Rock Action

Editorial Reviews
Amazon.com
The Glaswegian lads in Mogwai continue to tinker with their instrumental rock formula. Whereas Young Team featured the loud-soft dynamic gleaned from Velvet Underground and Come On Die Young copped Sonic Youth's moody experimentalism, Rock Action adds a dash of Yo La Tengo's hushed ambience and Flaming Lips' studio-savvy playfulness (no surprise there--Rock Action was produced by Lips collaborator and Mercury Rev-ster David Fridmann.) Despite quoting from such a heavy lineup of musical mischief makers, Mogwai craft their own sound, largely due to the melodic narratives they conjure up in the interplay between the three guitarists. With hardly a spoken whisper in the mix, they manage to create great moments of drama, tension, and resolution. "Take Me Somewhere Nice" is a meandering journey toward the promised land, "You Don't Know Jesus" wanders with mystical and loopy abandon, and "Secret Pint" thrums in stately glory. One of the great things about Mogwai is that they are still so damned young--if they continue to kick against the pricks of their own invention we'll be hearing much more inventive and wonderful music from them in years to come. --Tod Nelson --This text refers to the Audio CD edition.

Tracks:

Turning Off The Tide
Waltzing's For Dreamers
1952 Vincent Black Lightning
I Misunderstood
I Feel So Good
Keep Your Distance
King Of Bohemia
I Can't Wake Up To Save My Life
Beeswing
The Ghost Of You Walks
Razor Dance (Voltage Enhanced)
Cold Kisses
Bathsheba Smiles
Cooksferry Queen
Uninhabited Man
Walking The Long Miles Home
Persuasion
Mr. Rebound
Fully Qualified To Be Your Man

Amazon.com essential recording

Eric Clapton had better marketing. That's the only way to explain why Richard Thompson isn't as famous as that other British guitar god. A brilliant, albeit subtle, guitar genius, Thompson writes wonderful songs that are sometimes rockin', sometimes haunting, and sometimes a little bit of both. And he presents them all in a voice that can only be called unique. Unlike most guitar heroes, Thompson is less based in the blues than he is in folk--dating back to his early years with the seminal Fairport Convention--but his has always been a folk music with bite and soul, adding things to the folk lexicon like rockabilly and zydeco. "Cooksferry Queen"--one of the 19 tracks on this compilation culled from the six albums Thompson released on Capitol between 1988 and 1999--features a guitar solo that's downright punk. Tracks like the semihit "I Feel So Good," "Razor Dance," and "Bathsheba Smiles" remain as exhilarating as anything you're apt to hear. Longtime fans will need to hear the three tracks previously unreleased on CD, including a new duet with son Teddy Thompson on "Persuasion" (co-written with Tim Finn) that is absolutely gorgeous. Ultimately, one longs for a box set that encompasses all eras (and labels) of this master's career, but Action Packed proves that the recent last third of it has been topnotch. --Bill Holdship

Customer Reviews:

One new thing.........................................2007-03-13

If you are a loyal RT fan and possess "Rumor and Sigh", "Mirror Blue" and all the rest perhaps the only reason you have to lay your hard earned down is "Persuasion" the only previously unreleased material in this collection. But what a reason; this is Richard and Teddy playing ,it singin' it, harmonisin' it and tellin' like it is. If you are not a die hard this is an excellent entry point all the classics are here Vincent Black Lightnin' ,Turning of the Tide ( a song for ex-wives everywhere) , I misunderstood (cosmic angst) The Ghost of You Walks and on and on.... superb guitar (a red fender never lets you down) & tight rhythm section(s) . There are many treasures on this album and then there is the incomporable Beeswing......... buy & enjoy.

Good 90s Summary.......2006-09-20

If there are low points in Richard Thompson's long and distinguished career, I've yet to hear them. While I'm not one of his devotees, I'd readily admit that all albums without exception, contain material other folk-blues purveyors would cry, if not die for. Yet the albums as entities are quirky, often jagged in their textures and tones. So, does a masterwork arise? Not for me, since,'Across a Crowded Room', or possibly, 'Hand of kindness' which brings me to this Capitol compilation which does beg the issues above. In short, it offers a terrific overview of a decade's worth of Thompson - Vincent, Beeswing, Razor Dance, Bathseba, Can't Wake Up...all sensational gems, which, given some interpretations by contemporary luminaries, still find their crucial edge in Thompson's shivering vocals.

Fans can never be objective..........2006-04-26

From the OBJECTIVE reviewer...to suggest Eric Clapton is more famous because of marketing mean some reviewer has too much wax in his ears. Richard isn't even close to the same league. Even as a "best of" it barely rises to the 3 star level.

sorry.......2005-05-22

i just don't like greatest hits much. i'm sure some of these songs are pretty good, but i'd have to say buy something like "shoot out the lights" instead.

Fine as a bee's wing.......2004-05-04

Some listeners may hassle over the selection, but this is a good grab for anybody who wants a single-disk survey of this phenomenal singer/songwriter/guitarist. I'd personally like to have "You Dream Too Much" on here too, but that doesnt make this collection any worse. The selections from You? Me? Us? are just right. Theres nothing wrong with the 3 new tracks either. The only problem is that Thompson's essential Capitol material exceeds the capacity of 1 CD. But if you need some RT in your collection, this is an excellent offering.

Last Action Hero: Music From The Original Motion Picture

Average customer rating:

A bit of a gem
5 Stars alone go to MEGADETH !!!
The action hero rocks out!
overlooked soundtrack
No alloys allowed -- pure metal

Last Action Hero: Music From The Original Motion Picture
Various Artists
Manufacturer: Sony
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Bill & Ted's Bogus Journey (1991 Film)
Last Action Hero: Original Score From The Motion Picture
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ASIN: B00000297D
Release Date: 1993-06-08

Tracks:

Big Gun - AC/DC
What The Hell Have I - Alice In Chains
Angry Again - Megadeth
Real World - Queensryche
Two Steps Behind - Def Leppard
Poison My Eyes - Anthrax
Dream On - Aerosmith
A Little Bitter - Alice In Chains
Cock The Hammer - Cypress Hill
Swim - Fishbone
Last Action Hero - Tesla
Jack The Ripper - Michael Kamen And The Los Angeles Rock And Roll Ensemble Featuring Buckethead

Customer Reviews:

