that be possible you ask? Well I recently read an interview with Jay (bass player for BR) and he said that he believes in god and says that everyone is entilted to believe what they want. Hence some of their songs are trying to disprove gods existence but thats Greg speaking people! Now I dont believe in science which may seem silly to some but really you may think im silly for believing in god. So it goes both ways. However one thing we can agree on is that this is an awesome BR album that everyone should have. Right now on with a track by track rating:

1.Generator: What an awesome song with great lyrics, guitars and drums. One of their best songs 5/5

2.Too much to ask. Starts off slow but then pummels you into submission with blistering speed and feriocity. Another 5/5

3.No Direction. Very powerful song about people not knowing how to live. 5/5

4.Tommorow. Another song that projects people as a product of the media,government. 5/5

5.Not much to say on this one but still a 5/5

6.Heaven is falling. Short and sharp 4.5/5

7.Atomic Garden. Funny song but over rated. 3.5/5

8.The Answer. Believe what you want and if thats good enough for you and you strongly believe then fine. Basically believe in what you want to is the message of this song. 5/5

9.Fertile Crescent. Great song 5/5

10.Chimera. A song about creating a monster through either science or religion or the state or all 3. Great song though. 5/5

11.Only Entertainment. Good song but not their best. 4.5/5

Then you get the bonus tracks with some other guy playing on drums which is good but its two tracks that youve just heard like 5 minutes ago. Still this is an insanely awesome album. Pick it up you will be thrilled.

great experimental album.......2006-03-30

definately their darkest album ever released on epitaph records. the song generator is amazing. i also love "tomorrow" and "heaven is falling." atomic garden is good, but overrated. this is the album where you can start to see a huge changeup from the previous. not only did they gain bobby as drummer, but the album is less and less of the straight forward punk agression found on suffer, no control and against the grain. the lyrics also take a stance on war and human condition instead of the whole scientific and anti-religion ways of the previous albums. this was defiantely to the gulf war of the early 90's as empire strikes first is to taking a stand on today's invasions of iraq.

many people consider this the top bad religion album. i think its really good, but for me it is one of the middle ground ones. i may put it equal with stranger than fiction if im in a "generator" mood.

One of the Greatest.......2006-01-14

When i bought generator i thought that this was going to be one of their better albums and i was right. the bonus tracks are excellent, spend the extra cash and get this one over the regular recording

Truly, Truly Amazing.......2005-10-17

This is Bad Religion's darkest, bleakest and best album. Oh yes, people will tell you Suffer this, and against the Grain that, and in truth those are both excellent albums, but Generator is just better. Highlights include the title track, the sheer brilliance of Heaven is Falling, the blistering Fertile Crescent, and the sneering, cynical pop song "Only Entertainment" which, along with Heaven is Falling, is my favourite track on the album. This band, along with the mighty Social Distortion, revolutionized American punk, and so you owe it to yourself to sit down and check this, their best album, out.

Consistently powerful.......2005-08-10

The title of this review cannot be applied to Bad Religion's entire career; through the 90's and especially now, they've run out of things to sing about, which may not affect a less politically-motivated band.

But on this album, everything comes together. It's not a relentless assault in the style of "Suffer" or "No Control" (solid albums in their own right); there's some of that, but there are several well-placed numbers that are more mellow and contemplative.

I found the songs penned by guitarist/Epitaph big-shot Brett Gurewitz to be the most powerful. "Generator" haunts me every time I listen, with its decadent poetry and squealing guitars (that sounded really emo. The song is NOT emo...I just can't think of better words right now). "Two Babies in the Dark" is messier, but equally evocative. "Heaven is Falling" is just as relevant with the new "King George," and "Atomic Garden" perfects the mad-scientist tone.

Of course, Greg Graffin provides the majority of the intellectual bulk, giving social and political clout to the frenzied music. Graffin always has a lot to say, and it shows most awkwardly on the preachy "No Direction." Yet just when you think he's going to make an altar call, Graffin turns around and concedes, "no Bad Religion song will make your life complete."

In a genre where you can learn all you need to from the song's title (the odious Anti-Flag has a song on their new album entitled, "You can kill the protestor, but you can't kill the protest"), Bad Religion delivers the goods, complete with nuance, skill, and power.

Average customer rating:

The Return

Dead Planet: Sonicslowmotiontrails
Nick Oliveri and Mondo Generator
Manufacturer: Suburban Noize
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Cannibal

ASIN: B000RRUSG2
Release Date: 2007-07-17

Tracks:

Basket Case
I Never Sleep
All the Way Down
She Only Owns You
Lie Detector
Mental Hell
All Systems Go
Like a Bomb
So High
Sonicslowmotiontrails
Take Me Away
Life Of Sin
Paper Thin
Sam Hall
There She Goes Again
Bloody Hammer
Sleep the Lie Away

Album Description

Mondo Generator was originally formed by Nick Oliveri (Queens of the Stone Age, Kyuss) in 1997. Recorded by Producer Nick Raskulinecz (Foo Fighters, Velvet Revolver, System Of A Down) at Dave Grohl's Studio 606, Dead Planet: SonicSlowMotionTrails picks up exactly where the group left off: creating thunderous, raw rock 'n' roll. The album takes the listener on a sonic journey that steamrolls through musical boundaries. The band is co-headlining the second stage at Ozzfest 2007.

