Defined [Content/Copy-Protected CD] [Content/Copy-Protected CD]

Amazon.com
The five, young, good-looking and classically trained singers who comprise Amici Forever have a lot to offer. They have taste, and they make, for the most part, beautiful sounds (one of the sopranos is wobbly; the other singers--a soprano, two tenors and bass-baritone--are splendid). Their debut CD, The Opera Band, has sold over a million copies. Their arrangements, though somewhat sappy, are attractive, and they're very imaginative with both classical and pop repertoire. I Amici are not just good singers who add a beat to the classics; they think things through. Defined offers a fine arrangement of the Allegretto of Beethoven's 7th Symphony with a text that turns it into a Hymn to Liberty; a Bocelli-Celine Dion duet has been transformed into a densely harmonic quintet; an original work tells a Maori legend; Dalila's "Mon ceur s'ouvre a ta voix," once past the wobbly soprano, becomes a fine blend; Rachmaninov's 2nd Piano Concerto and Rodrigo's "Concerto de Aranjuez" form the basis for two other pieces. This is a handsomely produced album which could alert pop fans to some beautiful classical melodies and, in and of itself, it's good listening. --Robert Levine

Defined,Rupert Christie,Tomaso Albinoni,Salvatore Cardillo,David / Sager, Carole Bayer Foster,Ronan Hardiman,Ennio Morricone,Frank / Kaballa Musker,Nick Patrick,Giacomo Puccini,Joaquin Rodrigo,Camille Saint-Saens,John Themis,Miles Bould,Jo Appleby,Tsakane Valentine,David Habbin,Geoff Sewell,Elmear Quinn,Amici Forever,RCA,20th/21st Century Music for Voice and Keyboard,Adagio for Orchestra,Classical,Classical Crossover,Classical Pop,French Romantic Opera,Italian Romantic Opera,Opera,Opera / Operetta / Oratorio,Orchestral,Rock/Pop,Solo Voice(s) and Orchestra,Vocal,Vocal Music

---

Defined [Content/Copy-Protected CD] [Content/Copy-Protected CD]

Average customer rating: Audio Ambrosia A fine CD ruined by over-aggressive copy protection Fantastic Well Arranged but Overproduced Copy protection dangerous and unlawfull

Defined Amici Forever Manufacturer: RCA Victor ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by Albinoni | Albinoni, Tomaso | ( A ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Puccini | Puccini, Giacomo | ( P ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Saint-Saëns, Camille | ( S ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Baroque (c.1600-1750) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Vocal & Song | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music Romances | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music French | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Italian | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music General | Easy Listening | Pop | Styles | Music General | Vocal Pop | Pop | Styles | Music Opera & Vocal | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Similar Items: The Opera Band Ancora Opera Band Il Divo Follow Your Heart ASIN: B00099HFJ6 Release Date: 2005-06-21

Tracks:

1. La Fiamma Sacra (The Sacred Flame)
2. Nella Fantasia
3. The Prayer
4. Aranjuez Ma Pensee
5. So Far Away
6. Nostalgia (La Mia Nostalgia)
7. Core 'ngrato (Ungrateful Heart)
8. Land & Freedom (Terra e Liberta)
9. Mon coeur s'ouvre a ta voix
10. Recondita armonia
11. Adagio
12. Ocean Heart (Oceano Cuore)

Amazon.com

The five, young, good-looking and classically trained singers who comprise Amici Forever have a lot to offer. They have taste, and they make, for the most part, beautiful sounds (one of the sopranos is wobbly; the other singers--a soprano, two tenors and bass-baritone--are splendid). Their debut CD, The Opera Band, has sold over a million copies. Their arrangements, though somewhat sappy, are attractive, and they're very imaginative with both classical and pop repertoire. I Amici are not just good singers who add a beat to the classics; they think things through. Defined offers a fine arrangement of the Allegretto of Beethoven's 7th Symphony with a text that turns it into a Hymn to Liberty; a Bocelli-Celine Dion duet has been transformed into a densely harmonic quintet; an original work tells a Maori legend; Dalila's "Mon ceur s'ouvre a ta voix," once past the wobbly soprano, becomes a fine blend; Rachmaninov's 2nd Piano Concerto and Rodrigo's "Concerto de Aranjuez" form the basis for two other pieces. This is a handsomely produced album which could alert pop fans to some beautiful classical melodies and, in and of itself, it's good listening. --Robert Levine

Customer Reviews:

Audio Ambrosia.......2007-01-10

Amici Forever is one of the finest singing groups to come along in many, many years. Their musicality is awe inspiring.

A fine CD ruined by over-aggressive copy protection.......2006-08-12

The CD shown here is the infamous disk inflicted upon the listening public by SONY/BMG/RCA which has resulted in several law suits because of its inclusion of a particularly nasty bit of spyware/malware (a "root kit") which is buried in any Windows computer system into which the disk is inserted, innocently or otherwise. It is a spectacularly stupid, sneaky, and downright mean attempt to control copying of the disk's contents, and as such it has earned universal opprobrium after its discovery and publicizing by a third party. This disk has been recalled and owners of it (such as me) may supposedly return it for replacement with a non-infected version.