A bit of a gem.......2006-11-29

I bought this soundtrack because it had a lot of big names in it that had recording songs specifically for the film. I love queensryche and Megadeth and was pleased to find that both songs by these artists were just what I'd expect, excellent quality and well produced. Especially the atmospheric 'Real world' by queensryche which was more reminiscent of the later half of their empire album, which in my opinion was queensryche at their best. I have to argue with the people who say that this album sounds too 80s, because it doesnt at all. The bands most popular in the early 90's such as Def Leppard, megadeth, Queensryche and Areosmith are on here because this soundtrack is made in the early 90's! It does boast a lot of early 90's 'hair metal' material, but it also has a mix of more heavier rock with Anthrax and Alice in chains, and a little of alternative rap or something along those lines. Some of the songs aren't great, but overall the album has a good sound to it and is just what you'd expect from an early 90's action movie soundtrack. Megadeth does it again with another hardrocking made for soundtrack effort. Def Leppard also produces a nice acoustic ballard that really shows their musical maturity during the early to mid 90's. Alice in chains were lucky enough to get two songs on there, both of them reasonably good, but a bit of a step away from their earlier stuff. The main theme by telsa really sells the early 90's hair rock image of the album, but really gives a feeling of nostalgia for the film. Buckethead makes a guest appearance on the last track just to top the album off. Its a fairly decent album, but only worth buying if you can get it cheap I think. If your looking for a great hard rocking soundtrack I recomend Bill and Teds Bogus journey soundtrack.

5 Stars alone go to MEGADETH !!!.......2006-10-12

The Megadeth song Angry Again is a good enough reason to buy this CD. I'm not a huge Megadeth fan, but that song is awesome. I can listen to it all day. It is for me the best Last Action Hero song and makes me think of the movie. Other good songs are the Alice In Chains song What The Hell Have I , which has some excellent music, again I'm not a big fan of AIC either, actually haven't heard much of them, anyway the song is cool and reminisent to the movie. Big Gun by AC/DC is ofcourse quitye good too, but nothing can top Megadeth-Angry Again !
The Fishbone song is also pretty good too.
The song by Anthrax is actually listenable and an amazing achievment for them. Actually the whole cd has I think the best song ever made by these bands featured (even if they were made specifically for the movie). It's like I never liked these bands that much except Megadeth, but here on this complilation they seem like pretty good bands (even Anthrax). Aerosmith makes a clssic for the movie aswell. And Def Leppard are one of the legends from the 80's which I never listened to, it's a soft song but suits the movie. The Queensryche songs is not bad either. Never heard of Tesla but they sound like Faith No More in their early days, not bad. And the last track which is by Michael Kamen And The Rock And Roll Ensemble Featuring Buckethead is a good song and is something different aswell.

So overall, I'd say this cd is definetely worth having if you liked the Last Action Hero movie, yes the movie was a bit dodgy, but that's what I like about it.

The action hero rocks out!.......2006-04-19

Now this is the way an action movie soundtrack should sound.

Massive kudos to the people who scored all these tracks. One cursory glance at the track listing should be all it takes to sell you on picking this up.

Seriously, AC/DC come blasting off the starting blocks with Big Guns (a minor hit in some territories) and then Alice in Chains pump out What the Hell Have I. It's pretty meaty and there is a plethora of more awesome tracks along the way. Sure Def Leppards Two Steps Behind sucks and Fishbones 'Swim' gets a little tired but it's more than saved by cool stuff like Anthrax, more AIC and a tasty party rock cut by Tesla that just burns on down the highway.

And despite the different bands juxtaposed here the whole thing hangs together as a coherent whole. Which ain't easy to do. Take a big swig of this!

overlooked soundtrack.......2006-02-13

For Anthrax fans,"poison My Eyes is the best on here.the alice in chains rocks also

No alloys allowed -- pure metal.......2005-08-03

There are no half measures with this CD. Either you like metal or you should leave now. This soundtrack, in support of the movie of the same title, goes all the way to the edge of the cliff and then tumbles over that edge. Fire heated and hammer hardened on an anvil by sweaty, burly men toiling in hot, smoky forges, these tracks make you want to ride far and fast. No alloys allowed. Pure iron and carbon. AC/DC's "Big Gun" is a hand ground, razer sharp offering that cuts clean and deep. It is worth the price of the album. The tracks by Alice in Chains, Megadeth, Aerosmith, Anthrax and Queensryche will knock the carbon out of your hog and make it purr like a milk-fed kitten. A good addition to the CD collections of those daring enough to ride toward the horizon and explore the world of metal.

Average customer rating:

One Thee Best Bands Not Known!
Freakin Awesome!
Dig a little deeper
Average
Not a fan of rap rock, BUT....

Hot Action Cop
Hot Action Cop
Manufacturer: Lava
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Grind
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Menace to Sobriety
Playmate of the Year

ASIN: B00008DCSV
Release Date: 2003-03-04

Tracks:

Doom Boom
Goin' Down On It
Don't Want Her To Stay
Fever For The Flava
Busted
Face Around
Club Slut
The Special
Show Her
Alayal
Why Judy
In A Little While

Album Description

Nashville based quartet blend harmony drenched pop, hedonistic hip-hop, and Dirty South energy into a syncopated sonic stew all their own. Lava label. 2003.

Customer Reviews:

One Thee Best Bands Not Known!.......2007-01-12

It's hard to put them in a specific group of music... closest would be "rap-rock" but funnier, and harder than Kid Rock, Limp Bizkit, & Linkin Park combined! Plus if you've ever heard their stuff done acoustic style (unfortunately there's no acoustic stuff on this album) but if you've ever heard it, you would be blown away... they have talent, they can sing, harmonize, and play damn good music! If you're a rock fan get them, if you're a rap rock fan, get them... if you just like good music (and i'm not counting country or traditional rap) then get this cd, kick back and rock on!

Freakin Awesome!.......2007-01-03

I absolutely love this CD. It took a little while to grow on me seeing as how I am mostly a hardcore/metal fan, but I really dig it! Think white-boy, hip-hop/rock. It's really fun, party music with interesting lyrics and funky beats. I still enjoy blasting this CD and dancing around the living room. HA!

Dig a little deeper.......2005-04-23

There are simply too many people out there that take music way to serious and there are those who want to lump everybody into a certain category. I'm a person that likes music that is just pain out FUN! Yea, HAC is a little bit Rap Rock...but there are so many other influences that you can hear such as Red Hot Chili Peppers, Fishbone, Porn music (yea the album is a little dirty), etc. I don't think Limp Bizket or Linkin Park at all when i listen to these guys. They are their own band.