Customer Reviews:

The Return.......2007-07-20

Only a month after his former band released the killer "Era Vulgaris", Nick Oliveri's Mondo Generator upped the ante with "Dead Planet". This album is easily the best release by Nick and the band. Not a bad track in the mix. This album was previously released in the UK but does not contain the final three songs. Listen to this along with "Era Vulgaris" it is like Nick never left. Not to compare it to much to QOTSA because this stands on its own as a very good piece of work. I look forward to seeing the band perform these songs live.

Average customer rating:

Can't Believe
A Must-have for the Fans, but...
God Bless the Generator!
Another monster
VdGG fans gotta have this !

Real Time
Van der Graaf Generator
Manufacturer: Fie
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Singularity
Live Broadcasts: Collector's Rarities (Dts)
Fear of a Blank Planet
Clutch
Typical

ASIN: B000MV8GWQ
Release Date: 2007-03-26

Tracks:

Undercover Man
Scorched Earth
Refugees
Every Bloody Emperor
Lemmings
(In The) Black Room
Nutter Alert
Darkness
Masks
Childlike Faith in Childhood's End
Sleepwalkers
Man-Erg
Killer
Wondering

Album Description

Two CD set from the Experimental Prog-Rock outfit that captures their reunion concert recorded in May of 2005. Branton, Hammill, Jackson and Evan are in top form throughout, with some of their most accomplished playing ever captured on a VDGG album. 13 tracks including 'Scorched Earth', 'Every Bloody Emperor', 'Nutter Alert' and more. FIE 2007

Album Details

2007 Released Audio Document of the Opening Night of the Band's 2005 Reunion Tour at London's Royal Festival Hall and Mixed by Hugh Banton. Anticipation Ran High on the Evening of May 6, 2005 as Thousands of the Group's Fans Awaited with Baited Breath as to What Would Occur During their Time in the Hall. The Ensemble Certainly Did Not Disappoint and Reviews were Absolutely Glowing, Lauding the Mix of Both Reninvented Classics from their Discography and Songs from the Reunion Album "Present". This Set Presents Every Moment of the Concert that Evening, a Magical Event that Attendees Will Never Forget.

Customer Reviews:

Can't Believe.......2007-07-05

I can't believe this concert is not coming out on DVD. This double cd is a must for any VDGG fan. Hammill has lost very little of his treasured instrument/voice. The band sounds fantastic. "Sleepwalkers" and "Arrow" have a harder edge to them, making classic tunes even better. The rest of the cd is equally as good. "Nutter Alert," "Every Bloody Emperor," "Man-Erg," and "Childlike Faith in Childhoods End" will make you stand-up and cheer as if you were there in Great Britain. BUY THIS CD then PLAY IT VERY LOUD. David Jackson will amaze as will Hammill.

A Must-have for the Fans, but..........2007-06-08

As a group that was completely obscure in their day, 30 years ago, and even more so now, it's only die-hard fans like myself who buy VdGG disks and write reviews on Amazon. So essentially every album gets 5 stars.

This is a very good recording of a historically important (for VdGG fans) concert, so it's a must-have, etc. etc. But I think it needs to be mentioned that, somewhat surprisingly, Peter Hammill flubs the lyrics from time to time - he forgets where he is and skips/repeats a verse or a line, on several occasions. Given the complexity of the material, it's forgiveable, and consistent with when I've seen him perform over the years. But it's annoying if you happen to know the lyrics by heart, as I'm sure a disturbing number of us do. So I only give it four stars.

God Bless the Generator!.......2007-06-01

You've got to admit, VDGG is a very brave band. They didn't play live for close to 30 years and decided to record and release their first night back on the stage. Any mere mortal band would have probably chosen a later performance so that they could have gotten comfortable playing again. That's what's so great about these guys, they take chances, in their lives and in the music. This collection is pretty much a greatest hits and well worth the money to any fan of the band. The musicianship, not unexpectedly, is stunning at times. I'll admit there a few rough spots, mostly towards the front of the show, but hey give the guys a break. They're not playing normal 4/4 time rock. Hugh Banton is the glue that holds everything together. He's so proficient at playing bass on the pedals that you don't miss a "true" bass-player. Hammill's always a joy to listen to (at least for me). David Jackson, who unfortunately is no longer with the band, plays his butt off. And Guy Evans is still a powerhouse. The sound quality is fine throughout. England can be proud of having produced such an extraordinary band.

Another monster.......2007-04-14

These guys are getting up there in age, but man -- this is the best ever VdGG. Wish it had a DVD showing the concert too. Let's hope the buying public gets this in droves and VdGG decides to visit us here in the USA with a tour.

Peter Hammill, please get David Jackson back in the band! PLEASE!

