Ben Folds Five

Amazon.com
Like the best guitar heroes, Ben Folds, pianist and leader of a guitarless trio called the Ben Folds Five, commands and fuels his small, tightly wound ensemble with an authoritative, nearly virtuosic style. Folds, based in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, borrows from everywhere but lends new inspiration and insight to the instrument's possibilities--he's the Jimi Hendrix of the baby grand. His frenetic keypounding eclipses old-time styles from honky-tonk to Jerry Lee Lewis rag, and he outplinks megastars such as Elton John and Billy Joel while sifting them both through the mondo hammerings of classic pop-loving alternative keyboard bashers like Todd Rundgren and Squeeze's Jools Holland. To complement Folds-the-pianist's clean and bright ivory tinkerings, Folds-the-singer's clear and dynamic tenor swirls through Folds-the-songwriter's very capably crafted, sugary pop gems. "Philosophy" starts with a rolling Joel-like intro, slips into a Rundgrenish verse and chorus--complete with the perfect Beatlesque harmonies of bassist Robert Sledge and drummer Darren Jessee--and then breaks out in an overdriven piano quote from Gershwin in the climactic solo. "Underground" Sgt. Peppers us with faux theatrics and then plunges into a soul-gospel groove about the joys of the alternative rock scene. "Uncle Walter" is a character sketch Ray Davies wishes he wrote but couldn't; "Boxing" is an imagined confab between Muhammad Ali and Howard Cosell that Tom Waits wishes he wrote but wouldn't. The rest of Ben Folds Five's debut achievement just does what any other timeless summer record should: it makes you feel sunny enough inside to last all through the year. --Roni Sarig

Ben Folds Five,Ben Folds Five,Passenger,Pop,Popular Music,Rock,Rock/Pop

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Ben Folds Five

Average customer rating: One of the best abums that I own! Moving to the 'burbs with Ben Folds You either like him or you don't... Ben Fold is Songwriting genius Rockin My Suburb!

Rockin' the Suburbs Ben Folds Manufacturer: Sony ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music General | Rock | Alternative Styles | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Singer-Songwriters | Pop | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Adult Alternative | Pop | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Similar Items: Songs For Silverman Ben Folds Five Whatever and Ever Amen The Unauthorized Biography Of Reinhold Messner Ben Folds Live ASIN: B00005NZKK Release Date: 2001-09-11

Tracks:

1. annie waits
2. zak and sara
3. still fighting it
4. gone
5. fred jones part 2
6. the ascent of stan
7. losing lisa
8. carrying cathy
9. not the same
10. rockin' the suburbs
11. fired
12. the luckiest

Amazon.com

On the evidence of Rockin' the Suburbs, Ben Folds's decision to jettison the two-piece Five that had backed him on four largely excellent albums has not resulted in any significant shift in trajectory. The Ben Folds Five were only getting better, gradually discovering the confidence not to hide their musical uniqueness (there have been too few piano-led power trios) and lyrical intelligence behind undergrad Barenaked Ladies-style gags. Songs like "Mess" and "Brick" signaled an extraordinary new songwriting talent worthy of comparison to Folds's obvious idols, Elvis Costello and Paul Simon. Only this album's title track harkens back to Folds's fondness for comedy, and it is by far the weakest track here. The rest is mournful, reflective, and, at best, quite magnificent. Folds's hymns to his family, "Still Fighting It" and "The Luckiest" are shot through with an honesty that's rare in alternative rock. The acerbic essence of character sketches such as "Carrying Cathy," "Losing Lisa," and "Zak & Sara" are leavened with a generous compassion. Folds's second solo effort is his best album yet. The remainder of his career must be anticipated with equal parts expectation and impatience. --Andrew Mueller

Customer Reviews:

One of the best abums that I own!.......2007-04-27

A friend of mine owns this cd and one day she was listening to it in the car while we were driving around. I was immediatly floored with this album. Mainly because I remember when "Brick" first came out and I absolutely hated the song and just could not get into Ben Folds Five. (Strangely enough, it has since launched to one of my favorites). As soon as I could I purchased "Rockin' the Suburbs" I did and I listened to it 24/7. Ben Folds' songwriting is amazing. He has this amazing sense of humor, but a great ability to write seriously. In my opinion, his piano playing is unmatched. The work that goes into "The Acent of Stan" is incredible. In fact, thats the song that really sealed my interest. There are no words to describe that song. I would encourage anyone to buy this album. It is one of my absolute favorites (which is amazing because I am a pretty critical person when it comes to movies and music). If you buy this album you will not be disappointed!

Moving to the 'burbs with Ben Folds.......2007-04-05

On "Rocking The Suburbs," Ben Folds joins the ranks of ultimate white guys. With shamelessly unironic glee, Folds takes digs at the kid he grew up as he proclaims "Mom and Dad, you made me so uptight, I'm gonna cuss on the mic tonight." There's even a greater irony to Folds' joke, as this is the same track that got cleaned up to appear in the Animated "Over the Hedge (Widescreen Edition)," minus those cuss words!