This album is not one that your kids will study in their music appreciation class but I bet they will still be able to groove to it. So i give it 5 starts because when i'm driving its a great album to put the windows down and turn the stereo up.

Average.......2005-03-08

Im gonna have to give this cd 3 stars.Because it's just too freakin' perverted!.Maybe if they just turned it down just a knoch maybe id give it 5 stars.

Not a fan of rap rock, BUT...........2005-02-22

I give it three stars. It's great. It's dirty, and I absolutely LOVE one song and that's Fever for the Flava.

The video is great!

This was another one of my random DIRTY music buys. I have to say, I'm glad I bought the CD simply for that song because it absolutely ROCKS.

Other than that, the rock rap is there, and I'm not a big fan of it. But I have to say, that it's worth it, for that one song. It's AWESOME!

*grins*

Average customer rating:

The Positive Mental Attitude of Howard Jones
I think its his best.
Ho-Jo's Sophomore Success
80's Master
"We must live to fight the negative"

Dream into Action
Howard Jones
Manufacturer: Elektra / Wea
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Cross That Line
One to One
The Best of Howard Jones
In the Running
People

ASIN: B000002H2F
Release Date: 1990-10-25

Tracks:

Things Can Only Get Better
Life In One Day
Dream Into Action
No-One Is To Blame
Look Mama
Assault & Battery
Automaton
Is There A Difference?
Elegy
Specialty
Why Look For The Key
Hunger For The Flesh
Bounce Right Back
Like To Get To Know You Well

Customer Reviews:

The Positive Mental Attitude of Howard Jones.......2007-07-10

Once Howard Jones got a hit record and a little clout from "Humans Lib," he took advantage of the opportunity to craft his thoughts and philosophies into "Dream Into Action." It was, when I first got it in 1985, an album I thought I'd want to take with me to a Mountain Climb. Not like I'd ever be able to climb a mountain, but the songs here were so positive and forthright that they made you feel that you could conquer anything in your path.

It is also Howard Jones' best album. Afterwards, Jones seemed to become more a popstar and less personal, which isn't altogether bad. "One to One" is almost as good as "Dream Into Action," but more as a popcraft album. The thing that stands out on this CD, as on almost all of Jones' best songs, is his innovative work on the keyboards. "Things Can Only Get Better" is one of the best 80's synth-hits, right up there with The Human League and fellow pioneer Thomas Dolby's "She Blinded Me With Science." The range on this album is broader than any Jones made after, as he was experimenting with styles from the piano ballads, like "No One Is To Blame" (a deserved hit once Phil Collins remixed it) and even a poorly advised attempt at rap on "Bounce Right Back." The vegetarian anthems have NOT aged well, either.

But the strong points were the songs that promoted raising self-esteem. The title cut, the hits and others, like "Look Mama," "Specialty" and "Elegy," just oozed with respect for individuality. Jones was still young and hungry, and riding a wave of exciting music when he and many other artists were out to change the face of pop. With "Dream Into Action," he can be secure in saying that he had a hand in that shift. He can also say that he cut an album that, to this day, can make an old fan feel that wave of positive inspiration.

I think its his best........2005-11-05

One of my first albums I bought as a kid. I still love it after all these years. It holds up as one of rhe greats. Melodic synth music.

Ho-Jo's Sophomore Success.......2005-06-16

This album was a natural evolution from Howard Jone's debut hit album Human's Lib. Not only was this evolution welcomed, but it was expected. Where Human's Lib was a product of a one man band having a chance to show his talent Dream Into Action was an expansion of that.

Now Howard has a successful album on his resume and the record label gave him more to work with. What does he do with his newfound credibility? He beefs up his music with more intricate instrumentation and more refined studio engineering. The end result is a bigger sound. Now Howard can stop being a one-man band and get more musicians. The music on this album reflects that. You will notice a full brass horn section complimenting the music much like stuff from the band Chicago. You will hear more intuitive drums and percussion now that he has drummers. You hear all sorts of added sounds that weren't present in Human's Lib. The end result is a very different sounding album, but with the same Howard Jones charm.

The lyrics are along the same lines of Human's Lib with a lot of social guidance with songs like THINGS CAN ONLY GET BETTER and BOUNCE RIGHT BACK, but now you have some love songs like NO ONE IS TO BLAME and LIKE TO GET TO KNOW YOU WELL. All of these songs are just as fun and catchy as is previous album. Then you get songs that deal more with social issues personal to Howard like ASSAULT AND BATTERY, which is a strong slant for vegetarianism (which Jones is). Interestingly enough that's my favorite song musically if not lyrically.

Howard Jones was a major influence to me musically. Dream Into Action is probably his most successful album, and deservedly so. 80's synth-pop fans should be able to enjoy it even if the style more organic than electronic. Any regular 80's fan MUST have this album as it shows a very influencial artist of that era at the height of his popularity and songwriting savvy. Go get it.

80's Master.......2005-03-27

This album was the first cassette I ever bought. I played it over and over for years. I can't think of another album with such mysterious dark themes to it, despite some of the more upbeat singles like "Life in one day". My personal favorites are probably "Dream into action" and "Automation".This album really captured the mid-eighties in a time capsule. No one to this day has used technology in pop music quite as well as Howard did on his first 4 albums especially this one. A-ha? Alphaville? Maybe, but it's good company. Probably not going to appeal to today's youth, you kind of had to be there in the time-frame to truly appreciate this music. I just wish they'd remaster this.

"We must live to fight the negative".......2005-01-09

Howard Jones had several synthesizer/drum machine-driven pop hits in the 1980s, the most well-known of which were "What Is Love?" and "Things Can Only Get Better" (on this album) which can be found on a number of 80s compilations. He is also known not only for his eccentric wardrobe & hairstyle and for being a one-man show but for the positive message he incorporated in his music. I saw a television feature on him a few years back and was impressed to learn how many people were touched by his songs and how his songs helped some of his fans get through tough times. It's rather cliché and sometimes just silly when people say how some cheesy pop tune saved them from suicide, and usually they are insincere. The people in this feature, however, seemed very genuine about the ways Jones' music touched their lives. Jones also seems like a very nice fellow. I decided to check out Dream Into Action (great album title).