VdGG fans gotta have this !.......2007-03-31

If your a VdGG fan...yes, you must have this. VdGG are still powerful and rocking. I only wish I could have been there to see it. For those of you who do not know VdGG but, are looking to expand your prog rock musical horizons. I'd suggest starting with either the "Godbluff" or "Pawn Hearts" album. Turn down the lights..sit back...and take it in. VdGG are probably one of the most interesting Prog rock bands of their era who can make it rock as well. They are easily one of my favorites. Interesting time signatures, very powerful vocals, menacing organs, and some great sax playing throughout.

Average customer rating:

solid
One the VdGG's best....ever!
Speechless!
The 1st Vah Der Graff !!!!in my heart
Give it time -- you'll be glad you did

Pawn Hearts
Van Der Graaf Generator
Manufacturer: Blue Plate Caroline
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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H to He, Who Am the Only One
Godbluff
The Least We Can Do Is Wave to Each Other
Still Life
World Record

ASIN: B0009F9O6W
Release Date: 2005-06-14

Tracks:

Lemmings (Including Cog)
Man-Erg
A Plague Of Lighthouse Keepers (Medley)
Theme One (Original Version)
W (Alternate Take)
Angle Of Incidents
Ponker's Theme
Diminutions

Album Description

Remastered album includes the bonus tracks 'Theme One' (original version), 'W' (alternate take) and the previously unreleased tracks 'Angle Of Incidents', 'Ponker's Theme' & 'Diminutions'. EMI. 2005.

Album Details

Following the Release of the Band's Studio Album `present', the Van Der Graaf Generator Catalogue is Finally Being Remastered (By Peter Hammill). Each Comes with Bonus Tracks, Many of which Are Previously Unreleased and Eagerly Awaited by their Many Fans (Whom Include Graham Coxon, John Lydon, Julian Cope, George Martin and Chilli Peppers Guitarist John Frusciante to Name a Few.)

Customer Reviews:

solid.......2007-05-24

While it may appear like this album features a lot of songs, there's actually only three of them (three HUGE multi-part pieces).

I'd say Van Der Graaf Generator is a pretty tough band to get into (unlike Gentle Giant) because their musical ideas are pretty insanely OUT there, not to mention their lead singer is the definition of an acquired taste. More often than not, the guy reminds me of Alice Cooper the way he tries to sound serious and believable, but instead ends up sounding goofy thanks to some of his rather odd vocal reaches. Unlike Cooper though, he's actually singing most of the time instead of talk-singing (the main thing about Alice Cooper that drives me nuts).

But for every time the music rears in an insanely goofy direction, they are quickly taken back to a friendlier and more enjoyable melody. This is basically an album for people who prefer vocal melodies in their progressive rock, instead of lengthy jams and multi-part instrumental pieces and what have you.

Do I prefer vocal melodies over jams? No, not really. But I can't deny, with time and patience, you will find a highly enjoyable listening experience about lighthouses if you give Pawn Hearts an honest chance.

One the VdGG's best....ever!.......2007-04-13

Don't expect this to be a foot tapper-dinner-party-mixer. Yes, there are some beautiful passages and softer moments. But, put the kids to bed because the band jumps on it hard and it gets jagged, manic, vocals straining-splitting-piercing. Demonic organ blasts and double saxaphone passages all beautifully arranged and held together by exquisite drumming. So, If your a prog rock fan and you don't have VdGG in your collection. I'd say this album and "H to He who am the only one" are the places to start when considering VdGG's earlier albums. Later release's like Godbluff, World Record, Still Life, will make their way into your collection in due time.

Speechless!.......2006-12-15

That's how this recording can leave you! One of the most stunning works of art I've ever heard. This is truly the epitome of ART rock. The combination of prima donna musicians with Peter Hammill's overblown, theatrical vocal excursions, will take you to strange vistas perhaps never explored by any other artist. And what a trip it is! Think David Bowie sings King Crimson and that only scarcely scratches the surface. Truly, truly unique. Manic saxophone reminiscent of early Ian McDonald and frantic time and key signature shifts can send your mind reeling. But the beautiful, melancholic sections... For instance, the anthemic "Man-Erg" (track two.) If you don't get goose bumps from the sheer power and gradiose beauty of this song, you simply don't have a pulse! Every song offered here is a masterpiece you don't want to miss! I would feel quite safe saying you probably haven't experienced anything like this before. A very close second for me is the predecessor, "H To He..." I also recommend " The Least We Can Do...." and "Godbluff." I enjoy their other recordings,but these to me are their peak achievements. You won't regret this purchase!

The 1st Vah Der Graff !!!!in my heart .......2006-12-14

August 1979....My Uncle looked at me and said;"OK!,If your going to try this stuff;aka>{Ganga}, you going to start w/me!,NOT on a street corner!{Being a TRUE "hippy" who went to; "Woodstock, Atlanta Pop Festival,Altamont Speedway??{aka; GIMME SHETLER" concert!,etc}...
Damn I was born 10 years too late!}.This was my 1st experience to Van Der Graff. Now, as i write this, I put on the timeless"PAWN HEARTS" once again..All I can say with my WHOLE heart, as a listener, as a musician, and a love of PROGRESSIVE. THIS 'druid', beautiful recording named;"PAWN HEARTS"!?,TRULY!..., is timeless,. Progressive, jazz; >ie{"Would you cry,If I die?{'Plague of Lighthouse Keepers'}.Time changes, a Ballad, a nervous breakdown!!!, almost a DALI'soundtrack '!. music compoised in symphony.
Summary;
PLEASE!!!! If you can appreciate Music creativity ,Harvard, Vivaldi,Kierkregard Genesis,...Just buy it!!! But !...Be open
God Bless