It makes "Rocking The Suburbs" something of a concept album, about what happens to the smart aleky kids who find themselves with a little growth and a touch of adulthood. Less smart-aleky than his work with Ben Folds Five (save for the title track), Folds solo doesn't veer too far in sound or general point of view from his previous work. This was easily his most mature album, dealing more with adult issues and adult love. The final song on "Suburbs," the beautiful "The Luckiest" is an unsentimental ode to life long relationships and is probably one of my favorite Ben Folds songs.

The rest of the CD covers a lot of ground. The Elton John/Billy Joel influence is still predominant ("Zak and Sara" opens with a direct lift from Elton's "Teacher I Need You"), but you will also hear traces of Todd Rundgren and The Beach Boys. Folds also is looking at the fear of maturity, and how getting older is not always getting ahead ("The Ascent of Stan," "Fred Jones Pt 2" and "Fired" being prominent examples). More to the point, there isn't a throwaway song on the entire CD, which makes "Rocking The Suburbs" consistently good all the way through. Along with "Whatever and Ever Amen," this is my favorite Ben Folds album.

You either like him or you don't..........2007-04-04

I really don't understand people. Ben Folds is Ben Folds. He's made amazing music with Five and without, and continues to do so. Period. I don't understand how people can say they love one album and then say that another is terrible. I won't be so pretentious as to say that I am a so-called "true fan" of Ben Folds, but what's the problem here? Ben Folds' music sounds like Ben Folds' music on every album! Sure there's variation, but what else would you expect? The guy is a human being. It's been over 10 years since his first release with Five. People grow and change, and the music reflects that. Would you really want something completely one-dimensional album after album? Even then, the kind of variation I'm talking about would be more aptly described as "range". Every song is instantly recognizable as Folds' work, no matter where it is on his spectrum. EVERY album (w/ Five and w/o) features beautiful piano playing, brilliant and sometimes very personal and haunting lyrics, energetic and vibrant songs that you'll find yourself humming all day long, as well as somber rainy-day tunes that cut through all the mindless drivel of normal "pop" music and speak to your soul. It's musical honesty, and it's refreshing. Make no mistake, this guy is a genius. Period. If you like anything else he's done, purchase another album, or just start downloading. Don't let advice from random strangers deny you the pleasure of experiencing what Folds has to offer.

Ben Fold is Songwriting genius.......2007-03-02

No argument that he isn't the worlds best singer, BUT Ben Folds tells great stories, injects a lot of humor into his writing and is an amazing musician. His songs are upbeat and keep me chuckling while i belt them out on my drive in to work.

Rockin My Suburb!.......2007-01-28

With the likes of Ben Folds Five from the early 90s, I decided to dab into the piano rockin scene once more for some refreshing tunes. Upon hearing a voice mail recording of the first track on this cd, I was ultimately hooked, not that Mr. Folds uses my name throughout the chorus of the song, but that this song truly whisked me away to a time less forgotten. Love and life's inevitable stories are humorously brought to the surface in each piano struck track. On that note, Ben Folds has proven to dramatically jam on the keys with lyrics that are percise and energetically remeniscent. If you want timeless rock to hit your suburb, Rockin' the Suburbs is a must have in any musically able playing machine.

Average customer rating: More upbeat than Whatever and Ever Amen A must have! Ben's best yeah, these guys are pretty good... Original and Amazing

Ben Folds Five Ben Folds Five Manufacturer: Passenger ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music General | Rock | Alternative Styles | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music General | Pop | Styles | Music Singer-Songwriters | Pop | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Adult Alternative | Pop | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music General | Alternative Rock | Indie Music | Stores | Music Rock | Alternative Rock | Indie Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: The Unauthorized Biography Of Reinhold Messner Rockin' the Suburbs Whatever and Ever Amen Naked Baby Photos Songs For Silverman ASIN: B000000IDJ Release Date: 1995-07-25

Tracks:

1. Jackson Cannery
2. Philosophy
3. Julianne
4. Where's Summer B.?
5. Alice Childress
6. Underground
7. Sports & Wine
8. Uncle Walter
9. Best Imitation Of Myself
10. Video
11. The Last Polka
12. Boxing