Several songs off this album are on his greatest hits CD. Strangely, I found most of these tracks to be the weakest on the album. I've always liked "Things Can Only Get Better" with its bouncy synthesizer hooks. "Life in One Day," though, is my least favorite on the album. It is too funky (for lack of a better word), too cutesy and cheesy for my tastes. I always skip that song. "Like to Get to Know You Well," while upbeat, is very repetitive. "No One Is To Blame" was produced by Phil Collins and, like a lot of Collins' music, it is a play-it-safe pleasant ballad with nothing too ingenious or unique. "Look Mama" (also on the greatest hits CD) is an interesting track. Lyrically, it is rather childlike ("Look mama I love you but you gotta let me live my life") but is musically a little experimental which is what I like about 1980s electronic pop.

The tracks I like the best here are the ones where the instruments take control. My favorite is "Assault and Battery." Rather than driven by synthesizers, this track is seized by the piano and sounds very innovative Joe Jacksonesque. "Bounce Right Back" is a dance track with versus sung in a street style. Think maybe Oran Juice Jones "Somebody's Watching Me" style; more talking than singing; possibly a style that was a precursor to rap. The title track is another of my favorites. It is a clever electronically experimental track. It has an industrial sound (not NIN type of "industrial" but a factory sounding synthesizer style). "Automaton" is another electronically-driven track with some innovation. Of the rest, "Elegy" is the most somber number of this mostly optimistic album ("Is it wrong to long for death? Must I cling to the thrills of life?") yet still offers a light at the end of the tunnel ("Take us forward through this tomb, there's no finish to a life"). "Hunger for the Flesh" is another slow and interesting track. It reminds me of early 1980s Genesis (a slow, toned-down "Home By the Sea," maybe). "Is There a Difference?" is the only other track that I usually skip. It is a little too cheesy, Thompson Twinesque for me. In sum, if you know Howard Jones' hits and are considering checking out his albums, Dream Into Action has plenty to offer. It offers 14 tracks (two of which are not on my copy, including "Specialty") with enough variety to please most any 1980s pop fan's tastes. The tracks I think are the best of the dozen (i.e. "Assault and Battery," "Dream Into Action," and "Hunger For Flesh") are probably the ones that are not played as often. If you are curious, give this album a try.

Average customer rating:

My biggest disappointment being that I didn't discover them until now.
+1/2 -- Mod turns heavy on shelved 1967 classic
Very Good Brit Psych
Very good transitional album from Action to Mighty Baby!
Are you people shills??

Rolled Gold
Action
Manufacturer: Reaction Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Action Packed
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ASIN: B00006AL7G
Release Date: 2002-07-30

Tracks:

Come Around
Something to Say
Love is All
Icarus
Strange Roads
Things You Cannot See
Brain
Look at the View
Climbing Up the Wall
Really Doesn't Matter
I'm a Stranger
Little Boy
Follow Me
In My Dream

Customer Reviews:

My biggest disappointment being that I didn't discover them until now........2007-06-19

As a self proclaimed coinsurer and collector of lost mid to late 60's and early 70's quality psychedelic & serious pop music, I was completely blown away the first time I listened to The Action's "Rolled Gold" CD. I am baffled that a band this good somehow got overlooked or escaped attention. The song melodies are so addictive and listenable that they continue to play in your head for hours afterwards, and this is not to say that the songs are simple and repetitious in nature. Quite the opposite, the songs often have numerous and complex key transitions but they all fit together smoothly. Not a whole lot of bands back then had the musical savvy and skills to pull this off and still sound fluent. The Beatles, Hollies, Spirit, Yes, and early Traffic were a few of the good bands that could, and The Action fits right in with the best of these bands. A few of my favorites are "Come Around", "Something to Say", "Things You Cannot See", and the especially addictive "Strange Roads" with it's swoopy and loopy guitar riffs! My biggest disappointment has been the knowledge that I didn't discover them until now. No kidding!

+1/2 -- Mod turns heavy on shelved 1967 classic.......2007-05-03

Having failed to break out of the clubs as a mod band in the mid-60s (despite sponsorship from George Martin and a deal with EMI), the Action entered 1967 with some heavier sounds in mind. Their Small Faces-like R&B sound was still at the core, particularly in Reggie King's vocals, but their compositions, playing and production had been liberated by the flourishing acid culture. These aren't the studio-crafted sounds of the Beatles' Revolver or the minor-key brilliance of The Zombies, but they're of the same stripe.

The songs were no longer rave-up trifles for pilled-out dancers, and the lyrics weren't aimed at the radio. One could draw a parallel to San Francisco's Moby Grape, in that the Action balanced depth and brevity. In contrast to the Fillmore-styled hippie jams that would prevail later in the year, the Action managed to free up their instrumental playing with flights of psychedelic guitar and song structures that went beyond verse-chorus-verse, but at the same kept to three- and four-minutes. This is the sound of what was coming in "Odyssey and Oracle," "Ogden's Nut Gone Flake," "S.F. Sorrow," and other touchstones of the era.

As others have noted, there's a transitional quality to these tracks, one foot in the mod clubs and one foot into the psych world of UFO and the Haight-Ashbury. Amazingly, these recordings were shelved by EMI, and only rumored to exist until their release 35 years later. So while they appeal as missing links in retrospect, they didn't actually have any first-hand impact. Today they retain their magic and power, even more impressively for being demos rather than finished tracks. The playing is a bit rough in spots and the sound quality isn't as sparkling as EMI was capable of recording in 1967, but those are trifles - this still sounds fantastic. 4-1/2 stars, if allowed fractional ratings. [©2007 redtunictroll at hotmail dot com]

Very Good Brit Psych.......2006-05-24

This is apparently a transitional album from "Action" to when the group morfed into "Mighty Baby" The album is clearly beginning to embrace psychedelia with songs like "Brain". You can still here its brit rock roots sounding a bit like the who. Mighty Baby" the group was purely psychedelic from it's more elaborate arrangements and longer songs.

Very good transitional album from Action to Mighty Baby!.......2004-10-14

I was quite surprised by this CD. I first heard of the Action from the Nuggets II boxed set. It was definitely a mod-oriented sound. One day I picked up Mighty Baby's first album and was surprised to learn that they were composed of many of the musicians from the Action.

This is clearly an album of transition - the music leans toward psychedlia while Reg King's vocals remind me of early action. The use of harmonies are very well done and the production is also quite good. If you like this you should definitely check out Mighty Baby!!