My first bit of advice on the recording, then, is either to return it for exchange or put a note on it to warn against insertion into a computer. Alternatively, if you have the equipment, software, and ability, you may capture its music by playing it in a regular CD player with a cable connection to your sound card's input. A stereo analog audio cable connection will do, but if you have it, a digital SPDIF connection will do even better. My infected CD, by the way, is labeled as RCA Victor 8 2876 68883-2. (Further information/discussion of the CD's problems can be found on the Internet.)

The replacement version of this CD, the 2006 Australian Tour Edition, with two "bonus" tracks and presumably free of the rootkit, is also listed on Amazon.

I am a newcomer to Amici Forever (though they've been around awhile) and no fan of "fusion" music in general, but I bought the disk because some of my friends are fans and I wanted to see for myself what they were like. In general, I must say that I rather like this disk, though it is obviously something quite distinct from the classical music from which much of it is derived. It is a transformation of familiar classic tunes into a populist genre characterized by strong emotional intensity, highly synthesized and sonically processed sound, and often prominent percussion effects. (The waveforms show clear evidence of volume-limiting, with sustained passages right up to the allowed maximum. This creates the effect of great loudness and intensity, even passion.)

The singers possess very fine voices for this idiom, which seems partly an outgrowth of the "Three Tenors" phenomenon. A good bit of the singing is in Italian, but English is well represented, along with bits of Spanish, French, and even background Maori.

I think these pieces should be treated as creations in their own right (even though many are derivative) and judged on their own merits as to musical appeal, imagination, and artistry.

"La Fiamma Sacra" (the sacred flame) is sung in English, despite its Italian title, and tells the story of a low-born man endowed with the gift of a singing voice which destines him to greatness. It is sweet, sentimental (not wishy-washy!), and altogether loveable.

"Nella Fantasia" (in a fantasy or dream) is widely known as a tenor vehicle derived from Morricone's film soundtrack for "The Mission." (I believe Bocelli and Watson, among others, have recorded it.) It is sung in Italian, and is very fine and satisfying in this version.

"The Prayer" (la preghiera), a composed song in Italian and English, is also widely known, especially in the version by Bocelli and Dion. Here it is no less delightful with five voices instead of two.

"Aranjuez Ma Pensee" (Aranjuez my thought) though titled in French is sung in the Spanish appropriate to its subject, the historic town just south of Madrid. The tune is a well-known and gorgeous theme from Joaquin Rodrigo's guitar concerto "Concierto de Aranjuez" set with words to make it a kind of love song for a place. The words are lovely and poetic and the piece is hauntingly and exotically beautiful. (Rodrigo is buried in Aranjuez, and I doubt if this borrowing makes him turn over in his grave.)

"So Far Away" is another love song for a place, this time New Zealand, "the land of the long white cloud." It is a very nice composed song sung in English with ethnic touches (a celtic pipe and background chorus singing in Maori). It has an irresistible loveliness.

"Nostalgia" (la mia nostalgia) is a derivation from Rachmaninov's immensely popular and often quoted second piano concerto. It is a song of loneliness and longing for a past love whose music tells the story without the need to understand the Italian words.

"Core 'Ngrato" (ungrateful heart) is an old Neapolitan chestnut sung in Italian dialect by tenors from as far back as Caruso and on up to today's cohort. It complains of the lover's mistreatment by the unappreciative Catari. It's a fine, impassioned song, and this group does not stint in its presentation.

"Land & Freedom" (terra e liberta) is perhaps the most surprising inclusion here, for it is a transformation of the supremely beautiful second movement of Beethoven's Symphony No. 7 into another song of nostalgia for a beloved place, now distant or even vanished, associated with freedom, music, and poetry. In this Italian language song, the composer uses Beethoven's own exquisite countermelody, along with his strikingly lovely harmonies. With music from such a master, how could this song be anything but transcendant?

"Mon Coeur S'Ouvre A Ta Voix" (at your voice my heart opens) is the most popular aria from Camille Saint-Saens' opera "Samson and Delilah," sung by Delilah to express her love for Samson (with some response by him). This arrangement, which becomes a duet, preserves much of the original, and is properly ecstatic as sung in the original French.

"Recondita Armonia" (hidden harmony) is another well-known aria, this time the tenor Cavaradossi's song about his fascination with the contrasting beauties of two female figures (from Puccini's opera "Tosca"). Here he gets support from other Amici members, but the music itself is left mostly intact, except for the instrumental accompaniment and vocal expansion. It's quite convincing.