Amazon.com

Like the best guitar heroes, Ben Folds, pianist and leader of a guitarless trio called the Ben Folds Five, commands and fuels his small, tightly wound ensemble with an authoritative, nearly virtuosic style. Folds, based in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, borrows from everywhere but lends new inspiration and insight to the instrument's possibilities--he's the Jimi Hendrix of the baby grand. His frenetic keypounding eclipses old-time styles from honky-tonk to Jerry Lee Lewis rag, and he outplinks megastars such as Elton John and Billy Joel while sifting them both through the mondo hammerings of classic pop-loving alternative keyboard bashers like Todd Rundgren and Squeeze's Jools Holland. To complement Folds-the-pianist's clean and bright ivory tinkerings, Folds-the-singer's clear and dynamic tenor swirls through Folds-the-songwriter's very capably crafted, sugary pop gems. "Philosophy" starts with a rolling Joel-like intro, slips into a Rundgrenish verse and chorus--complete with the perfect Beatlesque harmonies of bassist Robert Sledge and drummer Darren Jessee--and then breaks out in an overdriven piano quote from Gershwin in the climactic solo. "Underground" Sgt. Peppers us with faux theatrics and then plunges into a soul-gospel groove about the joys of the alternative rock scene. "Uncle Walter" is a character sketch Ray Davies wishes he wrote but couldn't; "Boxing" is an imagined confab between Muhammad Ali and Howard Cosell that Tom Waits wishes he wrote but wouldn't. The rest of Ben Folds Five's debut achievement just does what any other timeless summer record should: it makes you feel sunny enough inside to last all through the year. --Roni Sarig

Customer Reviews:

More upbeat than Whatever and Ever Amen.......2007-07-19

Damn man, Ben Folds Five is an impressive band. THey aren't anywhere near to be my favorite band (or for that matter, in the top 10), but Ben Folds, Robert Sledge and Dareen (SP?) Jesse are all talented. Ben Folds
is pretty self-explainitory, but when you add the jazzy drums, ______ yeah! Robert Sledge than does the finishing touches, and bingo __________! There you go! And did I mention, Ben Folds is an impressive singer.

This album may not be as good as Whatever and Ever Amen, but if that album lacked anything, the songs weren't as upbeat (though there will a few). This album has enough different hooks and includes Where's Summer B. and Underground, which is yet another reason to have this one as well as Whatever and Ever Amen (you could pursue the others if you wish, but I am interested in checking out other bands).

This album isn't more "raw" just not as slow as WAEA. And it damn works well. I didn't enjoy it as much as WAEA (I could give a ________ less about the whole Brick thing), but I really did enjoy it nonetheless. The first six tracks are excellent, and the rest have a couple of songs that don't live up to some of the others(video and sports and Wine), but that's because those songs are so ____________ excellent. Either or, it dosen't ___________ matter, this album is refreshing enough, just like the last one. Ben FOlds Five can make pop music that lasts long and dosen't get old. I don't know how he does it (probally the piano), but hey, it's a ___________ classic summer/winter/all seasons album, the same as WAEA.

10/10

A must have!.......2007-07-03

I love Ben Folds & have been an avid fan since 1996. This album introduced me to his greatness. I'd heard "Alice Childress" on KCRW & had to pull over in the car. I love the raw sound & fuzz bass. Ben Folds is the Beatles for our generation!

Ben's best .......2007-02-19

I have everything Ben has ever done since this album (with the 5, by himself, with the Bens, etc.). This is still my favorite collection of Ben Folds tunes ever. Of course I will always have a place in my heart for Whatever and Ever Amen (I listened to it literally 1000's of times after it was released!) but this is the disc I can go back to and listen to all the way through any time (Whatever and Ever has some definite slow sections). This first eponymous CD is filled with great songs...every single one a "keeper." "Jackson Cannery", "Philosophy," "Boxing," "Uncle Walter," "Underground"...great songs to drive around in your car and rock out to. These guys were so good...I like Ben's solo work, of course, but the Ben Folds Five were the greatest.

yeah, these guys are pretty good..........2006-01-12

One of my favorite pop albums of all time, and I enjoy this album even more than their more well-known 1997 album "Whatever & Ever Amen". The songs feel different from each other (the funkadelic edge of "Jackson Cannery" to the classic pop sounds of "Philosophy" and "Uncle Walter"), yet they sound enough the same to know what album you're listening to.

"Underground" and "Video" are also standout tracks on this CD. The former delivers the joys of alternative rock with an upbeat sound, while the latter a slower but very catchy look into the future when "we live in a video".

If you're looking for a sunny pop CD with excellent musicianship, look no further than right here.

Original and Amazing.......2006-01-10

This album is absolutely fantastic. Ben has shows some great storytellins ability in his originals and of course is a phenomenal piano player. Percy and Darren are also great musicians and help create and incredibly full and interested sound for a three piece.