Anyways...here's my indiv track scores.
1. Come Around - 5
2. Something to Say - 5
3. Love is All - 4
5. Icarus - 5
6. Strange Roads - 5
7. Things you Cannot see - 5
6. Brain - 4
7. Look at the View - 4
8. Climbing Up the Wall - 4
9. Really Doesn't Matter - 5
10. I'm a Stranger - 4.5
11. Little Boy - 2 (I don't like this song)
12. Follow Me - 5
13. In My Dream + demo - 5

A Very good album!!

Are you people shills??.......2004-07-30

I swear, on Amazon every obscure band that was ever put on wax has a 5-star rating proclaiming them as good as the Beatles, etc. This Action offering is perhaps listenable, but hardly "cream". Three stars, and that's being generous. All I can say is, thank goodness for sampling.

Average customer rating:

CD had a scratch down the middle
Nice Sophmore Effort
Underrated Album
alice for president
Alice Cooper - 'Easy Action' (Capitol)

Easy Action
Alice Cooper
Manufacturer: Wea International
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Pretties for You
Muscle of Love
Love It to Death
Killer
Special Forces

ASIN: B0000575U4
Release Date: 2005-04-25

Tracks:

Mr. & Misdemeanor
Shoe Salesman
Still No Air
Below Your Means
Return of the Spiders
Laughing at Me
Refrigerator Heaven
Beautiful Flyaway
Lay Down and Die, Goodbye

Album Description

1989 remastered release, accurately referred to as 'the great undiscovered' Cooper album originally released in 1970, features 9 tracks produced with the help of David Briggs (Neil Young) that run the gamut from Zappa to Bowie, and perhaps inspired both. Enigma Retro.

Album Details

Alice Cooper's Second Studio Album from 1970 was Produced by David Briggs (Know Later for his Work with Neil Young) and Stands as Another of the Pillars of the Acid Rock Underground of the Time. Released on Frank Zappa's Bizarre Label, it Continued their Ascendancy to Rock's Heights of Fame.

Customer Reviews:

CD had a scratch down the middle.......2007-06-14

Very quick shipping but the CD had a scratch that made it not play correctly on some of my various players, but it did play on the better ones, so I'm not complaining, just alerting the seller to double check products closely.

Nice Sophmore Effort.......2006-12-07

The Alice Cooper Band's second album sees the band still recording for Frank Zappa's label. The music starts to turn in the direction of the material that would later make them famous. No real macabre stuff yet, but the album is definitely a progression from their first one. The album was produced by David Brigs who is probably best known for working with Neal Young. The opening track, "Mr. And Misdemeanor" has always been a favorite of mine and a great example of Alice's talent for playing on words. "Shoe Salesman", "Below Your Means", "Return Of The Spiders", and the short but cool "Refrigerator Heaven" are all good tunes. The finale of "Beautiful Flyaway" and "Lay Down And Die, Goodbye" is also a great way to end things. The Alice Cooper band would be signed to Capitol and hit the big time with their next release. "Easy Action" would be a strong stepping stone to get to that point.

Underrated Album.......2006-08-16

Easy Action is one of the highest underrated albums I've ever heard in my love for classic rock music. It is my personal favorite of the first seven Alice Cooper albums consisting of the original band members. I strongly recommend this album to anyone who is a die-hard Alice Cooper fan, or to anyone who enjoys "feel music." There are lyrics in this album which would later re-appear in future albums.

alice for president.......2005-11-29

I stumbled across this album,(and it's predecessor,"pretties for you") sort of by mistake-(the best mistake I ever made). As a young teen, I had heard "I'm Eighteen" and "Ballad Of Dwight Fry" on the radio and I was IMMEDIATELY hooked. I just HAD to have the album these two songs came from. Not knowing the name of the album those two songs were from, I started to randomly buy Alice Cooper records. First I bought this one, then pretties for you. Though I didn't get the two songs I was looking for, I was NOT disappointed. Alice became my NUMBER ONE FAVORITE rocker instantly!! The heavy guitar work is what did it for me,(at the time, I was just starting to learn to play guitar). The guitar work on those two albums topped ANY guitar work I had heard before. It was not only excellent, it was so different than what everyone else was doing at the time,(the style, the sound, the raw grittyness, etc.), Not to mention the powerful vocals Alice belted out. Together with Dennis' bass and Neil's drums, this WAS a band to be reckoned with! Oh yea, I eventually found out which album "Eighteen" and "Dwight fry" were on and bought it too, along with every other album Alice would ever make!!

Alice Cooper - 'Easy Action' (Capitol).......2005-09-27

Originally released in 1970,as this was the original band's second lp.About as good as the first effort 'Pretties For You'(see my review).As I remember,BOTH albums were pretty much a stiff UNTIL 'Billion Dollar Babies' became a million seller.After the Alice Cooper Group had become world known,that's when fans became interested in their early works such as 'Easy Action'.You can hear their Zappa influence.As for myself,I've never been that much of a Frank Zappa fan.Also felt the band's first two records showed just how much Alice&crew were,in fact ahead of their time.'Easy Action' is like part weird psychedelic and part hard rock.Tunes here I thought were impressive include "Mr.&Misdemeanor","Below Your Means","Return Of The Spiders"(dedicated to Gene Vincent)and "Lay Down And Die Goodbye".One of Cooper's lesser known gems.Recommended.

Average customer rating:

ROCK ACTION!!!! YEAH!
Brilliant
Could have been a masterpiece
The only thing better than listening to this album, is seeing them live!
I change my mind - 2 and a half stars

Rock Action
Mogwai
Manufacturer: Matador Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Young Team
Come on Die Young
Ten Rapid (Collected Recordings 1996-1997)
Lift Your Skinny Fists Like Antennas To Heaven
f#a# (infinity symbol)

ASIN: B00005AUBA
Release Date: 2001-04-24

Tracks:

Sine Wave
Take Me Somewhere Nice
O I Sleep
Dial: Revenge
You Don't Know Jesus
Robot Chant
2 Rights Make 1 Wrong
Secret Pint

Amazon.com

The Glaswegian lads in Mogwai continue to tinker with their instrumental rock formula. Whereas Young Team featured the loud-soft dynamic gleaned from Velvet Underground and Come On Die Young copped Sonic Youth's moody experimentalism, Rock Action adds a dash of Yo La Tengo's hushed ambience and Flaming Lips' studio-savvy playfulness (no surprise there--Rock Action was produced by Lips collaborator and Mercury Rev-ster David Fridmann.) Despite quoting from such a heavy lineup of musical mischief makers, Mogwai craft their own sound, largely due to the melodic narratives they conjure up in the interplay between the three guitarists. With hardly a spoken whisper in the mix, they manage to create great moments of drama, tension, and resolution. "Take Me Somewhere Nice" is a meandering journey toward the promised land, "You Don't Know Jesus" wanders with mystical and loopy abandon, and "Secret Pint" thrums in stately glory. One of the great things about Mogwai is that they are still so damned young--if they continue to kick against the pricks of their own invention we'll be hearing much more inventive and wonderful music from them in years to come. --Tod Nelson

Customer Reviews:

ROCK ACTION!!!! YEAH!.......2006-06-18

Such a beautiful composition. Couldn't relate to anyone who was not moved by such a work; in fact I'd likely want to murder them. Just kidding!?