"Adagio" is another borrowing from a purely instrumental classic, Albinoni's adaptation of pre-existing tunes to create his immensely popular "Adagio for Strings." The voices here follow the interweaving melodic lines of those strings, singing the newly-supplied Italian words of a lover's yearning for his absent love, and ending with "I feel beating within me this music which I invented for you." The result of this fusion of the very old with new words and vocal/instrumental sounds is likely to be much more accessible to most of today's hip-hop generation than the original, for all its classic elegance and beauty.

"Ocean Heart" (oceano cuore) is another instrumental music adaptation, being a setting of new Italian words to an arrangement of music from Aram Khatchaturian's ballet "Spartacus." The original music here is much less familiar than that of the other two, perhaps emboldening the arranger to take a bit more liberty (a new countermelody is added to the composer's own tune). This attractive, more midstream arrangement may waken many new ears to Khatchaturian's lovely, pensively yearning melody.

In summary, I applaud Amici Forever for their success in translating some of classical music's finest products into a form likely to appeal to a much wider audience than heretofore. This is not for everyone though: classical music purists will likely reject it as overblown, overheated, and just too remote from the original versions. Those with parochial musical tastes may dislike its cosmopolitan nature with untranslated foreign words. Still, youngish people who embrace the world's diversity and who were brought up in the tradition of rock concerts will probably find much enjoyment in the sheer vibrancy and musical pleasure here.

So, within its genre, I give the music of this disk 5 stars, but its physical embodiment in an infected CD merits no stars at all, rather, a big raspberry!

Fantastic.......2006-02-26

These are truely wonderful singing voices,backed up by a beautiful orchestra.The first song actually gave me chills.I can't wait to buy another one of their CD's.I recommend it highly to anyone who loves REAL music.

Well Arranged but Overproduced.......2006-02-20

This is a novel concept for opera lovers and fans. There are some original songs and also some classic arias and ensembles with a modern update. Most of the pieces have been "enhanced" with additional voices (e.g. an aria sung as a two-soprano piece, with three male voices as backup).

Unfortunately, this album has so much echo and reverb that it is almost impossible to hear the artists' actual voices. If you just like opera music, this is a wonderful album, but if you are a student of the operatic voice, look elsewhere.

Copy protection dangerous and unlawfull.......2006-01-20

Copy protection is unlawful. ENCRYPTED MUSIC TAKES AWAY OUR RIGHTS AS AMERICAN CITIZENS. STAND UP FOR YOUR RIGHTS AND DON'T BUY THIS ARTISTS MUSIC!

Average customer rating:

Defined by Struggle Nodes of Ranvier Manufacturer: Victory Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Hardcore | Hardcore & Punk | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Post Hardcore | Hardcore & Punk | 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 Similar Items: Messengers Deliver Us Last Kind Words Ithyphallic Genesis ASIN: B000ROACTI Release Date: 2007-07-24

Tracks:

1. Sermon
2. Valjean
3. Endless Faith
4. Purpose in Pain
5. Wrathbearer
6. Defined by Struggle
7. Archegos
8. Sergeant Sorrow
9. Nagheenanajar
10. Confront
11. Infidelity

Average customer rating: Romantic, Talented, and Sensual SONY's attempt at self-redemption?

Defined Amici Forever Manufacturer: Sony / Bmg Import ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music General | Vocal Pop | Pop | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music Broadway & Vocalists | Imports | Stores | Music Classical | Imports | Stores | Music Pop | Imports | Stores | Music Musicals | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Similar Items: Opera Band Amici Forever: In Concert The Opera Band Defined Siempre ASIN: B000DZV61O Release Date: 2006-01-30

Tracks:

1. Fiamma Sacra [The Sacred Flame]
2. Nella Fantasia
3. Prayer
4. Aranjuez Ma Pensee
5. So Far Away
6. Nostalgia [LA Mia Nostalgia]
7. Core 'Ngrato [Ungrateful Heart]
8. Land & Freedom [Terra E Liberta]
9. Mon Coeur S'Ouvre a Ta Voix
10. Recondita Armonia
11. Adgio
12. Ocean Heart [Oceano Cuore]
13. Power of Love
14. We Are the Champions

Album Description

TO CELEBRATE AMICI FOREVER'S FORTHCOMING AUSTRALIAN TOUR, THE "OPERA BAND'S" STUNNING NEW ALBUM 'DEFINED' WILL BE RE-ISSUED AS A VERY SPECIAL TOUR SOUVENIR.THE "DEFINED: 2006 AUSTRALIAN TOUR EDITION" WILL CONTAIN TWO BONUS TRACKS; 'THE POWER OF LOVE' AND 'WE ARE THE CHAMPIONS TOUR DATES' AND WILL FEATURE STRIKING NEW ARTWORK.

Album Details

Special Australian Version of the Second Album from the Classically Trained Group of Operatic Vocalists. This Edition features Exclusive Artwork and Two Added Songs to the Original Album Lineup: "The Power of Love" and "we Are the Champions".

Customer Reviews:

Romantic, Talented, and Sensual.......2007-07-23

This and all Amici albums go from my house, to my car, to my office. I find them to be the perfect mixure of romantic Opera story telling and contemporary orchrestration. Great for a dinner party or to concentrate at work. Outstanding.