Average customer rating: Ben Folds Five - A Slight Step Down But Still Good Largely Misunderstood Haunting... His best Don't Bother

The Unauthorized Biography Of Reinhold Messner Ben Folds Five Manufacturer: Sony ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music General | Rock | Alternative Styles | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Singer-Songwriters | Pop | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Adult Alternative | Pop | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Similar Items: Ben Folds Five Rockin' the Suburbs Naked Baby Photos Whatever and Ever Amen Whatever and Ever Amen ASIN: B00000IMYT Release Date: 1999-04-27

Tracks:

1. Narcolepsy
2. Don't Change Your Plans
3. Mess
4. Magic
5. Hospital Song
6. Army
7. Your Redneck Past
8. Your Most Valuable Possession
9. Regrets
10. Jane
11. Lullabye

Amazon.com

Simultaneously challenging and accessible, The Unauthorized Biography of Reinhold Messner is a song cycle about death and dying, people, relationships, optimism, innocence--you name it. On his first two albums, Ben Folds was quick to toss off bombs of blame (most notably on the vitriolic "Song for the Dumped"), but here he aims most of his criticism at the mirror. On the wondrously snarky "Redneck Past" he sings, "My ex-wives all despise me / try to put it all behind me / but my redneck past is nipping at my heels." Apparently he doesn't have a chip on his piano any more. The production is lush and ornate, with strings and horns embellishing Folds's usual quota of to-die-for hooks (which he seems to dash off as effortlessly as postcards from the beach). An obvious point of reference is Pet Sounds, but Ben Folds Five widen their scope to also include hints of Steely Dan, Pink Floyd, and even Queen, whose influence is front and center on the bombastic opener "Narcolepsy," a virtual homage to "Bohemian Rhapsody." Other highlights include "Army," a hilariously detailed indie-rock answer to Billy Joel's "Scenes from an Italian Restaurant." --David Menconi

Customer Reviews:

Ben Folds Five - A Slight Step Down But Still Good.......2007-03-22

Ben Folds Five delivers again with another collection of outstanding piano based songs. I have seen different interpretations of the "concept" behind this album and I am still not sure that I see exactly what it is supposed to be. Is the main character Ben himself or just someone made up in his mind? The songs are mostly introspective and deal with regret, loss and life choices. Although there are a few upbeat moments most of this album explores self examination through review of ones actions. Overall I don't think that this album is nearly as strong as "Whatever Amen", but it has its moments. "Narcolepsy", "Don't Change Your Plans", "Mess", "Army", "Your Redneck Past" are all very good and resonate with what is best about this band. Tight concise piano fronted music and intelligent lyrics. "Mesner" would end up being the last album from the original Ben Folds Five band. The members would go their separate ways after this one with Folds going solo.

Largely Misunderstood.......2007-01-26

After reading other customer reviews, it seems that many were confused by what Ben Folds Five was doing with this album. "Reinhold Messner" covers a lifespan in reverse, starting with death and then moving backwards through time. "Narcolepsy" portrays having to face the inevitability of death, even when not ready ("I'm going to sleep...but i'm not tired"). "Magic" presents loved ones coping and coming to terms with an impending death ("we knew you'd be leaving as soon as you could, and we hoped you would"). "Hospital Song" is about the first time you face your own mortality, and the denial that often results from it.

This album is nearly a masterpiece in my opinion, and one of the better "concept" albums to come along in quite some time. BFF refused to release a carbon copy of "Whatever and Ever, Amen" and instead chose to take their formula and improve upon it. Definitely 5 starts in my book.

Haunting..........2006-08-10

This was hardly the album most BFF fans expected upon its release in 1999, myself included. Looking back, it wasn't the radical departure most fans claimed it was. Ben's tender side had always popped up here and there on his previous albums. It just came through most prominently on this one. This a seemless collection of haunting lyrics and gorgeous melodies that begs to be played from start to finish.

BFF called it quits shortly after they released this. I saw one of their last shows at the University of Vermont's Patrick Gym in April of 2000 and it remains one of the very best concerts I've ever seen. They should have released a full live album.

His best.......2006-04-03

Unlike his last record this was recorded in a studio so it sounds more professional. But I love the other one too.

Don't Bother.......2006-02-04

I love Ben's work... .except for this. It is easily my least favorite of all of his albums. Why?? Gees... where do I start. Suffice to say that the album is depressing and generally difficult to listen to. In my opinion, Ben is best when he "kicks it up a notch". This needs to be kicked... about 3 notches. I bought it on the strength of "Army" and my love for their previous works. I guess I should have did a little more research.

Average customer rating: These guys give Coldplay a run for their money! Ben Folds Five - Great Piano Based Rock Excellent Album One of the best albums of the mid/late nineties, and still great. Ben Folds Five Is The Best

Whatever and Ever Amen Ben Folds Five Manufacturer: Sony ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music General | Rock | Alternative Styles | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music General | Pop | Styles | Music Singer-Songwriters | Pop | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Adult Alternative | Pop | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Similar Items: The Unauthorized Biography Of Reinhold Messner Ben Folds Five Rockin' the Suburbs Naked Baby Photos Songs For Silverman ASIN: B000002BOJ Release Date: 1997-03-18

Tracks:

1. One Angry Dwarf and 200 Solemn Faces
2. Fair
3. Brick
4. Song for the Dumped
5. Selfless, Cold and Composed
6. Kate
7. Smoke
8. Cigarette
9. Stevens last night in town
10. Battle of Who Could Care Less
11. Missing the War
12. Evaporated