Bottom line is, for me, this is Mogwai's masterpiece (thus far), capturing both their amazing sense of technical, sonic subtlties and bringing in their most resonant, loving melodies. It's so wonderfully sad.. so tenderly glum. The first two tracks alone bring more out of my soul than virtually any modern music being written.

My favorite music makes me think of, you know, certain things -- most prominately the things that I cherish.. Things that, despite my gross affection for, I don't always have time to meditate on for whatever reason (and there are certainly many). Myself, loved ones, the world at large...God. Like one of my favorite albums, Godspeed You Black Emperor!'s "Slow Riot for New Zero Kanada", "Rock Action" is so perfectly melancholy that you'd wonder if their could possibly be a more moving piece of music that doesn't touch with its glorifying mournfulness. Pretty music is always pretty, but the world is not pretty. It is both horrendous and simultaneously full of the most amazing possibilities; this contrast, for me, allows any artist to bring out the most in my Human spirit. C.S. Lewis stated somewhere that if the world was perfectly beautiful and content, there would be no reason to question the existence of God. And most understand that without suffering there is no potential for empathy, at least in this world. So, for me -- especially at this point in time, where the general heart of Man seems far fallen from its home -- this type of music can offer so, SO much. You just have to go along with your imagination.

It's unfortunate that a part of me can get so much out of this music while, admittedly, I still maintain a good feeling of spite for those who would dismiss the music for their own personal reasons. But, coming to grips with that is a personal issue that I need to attempt to overcome... If you have (or haven't), but have a reservation within your soul for haunting, benevolent sounds of grace, please divulge... For you and me.

Brilliant.......2006-04-20

No one can measure up to Radiohead, but these guys get close. If you want a cool band to amaze you, this is it.

Could have been a masterpiece.......2006-03-14

This is their album I feel that is both a gift and a curse..A gift in being some of their most focused, sincere, well produced songwriting and a curse to not hear nearly enough of it..If this was an ep, it should get a freakn prize, but it simply leaves me wanting more as a full length..Is it right to put out a few lush, gut bustingly beautiful songs coupled with other tracks of ambient and instrumental minimalism? Only if you have enough tracks to somehow justify it to the listener...It would have been great if instead of several nice ep's, the band could have tried harder for such an important transitional release..I say that with the utmost respect for the band and for at least half of this album's tracks, but to come off of the brilliant effort Come on Die Young, and announce a huge stylistic change with electronics taking much of the foreground as well as guest vocalists helping to "clean up" mogwai's sound, should have garnerd more attention to a total product..Thankfully it did not; in retrospect one can see the band was merely trying on different outfits and knew deep down that what got them to that point was an unflinching attention to fluctuations in repetition

The only thing better than listening to this album, is seeing them live!.......2005-07-23

Anybody who hasn't heard Mogwai, and is looking to get into them should buy this album, as in terms of Mogwai's outstanding ability to create gorgeous tracks, this throws you right in at the deep end.
Personally my favourite album by the band, closely followed by Happy Songs... I beleive the music contained on this CD is Mogwai incarnate, as it is almost perfect, delivering spine tingling explosions of sound that will never leave you, and it's amazing that every time you hear these songs a new noise or layer becomes apparent, which adds the overwhelmingly simple complexity of it all - never before have I heard such a technically simple album with so much to offer (being a fan of The Dillinger Escape Plan and Converge to name a couple).
Also, along with all the praises I've attached to the album so far, it has an unairing ability to put you in a reflective mood as soon as it starts, and is great to listen to if you need to think about something or reminis to... it's THAT powerful.
This is without a doubt one of the best albums I have heard, if not 'the' best!
The only problem with this album is that it is to short, which makes it less than perfect, otherwise it would be - but if, nay, WHEN you want more after hearing this album, move onto Happy Songs For Happy People!
Buy this album, you will never be sorry and these timeless songs will never fail to impress you. Ever!

I change my mind - 2 and a half stars.......2005-05-22

To all those expecting literal "rock action": the title is meant to be tongue-in-cheek.
It took me a couple of listens to really get into this - I listened to it two times in a row right after I bought it. The album is a little short, my main gripe. But its subtlety and grace add width and depth to make up for it.
My first listen was disappointing; I kept waiting for something truly exciting to happen. But about halfway through I started to embrace the album's distant and mellow feel. By the end, I was really enjoying the swelling beauty and intricacy of the sound. My second listen was more rewarding, as I was prepared/trained for what was to come, while still eager for surprises. There are many layers to this enigmatic offering, and I imagine yet more listenings will help peel them away. The vocals are understated and the lyrics nearly inaudible, but they both fit nicely into the groove of the recording. The drumming was a real treat, as it seemed to rise and fall in perfect rhythm with the other instruments. The overall mood of this album is bittersweet, honest and hopeful - predictably sad, but deceptively simple.
On second thought, Rock Action is nebulous and unrewarding. I sold it. By the way, there IS such a thing as taking "understated" too far.

Average customer rating:

Johnny Rivers in Action!/Changes
Johnny Rivers At His Best
In Action

Johnny Rivers in Action!/Changes
Johnny Rivers
Manufacturer: Bgo - Beat Goes on
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Rewind/Realization
Rocks The Folks/Meanwhile Back At The Whiskey A-Go-Go [2 on 1]
And I Know You Wanna Dance/Whisky a Go-Go Revisited
Slim Slo Slider/Home Grown
L.A. Reggae/Blue Suede Shoes

ASIN: B0000011PB
Release Date: 2002-02-15

Tracks:

Mountain of Love
Promised Land
I Should Have Known Better
I'm in Love Again
Rhythm of the Rain
He Don't Love You, Like I Love You
Cupid
Oh, Pretty Woman
It's All Over Now
What Am I Doin' Here With You
Moody River
Keep A-Knockin'
By the Time I Get to Phoenix
Taste of Honey
Days of Wine and Roses
California Dreamin'
Do You Want to Dance?
Cast Your Fate to the Wind
Poor Side of Town
If I Were a Carpenter
Softly as I Leave You
Shadow of Your Smile
Strangers in the Night
Getting Ready for Tomorrow

Album Description

Digitally remastered reissues of his 1965 Imperial and 1966 Liberty albums, respectively & on one CD. A total of 24tracks, including 'Promised Land', 'Oh! Pretty Woman' and 'Cupid'. Also features additional sleeve notes and the original cover art of each. 1998 BGO release.