Give it time -- you'll be glad you did.......2006-11-11

I've had the old Caroline CD of "Pawn Hearts" in my collection for easily five years. I'd put it in the player once in a while trying to get into it, but it just never clicked. Then a few weeks ago, I decided to pick up "H to He, Who Am the Only One," figuring maybe I just needed to hear some other VdGG material first, to ease my way into this challenging album. It seemed to do the trick ... because when I went back to "Pawn Hearts," all of its layers of brilliance suddenly started to reveal themselves. It kind of felt like cracking a Zen koan that you've been meditating on for years. The release from finally "getting it" was incredibly exhilarating, and some two weeks later, I can't stop playing this amazing work from the early '70s.

I share that little story to encourage you not to write off this album if you, too, don't get it the first time around -- or even the 10th time around! Even by prog-rock standards, it's not easily accessible. It makes some parts of "Tales From Topographic Oceans" seem lightweight by comparison! But stick with it, because eventually, you'll be richly rewarded.

I've heard VdGG's early music referred to as "jagged." That's a pretty good description for a lot of what you'll hear here. There are some light and transcendently beautiful moments, including some absolutely irresistible vocal melodies from Peter Hammill, but most of the record will probably remind you of the harsh, manic, claustrophobic cacophony of King Crimson's "Lizard" album, with all of its demented jazziness, twittering percussion, and honking woodwinds. Add in some prominent keyboard work that calls to mind both Deep Purple (the heavy, grinding organ work) and McDonald & Giles (no joke -- you'll hear swatches on here that call to mind the "Suite in C" piano and the "Birdman" organ), and you've got a fairly good handle on what to expect.

I know that Peter Hammill is a rather polarizing artist. Me? I take his voice as just another very quirky instrument in an already bizarre band. And I simply can't imagine this music without his voice over the top of it. But are the lyrics really the profoundly penetrating blasts of human-condition poetry that Hammill's hardcore fans say they are? Well, I can say that I do find a certain level of genuine emotional depth here that I don't hear in a lot of other prog bands from this era. Ian Anderson was sarcastic and cynical; Peter Gabriel was spinning Victorian fantasies; Jon Anderson was lost in the mystical ether; Peter Sinfield was a flower child. Hammill, meanwhile, was certainly earnest and serious about what he had to say, and he seemed to focus more on existential Everyman concerns -- rather like Roger Waters, but not as acerbic, and certainly more varied than Waters' well-worn themes of madness and war. Where Waters seemed to draw from Syd Barrett and his father's death as lyrical reference points over and over, Hammill isn't so insular -- the entire human race and its trials and tribulations are the canvas on which he paints. And he does it all in a theatrical, nearly operatic delivery, with his voice sliding seamlessly from piercing choir-boy heights to exasperated growls and lots of unpredictable points in between. He has a very pronounced and distinctive vibrato, a polished falsetto that only Freddie Mercury could rival in the world of rock, and an unbelievable amount of control over his delivery. You'd expect a few clinkers with these kinds of vocal acrobatics, but he seems to hit the notes perfectly every time. Even more intriguing, there are a few points near the end of "A Plague of Lighthouse Keepers" where he strongly conjures up the stylings of David Bowie and "After the Gold Rush"-era Neil Young. Pretty amazing.

There's not a weak track among the three here. "Lighthouse Keepers" will probably take you the longest to penetrate, just because there's so much going on. Sometimes, the music seems to be on the verge of flying out of control, and before you know it, it's been reined back in and ready to fly off somwhere else. The whole thing pretty much teeters on the edge of chaos. To top off the perversity of it all, the piece builds up at the end rather majestically en route to a musical resolution, to give us a much-needed release from our 23-minute journey, but instead of the resolving chord your ears expect, the band goes slightly off-kilter at the very last minute. Jarring and jagged, just like the rest of this incredible album. You never know what to expect next; the music keeps messing with your expectations. That's a good indication that we're dealing with some masterful and very brave musicians here. Had this band received more popular acclaim in its day, it might not have been as willing -- or able -- to take so many musical chances. So maybe its relative obscurity was a blessing in disguise -- it meant the band never had to compromise what it did. And that was to every listener's benefit.

Whatever you do, get this remastered version of the CD. The bonus tracks are so-so, but the three songs that make up the original album sound light-years better than they did on the Caroline disc. This version brings out lots and lots of nuances that were hidden before -- luscious details that make this music all the more deep, rich, challenging, and ultimately very satisfying.