Amazon.com

Think of Ben Folds as Billy Joel minus the Tin Pan Alley heritage and armed with a sweet, wry, slacker ethos. In a guitar-free trio setting, the Chapel Hill smart guy pounds the ivories with gusto while singing a tremendous batch of funny ("Kate"), poignant ("Brick," "Evaporated"), pissed-off ("Song for the Dumped"), and hugely refreshing (all 12 tunes here) songs. --Jeff Bateman

Customer Reviews:

These guys give Coldplay a run for their money!.......2007-06-25

No, that's no joke, ______, why am I comparing Ben Folds to Chris Martin? Chris Martin dosen't stand a _______ chance. Ben Folds Five dosen't use a single real guitar, instead, the piano is the main instrument. Rest Assured, this isn't a _______ pop cd. That's pretty much my best example, and they use jazz than regular rock, but it still sounds like rock music. This is very depressing at times, but this ain't no ________ emo cd. Ben Folds dosen't whine like a little _______. He can actually sing and dosen't have that I-got-kicked-in-the-balls voice. The bass and drums are put into good music, and they sound full for a trio, as that means they use their instruments to the best ways possible, like Primus does.

No, this does not even resemble Primus (no one does, same goes for BFF). Ben Folds really is a _______ good piano player, not as technical, but musically, he has the goods. He plays some sick solos on the piano, never losing melody. THe rest of the band is great too, of course (_____, I can't remember their names), but Ben Folds is the main star, as if I couldn't be more obvious.

With song titles like "song For The DUmped", obviously close minded idiots will call him emo or some other ______ label, but yeah right. That song actually is pretty funny; the only thing Ben Folds cares about is getting his money back that he wasted on his girlfriend (as well as his black t-shirt, whatever the _____ that means). I like Brick, but people need to lay off on the whole Brick thing. I'm glad I never followed hit singles during the early to mid 90's, so don't get mad at me! None of the songs are bad. There's plenty of variety, so don't expect a whole album of swing jazz. Brick and Song For The Dumped together are an example.

They aren't a new BHG, but I think I will give that matter a rest. This is just good music, and anybody who likes music will probally want to give this a try (I mean real music, so ______ off hop-pop fans).
10/10

Ben Folds Five - Great Piano Based Rock.......2007-03-22

I first discovered Ben Folds Five by randomly clicking the channels on my TV remote control late one Saturday night. I think it was a "Soundstage" performance on PBS that I happened across. My clicker stopped on these guys and I ended up watching the whole show. I had no idea who they were, but they certainly grabbed may attention. After doing a little research discovered it was Ben Folds Five and ended up picking up this album. I am certainly glad I did. I honestly think that Ben Folds is one of the great singer / songwriter / piano men of our time. For those of us old enough to remember Elton John and Billy Joel back when they were young inspired songsmiths, Folds will instantly remind you of these artists. Throw in a biting lyrical sarcasm, similar to Warren Zevon and musical / lyrical chops of Joe Jackson and you get Folds perfect mix of music, vocals and lyrics. This album broke the band big time in the US with the hit song "Brick" that got a ton of radio airplay. Not your typical single, "Brick" lyrically deals with the subject of abortion on a very personal level, and is a great song. The rest of the album is also really great. Folds writing can be depressingly serious or hilariously funny. The band's music is all over the place with the piano being the lead instrument throughout. Highlights include "One Angry Dwarf And 200 Solemn Faces", "Song For The Dumped", "Stevens Last Night In Town", "Battle Of Who Could Care Less", and "Fair". Although I don't think this is Ben's best album, the whole thing is strong and this is a nice place to start if you are looking for outstanding piano based rock.

Excellent Album.......2007-02-28

Overlooked 90's band in my opinion. This what piano rock should be. You listening, Chris Martin?

One of the best albums of the mid/late nineties, and still great........2006-12-13

I discovered BF5 in high school, back when all we had was their self-titled debut album, but within a year of discovering and loving that album, this baby hit the scene. I've always been baffled that "Brick" received so much more airtime than any of these other tracks. It's a great song, but I wouldn't even put it in my top five for this album - it's also rather uncharacteristically melancholy and doesn't represent this mostly upbeat, funny, energetic, innovative, and just plain bop-able collection of power pop / alternative gems. Clever lyrics throughout and some really great melodic music-writing, bound up in some impressive piano-playing & musicianship (while somehow managing to maintain a slacker-garage feel). It sounds contradictory, but that's how he comes off-- Ben Folds has drawn comparisons to Billy Joel, but at times he sounds more like the love-child of Elton John and Weezer, with a little Joe Jackson DNA thrown in. I *loved* this album back in the day. I played one copy to death in high school and have since rediscovered it some 10 years later. And I'll tell you what - I still love this album. I'm amazed what a shelf life it has for me - unlike a lot of the other stuff from back then I find a little prosaic today (Bjork, Fiona Apple, many other albums I'm too embarrased to mention here). Can't give this album enough stars - makes me smile every time I hear it.