Album Details

Two Albums from 1965 and 1966 on a Single CD. Both Are Studio Recordings (As Opposed to the Many Live Albums Rivers Seemed to Record in his Career). Produced by Lou Adler and Arranged by Marty Paich.

Customer Reviews:

Johnny Rivers in Action!/Changes.......2006-08-05

I only wanted the the Changes album. I bought it because it brought back memeories for me and someone special. The other songs ruin the mood.

Johnny Rivers At His Best.......2005-03-07

Although nearly all the songs are cover versions but Johnny just did well with his own style. Songs like "I Should Have Known Better", "Rhythm Of The Rain", "Moody River" & "Do You Wanna Dance" are "THE BEST COVER VERSIONS" I've ever heard. Also contains the smash "Poor Side Of Town". If you are a diehard Johnny Rivers fan, you won't be disappointed.

In Action.......2000-07-14

I feel that this album deserves the best rating anyone can give because the vocals, music and the energy put into it are fabulous.

Average customer rating:

i can't think of a better way to start the morning!
Really, really, good.
Groove For The Average Man
Pretty good jazz-rock fusion
Amazing!

Action Figure Party
Action Figure Party
Manufacturer: Blue Thumb
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Make Some Noise
What Happened to Television?
III
Out Louder
Husky

ASIN: B000059QIV
Release Date: 2001-05-22

Tracks:

Everybody Ready
Action Figure Party
Pong Baby
Gamera
No Sleep
Clock Radio
Where's The Moment
George & Cindy
Gettem
Green
The Clapper
Flow

Amazon.com

Keyboardist Greg Kurstin is best known as a founder of the eclectic rock combo Geggy Tah. With Action Figure Party, Kurstin steps out of character to create what could be described as an interesting collision between the Beastie Boys' groovier work and Steely Dan's sophisticated mix of jazz and pop. Kurstin's percolating electric keyboard work kicks out catchy melody after catchy melody, and he also takes a vocal turn on a couple of tracks. Kurstin hasn't forgotten his friends, and here he's supported by a crew that reads more like the A-list at the Viper Room than a list of sidemen for a groovy jazz album (Flea appears, as does Sean Lennon--on turntables no less). But even with his revolving crew, Kurstin keeps the music fun and focused--the songs have a taut pop polish and memorable melodies that truly hold up under repeated listens. And that was likely his objective from the beginning of this project. --Tad Hendrickson

Customer Reviews:

i can't think of a better way to start the morning!.......2006-06-08

this album is great-Greg Kurstin totally takes it to another level from his geggy tah days. The roster of guest appearances is also great from the turntable skills of Sean Lennon to the drum styles of Jose Pasillas II (of Incubus fame) and not to mention the amazing bass work of Flea (R.H.C.P.). This is one for your collection.

Really, really, good........2004-06-09

I listen to Joe Zawinul, Wayne Krantz, MMW, Greyboy Allstars, The Bad Plus, Vertu, Trilok Gurtu, Blue Dog, etc... GET THIS ALBUM. It always makes it back to my cd player no matter how many times I put it away.

Groove For The Average Man.......2004-02-19

If you're looking for a way into the daunting world of Jazz and Funk, this disc might just be the door. This album is loaded with tight keyboard improvizations and funky little riffs that are gonna keep spinning in your head. The good and bad part is, it's not very sophisticated jazz; in other words, it's not as heavy as Medeski Martin and Wood, nor as classy as Count Basie. But if you're interested in acid jazz or lounge, you'll probably really like Action Figure Party.

I also recommend: Jamiroquai, Akimbo, The Brand New Heavies, Groove Collective.

Pretty good jazz-rock fusion.......2003-10-25

This is a fairly entertaining jazzy keyboard disc. There are two vocal songs, "Action Figure Party" and "Clock Radio" which aren't that good (maybe I'm dense and not understanding the lyrical meaning, or maybe the words are awfully banal). The rest of the album is instrumental, and Greg Kurstin plays a variety of piano and keyboard sounds. He's an excellent player. The songs are fairly straight-forward, so they're accessible, if a bit light.

Amazing!.......2003-10-01

I saw Action Figure Party open for Barenaked Ladies and bought the cd before concert was even over. I was definitely not disappointed. Granted some of the songs are better than others but as a whole the album is a great listen. I've owned it for almost 2 years now and it's still one of my top 10 most played. I've bought several copies for friends. Go out and get this cd, you won't be sorry!

Average customer rating:

SKROONK!
Respect mah authoritay!
best album!
The ultimate Albini.
Overrated Mon Arse!

At Action Park
Shellac
Manufacturer: Touch & Go Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Hairway to Steven
Bullhead
Downward Is Heavenward
Houdini
Pink Flag

ASIN: B0000019KU
Release Date: 1994-10-24

Tracks:

My Black Ass
Pull The Cup
The Admiral
Crow
Song Of The Minerals
A Minute
The Idea Of North
Dog And Pony Show
Boche's Dick
Il Porno Star

Customer Reviews:

SKROONK!.......2006-05-04

The noise-rock project Shellac is perhaps the pinnacle of Steve Albini's career and the "Touch & Go" sound pioneered by labelmates Slint, Don Caballero, and The Jesus Lizard.

And this 1994 album is their finest hour, full of bulldozing rhythms courtesy of Todd Trainer (drums) and Bob Weston (bass), screeds of metal-on-metal guitar clang that sound like nobody else in the business, and of course Steve's caustic, hateful voice. Needless to say, if you're looking for pretty melodies or other embellishment, At Action Park will be anathema to your John Mayer-loving ears while the resident noise junkies and rivetheads (raises hand) will have our colons stomped and relish every bloody minute of it. Of course, with maturity comes some refinement, and while this isn't the vengeful Roland-powered killing machine of young Albini's Big Black, Shellac comes up with more creative and tighter songwriting and minimalist grooves, mixed with the perfect production clarity. Think Slint, if they rocked harder.