SONY's attempt at self-redemption?.......2006-08-02

The CD shown here is apparently the new edition of the infamous disk inflicted upon the listening public by SONY/BMG/RCA which resulted in several law suits because of its inclusion of a particularly nasty bit of spyware/malware (a "root kit") which would be buried in any Windows computer system into which the disk might, innocently or otherwise, be inserted. It was a spectacularly stupid, sneaky, and downright mean attempt to control copying of the disk's contents, and as such it earned universal opprobrium when it was discovered and publicized by a third party. The infected disk has now been recalled and owners of it (such as me) may supposedly return it for replacement with a non-infected version.

My first bit of advice on the recording, then, is to check carefully to insure you do not have an infected disk. (SONY's website has a list of their recordings, complete with disk numbers, which contain the rootkit, and, yes, there are sadly a number of them.) If you determine you have such a disk you should either return it for exchange or put a note on it to warn against insertion into a computer. My infected disk is labeled as RCA Victor 8 2876 68883-2. (Further information/discussion of this topic can be found on the Internet.)

The present recording, the 2006 Australian Tour Edition, presumably is clear of spyware and, I suppose as an apology of sorts, includes two "bonus" tracks. (I don't have this copy, so I will only comment on the first 12 pieces.)

I am a newcomer to Amici Forever (though they've been around awhile) and no fan of "fusion" music in general, but I bought the disk because some of my friends are fans and I wanted to see for myself what they were like. In general, I must say that I rather like this disk, though it is obviously something quite distinct from the classical music from which much of it is derived. It is a transformation of familiar classic tunes into a populist genre characterized by strong emotional intensity, highly synthesized and sonically processed sound, and often prominent percussion effects. (The waveforms show clear evidence of volume-limiting, with sustained passages right up to the allowed maximum. This creates the effect of great loudness and intensity, even passion.)

The singers possess very fine voices for this idiom, which seems partly an outgrowth of the "Three Tenors" phenomenon. A good bit of the singing is in Italian, but English is well represented, along with bits of Spanish, French, and even background Maori.

I think these pieces should be treated as creations in their own right (even though many are derivative) and judged on their own merits as to musical appeal, imagination, and artistry.

"La Fiamma Sacra" (the sacred flame) is sung in English, despite its Italian title, and tells the story of a low-born man endowed with the gift of a singing voice which destines him to greatness. It is sweet, sentimental (not wishy-washy!), and altogether loveable.

"Nella Fantasia" (in a fantasy or dream) is widely known as a tenor vehicle derived from Morricone's film soundtrack for "The Mission." (I believe Bocelli and Watson, among others, have recorded it.) It is sung in Italian, and is very fine and satisfying in this version.

"The Prayer" (la preghiera), a composed song in Italian and English, is also widely known, especially in the version by Bocelli and Dion. Here it is no less delightful with five voices instead of two.

"Aranjuez Ma Pensee" (Aranjuez my thought) though titled in French is sung in the Spanish appropriate to its subject, the historic town just south of Madrid. The tune is a well-known and gorgeous theme from Joaquin Rodrigo's guitar concerto "Concierto de Aranjuez" set with words to make it a kind of love song for a place. The words are lovely and poetic and the piece is hauntingly and exotically beautiful. (Rodrigo is buried in Aranjuez, and I doubt if this borrowing makes him turn over in his grave.)

"So Far Away" is another love song for a place, this time New Zealand, "the land of the long white cloud." It is a very nice composed song sung in English with ethnic touches (a celtic pipe and background chorus singing in Maori). It has an irresistible loveliness.

"Nostalgia" (la mia nostalgia) is a derivation from Rachmaninov's immensely popular and often quoted second piano concerto. It is a song of loneliness and longing for a past love whose music tells the story without the need to understand the Italian words.

"Core 'Ngrato" (ungrateful heart) is an old Neapolitan chestnut sung in Italian dialect by tenors from as far back as Caruso and on up to today's cohort. It complains of the lover's mistreatment by the unappreciative Catari. It's a fine, impassioned song, and this group does not stint in its presentation.

"Land & Freedom" (terra e liberta) is perhaps the most surprising inclusion here, for it is a transformation of the supremely beautiful second movement of Beethoven's Symphony No. 7 into another song of nostalgia for a beloved place, now distant or even vanished, associated with freedom, music, and poetry. In this Italian language song, the composer uses Beethoven's own exquisite countermelody, along with his strikingly lovely harmonies. With music from such a master, how could this song be anything but transcendant?

"Mon Coeur S'Ouvre A Ta Voix" (at your voice my heart opens) is the most popular aria from Camille Saint-Saens' opera "Samson and Delilah," sung by Delilah to express her love for Samson (with some response by him). This arrangement, which becomes a duet, preserves much of the original, and is properly ecstatic as sung in the original French.