Ben Folds Five Is The Best.......2006-07-29

I was at a family reunion a while back and I was playing the piano when my cousin walked up and was Like "Play one of the songs you wrote" (I've been writing music on the piano for four years now) After I finished she was like "Your music sounds alot like the stuff Ben Folds Five does." And I was like " What's Ben Folds Five?" she told me that they were the best band ever. So I checked them out and then I went out and bought all their CDs. This album has a lot of sad songs like Brick, Evaporated, and Song For The Dumped. Brick is just such a sad song. Evaporated is by far the best song on the album. In addition to sad songs there are also just plain awesome songs like One Angry Dwarf And 200 Solemn faces and Missing the War. THIS CD IS AWESOME. (:

Average customer rating: Piano pop. And don't forget to give me back my black t-shirt Fantastic! Good CD A high quality artist

Whatever and Ever Amen Ben Folds Five Manufacturer: Sony ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music General | Rock | Alternative Styles | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music General | Pop | Styles | Music Singer-Songwriters | Pop | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Adult Alternative | Pop | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Similar Items: Rockin' the Suburbs Ben Folds Five The Unauthorized Biography Of Reinhold Messner Songs For Silverman Ben Folds Live ASIN: B0007TFGXU Release Date: 2005-03-22

Tracks:

1. One Angry Dwarf And 200 Solemn Faces
2. Fair
3. Brick
4. Song For The Dumped
5. Selfless, Cold and Composed
6. Kate
7. Smoke
8. Cigarette
9. Steven's Last Night In Town
10. Battle of Who Could Care Less
11. Missing The War
12. Evaporated
13. Video Killed The Radio Star
14. For All The Pretty People
15. Mitchell Lane
16. Theme From Dr. Pyser- Brendan O'Brien Studio Version
17. Air
18. She Don't Use Jelly- Lounge-A-Palooza Version
19. Song For The Dumped- Japanese Version

Customer Reviews:

Piano pop........2007-04-23

I had heard their song "Air" on the Godzilla soundtrack I had on cassette when I was in elementary school (don't ask me why I owned it). That song was pretty cool but I didn't really start listening to them. I strayed away from them, actually, because a local artist in my area sounds just like them (and I wasn't a fan of that local artist). It wasn't until a few weeks ago when I heard "Song For The Dumped." That hooked me in. After buying this album I was pleased to see the bonus b-sides they included. Like a lounge version of "She Don't Use Jelly" (originally by The Flaming Lips). All in all, very catchy piano pop.

And don't forget to give me back my black t-shirt.......2007-04-10

Ben Folds' major label debut was a near perfect zinger of power-pop, influenced by everyone from Elton John to Todd Rundgren to The Raspberries. Smart and nerdy and deftly walking the tightrope between the two extremes, "Whatever and Ever Amen" was a CD that took the starch out of angsty grunge and depressing emo-pop.

Fold's newly minted celebrity is given a revenge-of-the-nerds bashing in "One Angry Dwarf and 200 Solemn Faces," as an Elton-styled piano riff floats along under the lyric "if you really want to see me check the papers and the TV/Look who's telling who what to do." Even nastier in the smackdown dept is "Song For The Dumped," where the jilted Folds gives one of the most riotous kiss-offs in pop history. Since the punch line would get my review booted, I won't repeat it here. Just suffice it to say that every geeky guy that got dumped just as you thought you were king of the world will get a good laugh from this particular song.

But Folds also was developing the serious side that eventually blossomed in full on his terrific "Rockin' the Suburbs." "Whatever and Ever Amen" broke through on the strength of "Brick," which chronicled a crushed boyfriend as he takes his pregnant girlfriend to an abortion clinic. The most amazing thing about "Brick" is its utter lack of judgmental tone. It is a classic, and easily one of the best - if not the most unlikely - hit singles of the 90's.

Folds doesn't always hit the bull's-eye, as "Steven's Last Night In Town" and "Cigarette" show. But for most of the original CD's 12 songs, Folds was showing he could put snap into his eclectic brand of pop. As for the bonus material, well, there was a reason they were B-sides. The bands' run through "Video Killed The Radio Star" is pretty good, but The Flaming Lips cover pales after a few listens. Instrumentals and band conversation do not qualify as a "bonus" to me. And if the best you can add is a non-sense take of "Song For the Dumped," then spare me the added material. It's just a distraction from a really great album. Burn yourself the remaster minus the added tracks. You'll enjoy it more.

Fantastic!.......2007-03-10

Ben Folds/Five are one of the few artists (out of tons of genres that I like to listen to) that have risen to the top of the must-have-in-my-library list. This CD is worth more than it costs.