Average customer rating:

Queens Of The Stone Age side project mastery
~Mondo G~
Gonna bang in your face
wake me up and get me high!
An Intergalactic rodeo in space

Cocaine Rodeo
Mondo Generator
Manufacturer: Southern Lord
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Wretch

ASIN: B00004UEV5
Release Date: 2000-07-18

Tracks:

13th Floor
Shawnette
Uncle Tommy
Miss Mary Gets A Boob Job
Unless I Can Kill
PigMan
Simple Exploding Man (Extended Version)
I Want You To Die
Dead Insects
Cocaine Rodeo
Another Tension Head

Customer Reviews:

Queens Of The Stone Age side project mastery.......2003-01-31

I have been anxious to hear this album since discovering the mastery of QOTSA and upon dowloading the first song, I was slightly disappointed to hear a song from QOTSA's "Rated R". Nonetheless, my curiousity never faltered and I proceeded to seek out this album from Nick Oliveri and co. Much like QOTSA, Mondo Generator is a healthy and balanced blend of vaious styles of rock, not falling directly under the "stoner rock" mantra. It has a very unique blend of more punk rock a' la Black Flag or Bl'ast with some indie rock undertones that remind me of Shellac that is rounded off and solified with a stoner rock vibe. Much like QOTSA, there isn't a disappointing moment to be heard on this recording that should be sought after by those seeking something more than your average radio schlock.

~Mondo G~.......2002-07-09

nick was in the dwarves too, and recorded i want you to die in dwarves fashion on their come clean album. both albums are totally killer!!!

Gonna bang in your face.......2002-02-23

This is heavy aggressive damage and it's gonna bang in your face just like Westwood.

wake me up and get me high!.......2001-06-15

nick oliveri (formerly of kyuss, now of queens of the stone age with buddy josh homme) smokes it up on this album. i mean, he's really tearing it up on the songs (although it sounds as if he may have been stoned during some of the songs). any of you who enjoy space-rock/stoner-rock, or whatever the crap you wanna call it, should enjoy this recording. songs like "shawnette", about a girl with tourette's syndrome and wanting rampant sex, are rumbly anthems to the underground sound. then there's the punkier "i want you to die" (title says it all), reminiscient of hard core punk-rawk. the title track is a hick-country spoof about...duh!...cocaine! there is also a different version of the song "tension head" (also found on queens of the stone age R album). all the songs sound lo-fi, but all of them are amazing. buy it, love it, but don't smoke it.

An Intergalactic rodeo in space.......2000-08-31

Mondo Generator is a stoner band that consist of Ex Kyuss/queens of the stone age members. Cocaine Rodeo is a good release and will not leave stoner fans dissapointed after a couple of listens. Yes this is a stoner record but it is not a laid back psychedelic album. It is furious , hard and even has a touch of punk that makes this album more interesting and avoiding it being another stoner record without a name. Songs are well crafted and band plays like they are trying to demolish stonehenge with a huge wall of sound. Stoner fans shouldnt avoid or overlook this release.

Average customer rating:

Real Time: Royal Festival Hall
Van Der Graaf Generator
Manufacturer: Universal
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music

General | Rock | Styles | Music

Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music
ASIN: B000QUCX04
Release Date: 2007-08-01

Album Description

Limited Edition Japanese pressing of this album comes housed in a miniature LP sleeve. 2007.

Album Details

Japanese Limited Edition Issue of the Album Classic in a Deluxe, Miniaturized LP Sleeve Replica of the Original Vinyl Album Artwork. This is a Triple CD Set.

Average customer rating:

A mazing!

Dead Planet: Sonicslowmotiontrails
Nick Oliveri and Mondo Generator
Manufacturer: Mother Tongue
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music

General | Rock | Styles | Music

Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

Drug Problem That Never Existed
I Want You So Hard (Boy's Bad News)
Sick Sick Sick
Cocaine Rodeo
Licker's Last Leg

ASIN: B000H80KZU
Release Date: 2006-09-11

Tracks:

Like A Bomb
All The Way Down
Sonic Slow Motion Trails
Basket Case
Lie Detector
So High
Life Of Sin
Mental Hell
She Only Owns You
Take Me Away
I Never Sleep
All Systems Go
Paper Thin

Album Description

2006 release from former Queens Of The Stone Age/Kyuss member Nick Oliveri and his new band of Rock outlaws, Mondo Generator. Features Oliveri's unique take on Punk/Metal, Rock 'N' Roll and other forms of musical debauchery. Mother Tongue.

Album Details

2006 Album from the Former Guitarist from Queens of the Stone Age and Kyuss. His Punk Credentials Are Best Represented by his Tenure in the Dwarves, When He was Known as Rex Everything. On the Heels of Having Performed as a Guest Vocalist on Turbonegro's "Party Animals" Album Comes this Album, the First for Mondo Generator with Oliveri's Name Out Front.

Customer Reviews:

A mazing!.......2007-02-25

After hearing the title track, i was very impressed. and after all these listens that song still remains to be my favorite. very catchy, unique melody. I pretty much fell for this album, listening to it every-day for a week when i first for got it. This album has a lot of gems and a few duds. "like a bomb," "life of sin." But the others stand out. " lie detector, all the way down, she only owns you, so high," which so high was also on [drug problem] titled "so high, so low." Two short maniac songs, " all systems go, basket case." And you have guessed it, lots of screaming on the majority of the album. but when nick's not yelling his voice is melodic and clear. I have always enjoyed his voice, screaming too but regular, he has good pitch. As heard clearly on track 13," paper thin." Which actually is probably the 2nd best song on the album. There's also three cover songs. Including the ramones, " mental hell." and, Johnny cash's, " sam hall."(hidden) Johnny cash you say? But believe it or not, it sounds cool. Enjoyable, different. If you like quotsa and some of nicks vocals on quotsa tracks, " Another love song, quick and to the pointless, wake up screaming, six shooter, jet pilot, etc." You shall love this. Yes because its an import, its a bit pricey. Almost 30. But in the stores, its 20. It is worth it.