"Recondita Armonia" (hidden harmony) is another well-known aria, this time the tenor Cavaradossi's song about his fascination with the contrasting beauties of two female figures (from Puccini's opera "Tosca"). Here he gets support from other Amici members, but the music itself is left mostly intact, except for the instrumental accompaniment and vocal expansion. It's quite convincing.

"Adagio" is another borrowing from a purely instrumental classic, Albinoni's adaptation of pre-existing tunes to create his immensely popular "Adagio for Strings." The voices here follow the interweaving melodic lines of those strings, singing the newly-supplied Italian words of a lover's yearning for his absent love, and ending with "I feel beating within me this music which I invented for you." The result of this fusion of the very old with new words and vocal/instrumental sounds is likely to be much more accessible to most of today's hip-hop generation than the original, for all its classic elegance and beauty.

"Ocean Heart" (oceano cuore) is another instrumental music adaptation, being a setting of new Italian words to an arrangement of music from Aram Khatchaturian's ballet "Spartacus." The original music here is much less familiar than that of the other two, perhaps emboldening the arranger to take a bit more liberty (a new countermelody is added to the composer's own tune). This attractive, more midstream arrangement may waken many new ears to Khatchaturian's lovely, pensively yearning melody.

In summary, I applaud this new version of the CD for its success in translating some of classical music's finest products into a form likely to appeal to a much wider audience than heretofore. It's not for everyone though: classical music purists will likely reject it as overblown, overheated, and just too remote from the original versions. Those with parochial musical tastes may dislike its cosmopolitan nature with untranslated foreign words. Still, youngish people who embrace the world's diversity and who were brought up in the tradition of rock concerts will probably find much enjoyment in the sheer vibrancy and musical pleasure here.

So, within its genre and assuming it's free of nasty software surprises, I give it 5 stars.

To the older, infected CD, I give nothing but a big raspberry!

Average customer rating: Brooklyn-Detroit -German Style Tech. in 1 CD From Bad To Better

Sonic Groove: Defined Frankie Bones With Adam X. & Heather Heart Manufacturer: Instinct Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music General | Techno | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music General | Dance Pop | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music General | Dance & DJ | Indie Music | Stores | Music Techno-House | Dance & DJ | Indie Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Act Like You Know Computer Controlled: Live in California Computer Controlled, Vol. 2: Live in California Army of One You Know My Name ASIN: B00005NC2E Release Date: 2001-08-14

Tracks:

1. System V.01 - Force Legato
2. Sexuality - Blake Baxter
3. Powerbass - Kevin Sauderson
4. Space Cake - Marduk
5. Broken Windows - Adam X
6. all The Way Home - Frankie Bones
7. After It's Done - Reade Truth
8. Lazed In U - Miss Dinky
9. Deggman - Polaris
10. Do it Again - Chris Jackson
11. Shock Tone - Reade Truth
12. Snapped - Adam X
13. Warhead - Distorted Waves Of Ohm
14. Punchbag - Justin Berkovi
15. Advertising - Polaris
16. Parameter - Directional Force
17. Blizzard - X-Heart
18. Tonka - Casey Hogan
19. Come Out To Play - Frankie Bones
20. Audio Imagery Pt. 2 - Adam X
21. Stupid - Abe Duque

Customer Reviews:

Brooklyn-Detroit -German Style Tech. in 1 CD.......2005-03-23

I bought this cd when it was new in 2001 and it showed me that Frankie, Adam, and Heather have vast knowledge of connecting classic techno with the new to make something entirely creative. It has a dark feel to it and defines a twisted sound that most celeb DJ's in shy away from. The mix tells it's story through a beat mix that pounds at a steady pace at about 120-125bpm. In other words, it's slow and deliberate vibe captures the dark side of techno very well.

From Bad To Better.......2002-01-12

I must say
When opening this cd, i was happy that i could add another Frankie Bones project to my collection. I absolutly love the man and his music :)
So i press play on track 1, and EEEEEEEEEEEK!!
This had to be the worst opening to a cd EVER! The first 4 or 5 tracks are HORRIBLE! Absolutly heartbreaking disgustingly horrible! It isn't till the 6th song that Frankie himself comes on and totally changes the pace the cd is going. He basically saves this cd from getting no stars at all! From track 6 and on, the cd keeps a decent tone to it and so, i give from tracks 6 through End : 3 stars... and tracks 1 through 5 : -20 stars!