Good CD.......2007-01-11

Well- musical preference is.... just that preference. Purely subjective. I love Ben Folds Five. I'm not going to go into an depth review of this cd though. I say if you haven't heard it find a sample clip somewhere. If you like it buy it, if not don't.

A high quality artist.......2006-08-07

Always heard of them, never familiar with them.

Saw them on soundstage (PBS) and was intrigued. Ben Folds is a Billy Joel but with more of a cutting edge. He is a very real, very high quality artist, pianist, singer and songwriter. The band is great, lots of space between the instruments (just like Cream, J H Experience, Police). The main songs are great and the extras also are interesting.

Besides great piano playing, the bass player is great as well. This is the type of band where you'll want all of their cds b/c they are of high quality. Sounds of the Suburbs is also a great cd.

Ben Folds has a solo/live/piano only album w/his best songs but stick with the recorded versions b/c the bass and drums are vital components of those songs.

Average customer rating: For hard core fans only Truly for anyone quite good for what it is A Most Enjoyable Listen UNDERGROUND RULES

Naked Baby Photos Ben Folds Five Manufacturer: Caroline ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music General | Rock | Alternative Styles | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music General | Pop | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Adult Alternative | Pop | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music General | Alternative Rock | Indie Music | Stores | Music Rock | Alternative Rock | Indie Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Ben Folds Five The Unauthorized Biography Of Reinhold Messner Fear of Pop: Vol. 1 Rockin' the Suburbs Whatever and Ever Amen ASIN: B000000I3B Release Date: 1998-01-13

Tracks:

1. Eddie Walker
2. Jackson Cannery
3. Emaline
4. Alice Childress (Live At KCRW)
5. Dick Holster
6. Tom & Mary
7. For Those Of Ya'll Who Wear Fanny Packs
8. Bad Idea (Original Demo)
9. Underground (Live At Ziggy's)
10. The Ultimate Sacrifice (Live At Lupo's)
11. Satan Is My Master (Live At Ziggy's)
12. Julianne (Live At LA2)
13. Song For The Dumped (Live At LA2)
14. Philosophy (Live At De Melkweg)
15. Twin Falls (Live At Club Quattro)
16. Boxing (Live At Club Quattro)

Amazon.com

When major labels snatch indie acts, credit for having been there first holds little consolation for the original labels--unless, of course, there are easy bucks to be made from it. Suggesting Caroline's lack of faith in Ben Folds Fives' career longevity, the label trudged out its collection of early singles, live performances, album outtakes, and obscure covers at the first signs of the group's commercial breakthrough (rather than wait until these odds and ends were actually old enough to be of archival interest). Most of these "naked baby photos" are not worth your time, unless you're one of Ben's relatives. --Roni Sarig

Customer Reviews:

For hard core fans only.......2007-01-23

This was the last Ben Folds album I need to finish my collection. It was worth the purchase but was not my favorite album. It shows how much the band and Ben has grown over the years. Good to have in a collection but not a must have.

Truly for anyone.......2006-02-12

I have noticed many people here believe that if you are not already a big Ben Folds fan, then you will not enjoy this album. These people are fans, and probably were introduced to the studio albums first. Well, this was my first Ben Folds Five album. I recieved it when it was new and I was 10 years old. I loved it then and still do today. So, when I say that anyone, including children will enjoy this album, I truly mean it.

quite good for what it is.......2006-01-10

this is a great example of how good a demo cd can actually be.

three reasons to buy this:

- best version of "underground" they put out. blows the studio version out of the water.
- BUILT TO SPILL COVER!!!!!! i never thought that i'd want to hear anyone cover built to spill, but man, bff does a fantastic job of it!
- this version of jackson cannery is pretty spectacular.

there is one huge downside of buying this though. after listening to it 3 or 4 times you're gonna get really bored with it.

i'm really waiting for ben folds to either put out a cd of built to spill covers or just tour with them. that would be truly incredible.

A Most Enjoyable Listen.......2005-12-07

Ben Folds Five's "Naked Baby Photos" prominently displays this band's most endearing qualities, namely, their ability to not take themselves too seriously, and their desire to share all of their talents with the fans. This album is not to be recommended to someone who does not already enjoy the other Ben Folds Five releases. Many of the songs on this album are alternate takes or live versions of already released songs. There are also many gems in the B side cuts that have not previously been released to a wide audience. These tracks give us an in-depth look at how Ben Folds Five works together as a band, and how they have grown and developed through the years. It truly is like looking at a photo album filled with naked baby photos, and wondering, how did they ever become what they are today.
That is not to say that these tracks do not have artistic merit in and of themselves. These tracks are very enjoyable to listen to, and I find myself putting in this cd more and more, since the songs are so very catchy and invigorating. Humor is an indelible quality of this album, and is seen most prominently in tracks like "For thos of Ya'll Who Wear Fanny Packs," an improv rap song which is quite impressive, "Satan is My Master," a short ballad turned oddly satanic, and "The Ultimate Sacrifice," a heavy metal mock song.
The number of great songs make this album well worth the price. This album will be in constant rotation, and you'll be dying to share some of the more humorous tracks with your friends. This cd has helped me to better appreciate the music that Ben Folds Five creates. Ben Folds is one of the best musicians at the moment, and deserves the attention of all.