Now for the breakdown. My Black Ass kicks the album off perfectly with a chugging, brutal rhythm and wall 'o' feedback squall. Pull The Cup is a brief but catchy math-rock instrumental. The Admiral has a damned catchy refrain ("it comes as no surprise that he was taken by surprise")--radio-friendly? Nah. Crow is a menacing rant that aims straight for the throat. Song of The Minerals is anchored by a seriously addicting macro-dub bassline and Steve's nihilistic declaration that "It's your arms, it's none of my business/It's alright if it makes you feel better." A Minute is a short, punky track with an awesome revolving riff that resolves in a killer, headbanging conclusion. The Idea of North is a short, blissful Slint-like reprieve with Albini's gentlest vocal delivery (which is merely quietly spiteful). The Dog & Pony Show and Boche's D!ck return to the prior cynical, white-hot grinding fury. Closer Ill Porno Star has Steve recounting the tale of an individual with an unusual physical "talent" over even more six-string abuse.

The other Shellac albums (Terraform, 1000 Hurts) are great, but At Action Park is the best and most consistent, without question. If your idea of indie rock is closer to Drive Like Jehu and Fugazi than Neutral Milk Hotel and Bright Eyes, you can't live without this one. Crank this bad mofo 'till you shred the wallpaper.

Respect mah authoritay!.......2005-11-12

Just in case his work with Big Black and Rapeman didn't provide him with enough indie cred, in the mid-90's Steve Albini made a triumphant return with Shellac, a noise-rock agglomeration that continued Albini's exploration of the darker sides of both music in particular and human nature in general. In contrast to the compelling if diffuse rage and perversity of Big Black's legendary swansong Songs About F***ing, Shellac's debut At Action Park is a devastatingly precise and intelligent battering ram of an album. Coupling the raw, indie-centric ethic that made Albini notorious with tricky rhythms, mathy arrangements, and winding song structures, At Action Park is a prime distillation of the years of underground rock history that preceded it. Everything here is carefully measured for maximum visceral impact, with the end result being a lean, ruthlessly efficient piece of aural abuse that's as intelligent as it is abrasive.

The opener My Black Ass is a perfect summation of Shellac's musical mission, with the violent stabbing motions of Albini's guitar married to Todd Trainer's halting drumbeats and the doomy chug of Bob Weston's bass. The next track, the scathing, pseudo-industrial Pull the Cup, continues in the same vein, except the lack of vocals makes it sound like something Don Caballero's evil twins might do. The Admiral is a metallic, headbanging number that manages an odd catchiness, but as the rest of the album makes clear, Shellac were more concerned with gut-punching you than making you move. The Crow is a more typical piece: pure menace, Albini emotionlessly intoning his ominous vocals over a disemboweling rhythm section, with shards of guitar noise only occasionally intruding on its evil atmosphere. Another classic, Song of the Minerals, is built on a hypnotic, unsettling drone that burrows its way deep into your subconscious while Albini's vocals become steadily more unhinged before exploding into shouts of "It's alright if it makes you feel better!" The band does show some aptitude for the eerily minimal thing as well with The Idea of North, a (relatively) subdued mood piece whose guitar noise and drumbeats lull more than pummell. Of course, the band quickly returns to malevolence with the lurching metal-on-metal scrape of the delightful Dog and Pony Show. The brief Boche's Dick wavers and staggers like a drunk before kicking into full dementia mode about halfway through, while Il Porno Star is high-end musical math whose sparse guitar lines and steamrolling bass rhythms are augmented by the jazzy complexity of Trainer's drum work.

By the time the album ends with one of Albini's pointed screaming fits at the conclusion of Il Porno Star, it's clear he had another classic album on his hands. I'd even submit this album is superior to Songs About F***ing: smarter, more mature, and even scarier for it. I don't have the other two Shellac albums, but At Action Park has guaranteed them a spot at the top of my "to buy" list.

best album!.......2005-10-01

i love this band and this is the very best album. the end.

The ultimate Albini........2005-08-29

As other reviewers have noted this is THE Shellac album. The other two albums, though they have their moments, aren't even a quarter as good as this and i can't see any other future Shellac album (the new one is due sometime in 2007, i believe) coming anywhere near this.

When this came out it blew people away as it there had been nothing quite as monolithic as this in underground rock before. Two brilliant singles had preceeded this that hinted at what Albini, bassist Bob Weston and drummer Todd Trainer were capable of but i don't think anyone quite expected anything this gargantuan and brutal. It's the sound of Albini's skronked out guitar duelling with the hugest locomotion of a rhythm section you've ever heard in yer life in total synergy. Sound hitting sound, ricocheting and reverberating into negative space only for another jagged guitar skree stab to rip the air apart and that dense, hypnotic juggernaut of a rhythm section to come rumbling out of thin air and floor you again and again and again. My god, it's beautiful, in a pummelling, menacing, neck snappingly dynamic and propulsive kinda way BUT it's not just a relentless pursuit of velocity vs. mass/time as, beneath that guitar and intertwined in those bass and drums, are truely great songs, something the other 2 Shellac albums have lacked at times. After "spiderland" this has to be the best album Touch And Go have ever put out.

I don't really have anything to add to this that hasn't already been said. The main reason i wrote this review is in the hope that someone from Touch And Go reads these reviews. Dear Corey Rusk : PLEASE put out a mini album of the two Shellac singles that came out before this album as well as their AC/DC cover. Thanks.

Overrated Mon Arse!.......2005-03-07

All of Shellac's Albums are worth owning. All have a different character, Terraform's grueling monotone like a teenagers first (successful) attempt at c____lingus, 1000 Hurts' outright songs, from which you can get a more lucid glimpse of Albini and Weston's sense of humor, and, of course, At Action Park, which of the three I agree is the best because it is the most buoyant and dense of the catalog. At Action Park keeps the rhythm going throughout, sometimes even maintaining a sense of catchy-ness, like on The Admiral, a marching, face-punch dictum, "It comes as no surprise he's taken by surprise.." Shellac, and particularly this album are pure rock on par with Crass, The Ex, or even ZZ Top, though you'd be hard-pressed to find influences amidst the brilliant signature sword-clangs of Steve Albini's guitar.

Music:

Music

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Too Loud for the Snowman

Black Angels / String Quartet

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Elton Exposed: Revealing the Jazz Soul of Elton John

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Cry Holy

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Classic Country Christmas

Chiquitita

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