Average customer rating: a great Piece of History

Red Hot & Blue Live (Radio Broadcasts from 1952-1964) Dewey Phillips Manufacturer: Memphis Archives ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Country | Styles | Music General | Live Albums | Country | Styles | Music General | Jazz | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music General | Live Albums | Rock | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Blues Rock | Rock | Indie Music | Stores | Music General | Country | Indie Music | Stores | Music General | Jazz | Indie Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Dewey and Elvis: The Life and Times of a Rock 'n' Roll Deejay (Music in American Life) Alan Freed's Moon Dog Show WDIA: History, The Music, The Legend Elvis Presley - Ed Sullivan Shows ASIN: B000003UEH Release Date: 1995-10-17

Tracks:

1. Live Broadcast 1952-1964

Album Description

If 1950's rock radio was defined by the unique personalities of the likes of Alan Freed and Wolfman Jack, Dewey Phillips was unique among the unique. He brought black rhythm and blues to white teenagers in Memphis two years before Freed started doing the same in Cleveland. He brought rock 'n' roll to television a year before Dick Clark's American Bandstand. And while segregation was imposed on virtually every aspect of life in the streets, "Daddy-O" Dewey gleefully integrated the airwaves of the South. These selections offer a glimpse into this unique performer during his rise, at his peak, and in the decline of his career. It is a voice whick has not been heard before and will likely not be heard again - a voice which changed the social landscape of Memphis and the musical landscape of the world.

Customer Reviews:

a great Piece of History.......2002-09-19

Here are the sounds of yesteryear captured through the voice of a fascinating character (Dewey Phillips) who introduced me to the real Blues via his dj chatter when I was a teenager. Yes this is Nostalgia with a Capital "N". The arcane vocubulary, the primitive broadcasting (including the scratchy, over cued 78's, and of course the classical blues of the South are all on this CD. (Even the first Ricky Nelson recording appears from a late spring 1957 broadcast.)

Average customer rating: Impossible to dislike!

Almost Live Rosemont Crossing Manufacturer: Oceanic Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Country | Styles | Music General | Folk | Styles | Music Country Folk | Country | Indie Music | Stores | Music ASIN: B000AB51OO Release Date: 2005-08-01

Tracks:

1. Falling Rain
2. In Your Arms
3. Time To Make A Change
4. Crazy Love
5. You Can't Mean That
6. Sweet Radish
7. Reflections
8. Daeya
9. Lonely Again
10. Wondering Why
11. The Calm Within The Wild
12. Landslide

Product Description

With one female and two male lead singers, Almost Live, is a vibrant compilation of Americana: Folk-Rock, Grass Roots and Country. The eleven songs (nine original, 2 covers) were recorded in an astounding 5 days, deep in the beautiful green Hocking Hills of Ohio, the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. The bands acoustic guitars and vocal stylings are reminiscent of Crosby, Stills, Nash &Young and The Eagles, but with the contemporary vibe of Nickel Creek.

Customer Reviews:

Impossible to dislike!.......2005-10-08

A tasteful, beautiful record, crafting pretty country with great acoustic guitars. The guys (and one gal) in RC are purposely harkening back to the music of their youth (see the folk-pop covers from Poco and Stevie Nicks) with all the easy going charm that that implies. Some slightly unconventional Bluegrass chord progressions combined with some of the loveliest harmonies you'll ever hear make this a CD no one could dislike. Its arrangements and production are skilled, imaginative and impressive.

I found RC's female singer in another band on Amazon, Drawing Down the Moon, whose CD "Angel in My Dream" is at the opposite end of the musical spectrum---Goddess Rock! Now THAT'S musical chops!

Average customer rating:

Defined ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Easy Listening | Pop | Styles | Music Pop | Imports | Stores | Music Similar Items: The Opera Band Amici Forever: In Concert ASIN: B000B8TO30 Release Date: 2006-03-14

Album Description

Exclusive UK pressing. Defined is the 2nd album from opera band Amici Forever and is more refined that the debut release by the five-piece act. Continuing where The Opera Band left off, the album features their trademark sound which combines classic melodies and high-powered vocals, creating the perfect mix of opera and pop. Includes the bonus track 'Power Of Love'. BMG. 2006.

Average customer rating: They picked the wrong single! GREAT CD Wonderful New Christian Band with Great Potential! LIFE CHANGING EXPERIENCE Amazing

Glory Defined Building 429 Manufacturer: Word Entertainment ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Christian Rock | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music General | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music Christian Alternative | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music Christian Contemporary Music | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music Similar Items: Rise Space in Between Us Space in Between Us Iris To Iris See the Morning ASIN: B0001NBLHW Release Date: 2004-04-06

Tracks:

1. Glory Defined
2. Show Me Love
3. Free
4. The Space In Between Us (Unplugged)
5. All You Ask Of Me (Unplugged)
6. Glory Defined (Alt. Version)

Customer Reviews:

They picked the wrong single!.......2004-07-19

Don't get me wrong, "Glory Defined" is a good song with some excellent touches, I only give it four stars because it's waaaaay overplayed, maybe a little over-produced, and not the best song on the EP. As excellent as "Glory Defined" is, as soon as track 3, "Free", begins you know you've found the real gem on this CD. It rocks hard & raw, & the lyrics don't compromise. This one's worth picking up and praying they do what they're called to, rather than be pretty and only do radio-friendly tracks a la '90's era Aerosmith.

GREAT CD.......2004-07-13

This CD is WONDERFUL from track #1 to #5. I am a new christian and this CD really explained my walk and I am feeling. I hope they come out with another CD. I would DEFINTILY buy it.