UNDERGROUND RULES.......2003-08-21

underground rules fight the industry the secret about the song is.....ITS ABOUT DRUGS......hmmmmmmmmm

Average customer rating: Why? loved it Well worth the price "Wandering" and "Protection" are great ... The best of the 3 EP's? No doubt about it.

Speed Graphic Ben Folds Manufacturer: Epic ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music General | Rock | Alternative Styles | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Singer-Songwriters | Pop | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Adult Alternative | Pop | Styles | Music General | Alternative Rock | Indie Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 Alternative Rock | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 Pop | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 Rock | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 All Music | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Super D Sunny 16 Songs for Goldfish Super D The Bens ASIN: B0001K51OO Release Date: 2003-07-22

Tracks:

1. in between days
2. give judy my notice
3. protection
4. dog
5. wandering

Product Description

Limited edition Ben Folds EP. Since Ben has 24-hour studio access while preparing his new album, he's decided to reward his fans by releasing some EPs before the new record is released. Tracks: 1. In Between Days (Robert Smith) 2. Give Judy My Notice (Folds) 3. Protection (Folds/Goodman) 4. Dog (Folds/Olson) 5. Wandering (Folds/Jessee)

Customer Reviews:

Why?.......2006-01-04

Why pay upwards of 40 dollars for this EP and the other two, when you can get them off iTunes for under 5?

loved it.......2005-09-21

the cure cover is the best, but all the songs are great. i also recommend his other two EPs, sunny 16 and super d. they're all wonderful

Well worth the price.......2005-07-27

Great variety and rewarding lyrics. A good companion to Songs for Silverman. I like this version of "Judy" much better.

"Wandering" and "Protection" are great ..........2005-07-03

Otherwise, "In Between Days" is OK. Nice ballad version of "Give Judy My Notice". "Dog" is clever in both piano playing and lyrics.

The best of the 3 EP's? No doubt about it........2005-04-22

EP's are rarely as completely strong as this one; there are virtually no wasted moments on /Speed Graphic/. There's something for the Ben Folds fan in everyone here: quirky weirdness ("Dog"), /Reinhold Messner/-esque melodrama ("Protection"), driving piano pop ("In Between Days"), and the best damn ballads Ben has ever put out in "Wandering" and "Give Judy My Notice." That the latter is going to end up on the upcoming /Songs for Silverman/ is a testament to its strength; its beautiful melody is the highlight of this entire EP collection.

If you have the money, I'd strongly suggest picking up all three of the 2004 EP's (/Sunny 16/ and /Super D/ are the others), but if you only have the money for one, /Speed Graphic/ is the EP of choice.

Average customer rating:

Cotton-Poly Blend Vanessa Van Spall Manufacturer: n/a ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Contemporary Blues | Blues | Styles | Music General | Dance Pop | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music General | Adult Contemporary | Pop | Styles | Music ASIN: B000P9GWN0 Release Date: 2007-03-29

Tracks:

1. Hopeful
2. I Couldn't Cry
3. Follow Me
4. Palm Of Your Hand
5. Truth
6. Not Sorry
7. Foolish Bride
8. Ivory Lady
9. After The Fall
10. Rapture
11. Save Me
12. You Open My Eyes

Product Description

Vanessa Van Spall explores spiritual and emotional experiences through a melding of rock, blues, gospel and pop. Vocals soar over sultry grooves, driving keyboards and catchy viola riffs, fusing elements of Motown and late-era Beatles with the vocal styles of Annie Lennox, Sarah Mclachlan, Aretha Franklin and Sheryl Crow. All songs are written together by Ian Hisert and Vanessa Van Spall. Hear samples at http://vanessavanspall.com/music.html

Average customer rating:

Sunny 16 Manufacturer: Damaged Pop/BMG ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Adult Alternative | Pop | Styles | Music Similar Items: Speed Graphic Super D The Unauthorized Biography Of Reinhold Messner Songs for Goldfish Fear of Pop: Vol. 1 ASIN: B00099I67G

Product Description

Song Listing: 1) There's Always Someone Cooler Than You 2) You've Got To Learn To Live With What You Are 3) All You Can Eat 4) Rock Star 5) Songs Of Love

Average customer rating:

That Couldve Gone Better Manufacturer: Let's Break ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Folk | Styles | Music ASIN: B000CAEI9C Release Date: 2003-03-25

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6. Changes in Latitudes Changes in Attitudes
7. Chicago II (Repackaged) [Original recording remastered] [Extra tracks]
8. Chicago Transit Authority [Box set] [Original recording remastered]
9. Christmas Trilogy [Box set]
10. Classified

Rap Music

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