Average customer rating:

Awesome!
The band regroups in 1975 and releases a great album
Great for Late Nights by Yourself . . .
The Sundial Draws a Line Upon Eternity Across Every Number
the generator returns

Godbluff
Van Der Graaf Generator
Manufacturer: Caroline
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music

General | Rock | Styles | Music

Progressive Rock | Progressive | Rock | Styles | Music

Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music

Experimental Music | Miscellaneous | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

Still Life
Pawn Hearts
H to He, Who Am the Only One
The Least We Can Do Is Wave to Each Other
World Record

ASIN: B0009QZ4CE
Release Date: 2005-06-27

Tracks:

Undercover Man
Scorched Earth
Arrow
Sleepwalkers
Forsaken Gardens [Live][#][*]
Louse Is Not a Home [Live][#][*]

Album Details

Digitally Remastered Edition of Van Der Graaf's First Album after Lead Singer/Songwriter Peter Hammill Launched his Solo Recording Career.

Customer Reviews:

Awesome!.......2007-05-12

This band, if you give them a chance, grow on you. I've always loved 70's prog. This is the album to buy. Their earlier records are also good but they really came up with something unique on this one. If you like Prog, try this record. Give it few listens, even if it doesn't hit you at first, in a while you won't be able to get it out of your head.

The band regroups in 1975 and releases a great album.......2006-09-30

After nearly imploding from the stress associated with the intense tours of Italy in 1972, VDGG disbanded only to regroup for this great 1975 effort. Although the liner notes indicate that there were significant stumbling blocks when the music was first being put together, you would never know by listening to the compositions, all of which are strong.

The lineup on this album includes Peter Hammill (vocals, piano, acoustic/electric guitar); Hugh Banton (Hammond organ, piano, synthesizers, bass guitar); David Jackson (saxophones and flute); and excellent drummer Guy Evans. The performances are very good all around and Peter Hammill's aggressive vocal style is in great form.

In contrast with classic albums such as Pawn Hearts (1971), this album may not be musically as experimental and far-reaching but it still makes for a challenging listening experience. This is especially apparent in David Jackson's playing, which is also somewhat tamed down - he does not unleash the "free-jazzish" explosions of atonal notes on his saxophone as he did on earlier albums. I suppose this all sounds like I am complaining although I am not. There are some fantastic compositions on this album, and melodies are actually used very well. Overall, the VDGG "thing" is still present, albeit in a somewhat toned down manner - they seemed to want to loosen up, even if only a tiny bit.

In addition to the original tracks, this superb EMI remaster features two live bonus tracks including Forsaken Gardens (12'23") and A Louse is not a Home (10'26") - this track was originally featured on Peter's solo album The Silent Corner and the Empty Stage. Although the sound quality is pretty rough, the performances are out of this world and recall the band at their heaviest. One thing I feel compelled to point out is that the improved sound quality has really brought out the subtleties of Guy Evan's incredible drumming. In fact, all of the remastered VDGG albums are like that - it is just a shame they waited so long to remaster the catalog, Guy is just fantastic. In addition, the liner notes are extremely informative and feature a ton of pictures of the band (black and white).

This is a fantastic album from this period of VDGG and is highly recommended along with H to He, He who am the only One (1970); Pawn Hearts (1971); and Still Life (1976), which is a personal favorite. World Record (1976) is the last 1970s album to feature the classic lineup, although it is not nearly as good as Godbluff or Still Life.

Great for Late Nights by Yourself . . ........2006-07-16

. . . and other contexts, also, but this is largely the contemplative side of Hammill & Co., kind of picking up the pieces after the manic excesses that brought them to their peak on _Pawn Hearts_ (which would constitute anyones peak!). There are no real schizophrenic meltdowns like on their previous masterpiece, more a slow existential burn, that taken on its own virtues is very satisfying. It's just nowhere near as good as _Pawn Hearts_.

"Scorched Earth" exemplifies the plusses of this album perfectly. Featuring a slow pre-grunge chromatic riff as its centerpiece, it builds in segments like the best of VDGG, until they've spun considerable tension by the end of ten minutes. Every musician is on here, especially David Jackson and the formidable Guy Evans on drums.

"Arrow"--quite the memorable song, if not only for Hammill's shrill falsetto emanations after starting out in his lower registers--exemplifies both the plusses and (comparatively few) minusses of this album. Like every other song here, this is a slow-burner. It builds in its own time, like the best of VDGG (and the best of wines), but the recording is sub-par and Hammill sounds like he's singing under the sea (again, not in a good way like on _Pawn Hearts_'s "Plague of Lighthouse Keepers"). His falsetto does get annoying (doth he protest too much?), like I said before. The difference between his falsetto here and on _Pawn Hearts_ is that every instrument screeches when Hammill does and your lost in the Echoplex of your corpus callosum. On "Arrow" it's Hammill screeching over a by-and-large restrained supporting cast. Somehow the balance just seems off here.