My favorites out of the 5 are Tracks #1 and #2...

This is a GREAT CD worth the purchase...

Wonderful New Christian Band with Great Potential!.......2004-04-23

If you're like me, you might wonder where the name "Building 429" comes from. I looked it up on their website and it comes from the Scripture verse : "Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen." ~ Ephesians 4:29 - NIV
This band has the style and potential of all the great Christian bands of the 21st century, like THIRD DAY, THE DAVID CROWDER BAND, and another great new one, TREE63. The title song, "Glory Defined" has been Number One for several weeks on 20-The Countdown Magazine, and if you listen to it, you will see why. I recommend this CD to all!

LIFE CHANGING EXPERIENCE.......2004-04-07

this group deserves everything coming to them.they changed my life and put me on the track of where my music needs to be.the cd is a must buy for anyone,and (FREE) is the rock on which they build your faith in them as rockers.take it from someone with a long history in rock music,its the message that counts but its the delivery that keeps you jumping not sitting there quietely!!!

Amazing.......2004-04-06

i recently went to the B429/Sonicflood concert, i got the tickets before i had known B429 would be there, and i ended up liking them better than Sonicflood, i liked them so much Im buying their CD the day it comes out; today. And its not just 1 song that is good, every song on the CD is AWESOME, you can hear clips of the music at b429.com, i highly recomend this CD. :)

Average customer rating: An exceptional Performer to Listen to and Watch For Brilliant lyrics and an amazing voice: Amilia is outstanding Pleasantly surprised! The best album I've heard in a long time.

Like An Engine Amilia K. Spicer Manufacturer: Free Range Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music General | Pop | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Folk Rock | Folk | Indie Music | Stores | Music General | Pop | Indie Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Seamless West ASIN: B00014WFTO Release Date: 2000-03-18

Tracks:

1. Like an Engine
2. Shine Like You
3. Queen for Hire
4. Come Over Me
5. Million Years
6. I Knew A Man
7. Trouble Is
8. Solo Rider
9. Beat (Walk to Your Own)
10. Ravenous Strings
11. Almost Broken

Customer Reviews:

An exceptional Performer to Listen to and Watch For.......2002-09-08

We came by Amilia by way of a Roger Corman film inwhich she wrote and sang "Don't Wait," as the background for the close of the picture. It was instant interest. A short websearch and "Heart Like an Engine" was ordered. Performers, songs by lyrics and arrangements effect you differently. When I find a song or recording that I play over and over it is significant. Finding new nuance and realization that the poetry, voice quality, and production values each time is rare. Amilia K. Spicer possesses a voice evoking a range of emotions and imagery. The lyrics are unusual in the manner a common human subject is revealed uncommonly and new. The range and style of the songs on this album go from cowboy reference, to swing influenced country, and blues.
The quality of her voice,particularly clear in this recording is used like an instrument to reveal more than just the words. Silences, changes in tempo, backup instrumentation, and expressive productions is above the common commercial products. Having heard Amilia live at the Kennedy Center and
playing her latest release "Seamless," she will continue to be a performer appreciated by other artists. The question is her achieving greater exposure and mass awareness as an artist. I will continue to look forward to her local performance and acquire her recordings as they emerge. She is a must hear.

Brilliant lyrics and an amazing voice: Amilia is outstanding.......2001-08-06

This debut CD by Amilia k Spicer grabbed my attention and held me spellbound. Maybe it was the dark lyrics, or the lush imagery, or her husky and sensual voice, or something else, a certain magic that is not so easily defined, but I loved this album. Not since Tori Amos' Little Earthquakes, has a voice and lyrics moved me so deeply and completely. Spicer is foremost a writer who sings to give another dimension to her words. But there's much more than just style and content. Every aspect of this work complements and enhances each of the elements to form a perfect symmetry. The melodies are fresh, yet familiar. The phrasing is subtle, seamless, and intense. The rhythm is visceral but not overpowering. Trying to sit motionless while this music plays, is like trying to hold back the tides. It's energy takes hold and sweeps you away with its power, yet keeps you buoyant and craving for more. Phrases like "New York sounds like a metronome", "...if you're in the game, you can scream out every word, but if you're in the cheap seats, you know you'll never be heard", and "I got what I was asking for, one more take it or leave it" are brilliant, condensed truths. Each listen is like the first, fresh and full of new meaning. Pulling this all together is Spicer's voice: gentle, hypnotic, sometimes filled with pain and irony, dreamy, always focusing your interest. Anyone who has ever been moved by such diverse performers as Diamanda Galas, Dar Williams, Heather Nova, Jane Siberry, Mary Coughlan, Milla Jovovich, Sara Craig, or Tori Amos, will find a kindred musical spirit and a unique, fresh approach. Highly recommended.