In short, buy this album after you've had a proper introduction to the band (_Pawn Hearts_ and the earlier works like _H for He . . ._ and _The Least We Could Do is Wave . . ._). I think to start on this one might scare you off to the abundant joys of VDGG (if indeed disequilibrium is a joy to you). If you go through those and get to this one, you'll be able to appreciate it for what it is. A slightly flawed document of a master lyricist and his supporting musicians' journey upward from hell. They are still in hell here, but they are reflecting on it as they ascend, hence all the fascinating things they do with the slow burn.

The Sundial Draws a Line Upon Eternity Across Every Number.......2006-02-14

You know, for "geezer" fans like me who have already bought "Godbluff" and many, many other prog classics over the decades twice or more as new improved formats become available, these reissues are starting to get annoying. That is until we pull the shrink wrap off and experience again everything that made these recordings worth our investment of time and money in the first place.

I am not completely familiar with the full story of "Godbluff," but I do believe that this was their 1973 "comeback" album, after a brief break-up; singer/songwriter Pete Hammill had become wrapped up in his solo career, while keyboardist/drummer/sax-flautist Hugh Banton/Guy Evans/David Jackson retreated to Italy (where VDGG was a #1 chart-topping act) to record their interesting but not-spectacular "Long Hello" album.

Reuniting with "Godbluff," the quartet roared to life again in a HUGE way with this (skimpy by modern CD standards) 40 minute reaffirmation of their collective power. All four tracks are lucid, mighty testaments to the visionary talents of Hammill and company, but I most especially want to direct your particular attention to the track that scorches with the most frightful intensity: ARROW, track 3 (1st cut side two for us LP era neanderthals).

This is STRONG stuff, here folks, and not in a profane or cartoonish death-metal sort of way. Rather, it's all intensity and execution, starting with the fade-in bass & drum intro, skipping along nervously as Jackson's sax bleats in over the top to add some high-plateau drama to the soundscape. The musical suggestion of traveling by horseback across a barren landscape is evoked vividly before a single word is sung. Banton's Fender Rhodes (probably Hammill-there is NO GUITAR in this song) joins to bring this atmospheric stage-setter to a close, settling down to a sinuous opening statement of the song's theme, sustaining the final note like a snake poised on a desert stone waiting to strike--

Enter Hammill, roaring: "Stub towers in the distance, riders cross the blasted moor against the horizon." Simply transcribing the line can hardly invest it with the skullcrushing force of Hammill's delivery, in surely the most extreme match of material and performance of his career. "Arrow" is 9:47 of pure blood & thunder on trampling hooves, with Hammill riding high in the stirrups and screaming into the maelstrom, "what a crawl against the slope, dark loom the gallows--one touch to the chapel door, how swiftly comes the arrow."

And of course the band is at full gallop alongside Hammill, with Jackson & Evans stomping mercilessly with massed saxaphone & percussion. Save for a brief synthesizer break (fully in accord with the near-panic mood established at Hammill's first words), Hugh Banton keeps well to the background, but with the other three wailing at "11," the restraint becomes a valuable contribution in its own right.

Van Der Graaf, as I am again obliged to state, is NOT for everyone, and "Godbluff" (like their other CLASSIC record, "Pawn Hearts") is almost sure to scare off timid or casual listeners. To unattuned ears, it's rough, Hammill's voice is not "pretty" in the Michael Bolton sense, although Hamill was definitely capable of it. Here I recommend their second record, "The Least we can Do is Wave to Each Other" as a starting point for curious listeners; Hammill's voice is beautiful by any standard, especially on the plaintive "Refugees," a song that some movie director will eventually make a gigantic hit with when he leases it for his soundtrack.

Still for those adventurous enough to try something with some real brains & brawn, you've definitely stepped up to the Phd. level here. Van Der Graaf were not looking for chart-topping smashes, they were (are) artists fortunate enough to be chasing their muse at a time when commerce favored musicians in that pursuit. For those of us coming of age during that late '60's early '70's flowering of progressive rock, we now have a rich and vast body of work to discover (or rediscover) and reflect on for the rest of our lives. Including among many others but with special distinction, the great Van Der Graaf Generator, who after a 20 year hiatus have now fired it up again to release yet another reunion CD, "Present," now available on Amazon...

Let's give the last word to Peter, reflecting in his unique way on our mayfly existences; "How long the night is, why is this passage so narrow? How strange my body feels, impaled upon the arrow!"

the generator returns.......2005-10-15

a brief layoff, a solo album or two and a long a hello. then, 1975, there's godbluff. if you're reading this review, you're probably already interested. if you are a casual progger, then you should look away. there are no synths. there are no solos. there's only van der graaf. sax, organ, drums, vox and some clavinet on this one. and let me tell you, there's a lot of vox. i'm currently replacing my old vdgg cds and buying the reissues. this is one of the best. buy it for the sound alone, but the bonus live tracks only add to the experience. ph always said this was a band that bordered between chaos and control. not only do the studio tracks affirm this; the live tracks underline it. vdgg is a dangerous band.

Average customer rating:

Just a footnote
The review that never existed......
give me a hit, one or two
The Last ROCK album
The Last ROCK album

Drug Problem That Never Existed
Mondo Generator
Manufacturer: Ipecac Recordings
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music

General | Rock | Styles | Music

Alternative Metal | Hard Rock & Metal | Styles | Music

General | Hard Rock & Metal | Styles | Music

Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music
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Cocaine Rodeo
Desert Sessions Volume 7 & 8
The Desert Sessions Volume 9 & 10
Blues for the Red Sun
Welcome to Sky Valley

ASIN: B00009KATL
Release Date: 2003-07-21

Tracks:

meth I hear you callin'
here we come
so high, so low
do the headright
open up and bleed for me
all I can do
F.Y.I'm free
detroit
me and you
like you want
girl's like christ
day I die
jr. high love
four corners

Album Description

The joint Ipecac Recordings/Rekords Rekords release runs the entire nauseating, yet exhilarating spectrum of Oliveri-and-company's knee-to-the-groin arsenal. A Drug Problem that Never Existed runs the gamut from bare-assed naked in public and forced to beg acoustic guitar & voice ("Day I Die"), to teen-punk anthems delivered with bad-ass intensity ("Do The Headright," "Here We Come," "Jr. High Love"), to thrown-in-just-for-the-fuck-of-it singalongs that are impossible to shake ("So High So Low," "Me and You"), and epics of monolithic proportion ("Four Corners"). Produced by Nick Oliveri with Brad Cook (R.L. Burnside, Vandals, Foo Fighters) and infamous singer/carnival barker/pain-in-the-ass, Blag Dhalia of the Dwarves.

Album Details

Features Brant Bjork, Molly Maguire, Johs Homme, Mark Lanegan and Tony Van Leeuwen.

Customer Reviews:

Just a footnote.......2006-01-30

If you like this band, try Winnebago Deal. The 2 Bens that make up this extremely lively Oxford band are currently working with Nick on the next phase of MG, and they are brilliant, especially live. Well worth a look

The review that never existed.............2005-04-20

From punk rock to metal, from hard hit acoustic stories to bass maneuverability. Just the blueprint of Nick Oliveri shows a strategic design for the traits above. His bald head for less air resistance on fast paced slammers and agility. The gangling facial hair to show wisdom of such folk tales as 'All I Can Do". Yes, if Nick Oliveri was a car, I'd feel safe enough to left my girlfriend ride him....not really. Drug problem.. as an album has very few if no problems, they do not exist. Each song has its own flavor but as a whole blends in perfectly together. This is not a bag of M&Ms where each one if a different color but all taste the same. No no, this album is a 4 course meal. Each riff and each moment is different than the rest. It has looooooonggevity and the dexterity to affect you at any point in your life. I dont want to single out any songs as they all have a reason, point, flavor, and are all needed to make such a album. Great albums are the ones you cant just pick out peices, it's immpossible. Dont buy this looking for a Queens, Dwarves, Kyuss, or River Side Rapist (or is he in the bulimics?) album. Look for traits and aspects you love of those bands and you'll find them here along with much more. The most amazing trait about Nick is the ability to not be the same musician band to band to band. The most amazing part about Nick, is now this album.

give me a hit, one or two.......2003-09-16

I saw Mondo Generator opening up for the Melvins and Tomahawk. The show itself was one of the best rock n' roll nights of my life and Mondo Generator (the opening act) blew away the Melvins and Tomahawk. They performed a few cuts off of Cocaine Rodeo and then teased us with a few cuts from "A Drug Problem that Never Existed."
Now this is rock n' roll. Short, dirty, mean, with soul and LOUD. Nick's voice is in top form, Brant Bjork (another Kyuss veteran) is a brilliant drummer and Molly and Dave from Earthlings are a fierce rock duo. Dave Catching looks like he's eighty but man can he wail. Live he just pounds and caresses the sickest sounding riffs out of his Strat and struts around like the rock god he is. Molly has got to be a wild sex kitten, with her hands squeezing the neck of her bass and the short nurses outfit she'll have your tongue on the floor.
The highlights on this record are "Meth I Hear You Callin'" "So High, So Low" "Do the Headright" "All I Can Do" "F.Y. I'm Free" "Day I Die" and the epic "Four Corners."
On this record, Mondo Generator have given you the sonic equivalent of being strung out and sick. Its all here from the ecstasy, to the nausea, to the violent comedown. This is twisted , genuine music from a new scene of rock n' roll innovators. Buy it. While you're at it, get a t-shirt.

The Last ROCK album.......2003-07-31

This is a really great album from nick oliveri. In a Few words: This album rocks. its Way too much better tahn cocaine rodeo (but also rocks).

The Last ROCK album.......2003-07-31

This is a really great album from nick oliveri. In a Few words: This album rocks. its Way too much better tahn cocaine rodeo (but also rocks).

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