Pleasantly surprised!.......1999-12-22

Amilia has such a beautiful voice!...I was psyched after I heard this CD for it really exceded my expectations. Unlike many CD's I've bought that only have one or two good songs, I enjoyed each and every one....which is a rare event for me. Definitely a keeper.

The best album I've heard in a long time........1999-10-08

Very original and unique artist. Amilia's lyrics create very vivid images and stories for the listener. Amilia is also versatile - she is able to rock the house with the best of them and then immediately shift gears and deliver a sultry ballad. Like an Engine is definitely worth adding to your collection!

Average customer rating: Greater than I expected NICE! A Student of Elyon Elyon Elyon

Elyon Omar K. Mills Manufacturer: Omar K. Mills ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Soul | R&B | Styles | Music Gospel | Christian & Gospel | Indie Music | Stores | Music Contemporary R&B | R&B | Indie Music | Stores | Music ASIN: B00004TQHN Release Date: 2000-05-12

Tracks:

1. Intro
2. Jacob & Rachel
3. Just Stand
4. Solomon's Song
5. After All
6. Peace, Be Still
7. My God & King
8. Tears N Your Eyes
9. Have U Ever Fallen N Love
10. We Will Have 2 Wait
11. Elyon
12. Outro

Album Description

"Elyon" comes from Genesis 14 and means "God, Most High". The work is the first from Omar K. Mills and is very laid back and mellow. The type of CD you put on when you want to relax and chill. Blurs the line between R&B gospel and Contemporary Christian. Also blurs the line between R&B and Pop.

Customer Reviews:

Greater than I expected.......2003-06-03

I purchased this CD from Omar's mom. She and I were in the same ministry class in 2000. I purchased the cd primarily for support. I popped it in, not knowing what to expect, and bam! Here was a cd I could relate to, especially with a track named "We Will Have to Wait." Omar sings love ballads "Jacob and Rachel", "Solomon's Song", and "Have You Ever Fallen In Love" with the help of a young lady named Nova. He arranged songs with a fusion of R&B and a capella, Pop and Adult Contemporary Gospel. His bass guitar is definitely strong and passionate. He bids us to hold on in tough times on songs like "Just Stand" and "After All," and Omar sings his praises on "My God and King" an on the title track, Elyon. This cd is definitely a keeper. If you're into fusions, especially those with a Pop and R&B-ish feel, this cd is for you. Great Job Omar; I bet the Lord and you're mom are both beaming from ear to ear!

NICE!.......2003-01-03

This cd wasn't what I expected from a young black man. I was expecting to bump and thump! You know.., "Get my praize on!" Surprisingly, I did get my praise on, but I found the exact sound I needed to use as I meditate and talk to God. The vocals are smooth and the music is very relaxing. Definitely helps remove the stress of the day and get you focused back on the fact that the Master won't put more on you than you can bear. Nova's vocals are breathtaking! The messages Omar gives are just what is needed for all generations. A GREAT CD to drive to. EXCELLENT CD!

A Student of Elyon.......2001-09-23

Omar Mill's - Elyon is a well-written mellow-jazz CD that the lyric's of these songs have shined more light into my soul then any of the many Christian/Gospel CD's I've purchased before.

Elyon to me has been a very "uplifting, mood altering, and spirit-filling" as one other person has said before me.

Elyon - Once you listen to the message, and understand the meaning within your own life you'll gain the understanding that this is how Omar has lived his life. We've all at sometime in our life time have wanted to "drive that car before we buy" it. But as said by Omar, "it won't be easy, but we will have to wait". This track has a different meaning for my Wife, and myself. But in the same time it brings us both to the common foundation.

Just Stand - I would agree with other listeners of this CD, that this track has to the best jazzy beat, but it's not the beat that hits your heart it's the learning/meaning of the lyrics from within your day-to-day actions. When you first hearing Omar say "My life is one big nothing, Curse my day of birth, And Jesus won't you take me to heaven from this earth", "Truth be told I don't want to die". When I've had periods in my life that have matched that statement, and knowing that some more of these times are still to come. I now understand that all I need to do is Just Stand, or "find somewhere quiet and hit my knee and pray".

I've enjoyed passing this CD on to friends, family members, and co-workers. This is one CD that I wish could buy for every child, teen, young adult, and elder within my community.

Elyon.......2000-08-09

I really like the laid back mellow sounds of Elyon. My favorite songs are have u ever fallen n love and Jacob and Rachel. They are beautiful christain love songs.

Elyon.......2000-07-01

Uplifting, mood altering,and spirit-filling. Good music to read by, sleep by and meditate by. Highly recommended for relieving tension of the day.

Rap Music:

1. Definitive All-Time Greatest Hits
2. Disraeli Gears [Original recording remastered]
3. Donavon Frankenreiter
4. Early 21st Century Blues
5. Electric Blue Watermelon
6. Everything in Transit [Enhanced] [Explicit Lyrics]
7. Finally Woken
8. Frances the Mute
9. Fumbling Towards Ecstasy
10. Greetings from Imrie House [Enhanced]

Rap Music

rap music

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