Messenger [ENHANCED CD]

Messenger [ENHANCED CD]

Editorial Reviews

Amazon.com
Edwin McCain struck gold with his 1997 release, Misguided Roses, which sold half a million copies and spawned the Dawson's Creek-driven hit single "I'll Be," so he's probably earned the right to think big. That's what he does on Messenger, attacking his new set of songs with fleshed-out arrangements, several of which involve string sections and horns. Fans of McCain's more stripped-down fare will be disappointed by his rather bold-faced move toward the middle of the road, the most egregious example being the Diane Warren-penned ballad "I Could Not Ask for More," which is typically syrupy and overwrought. McCain's acoustic-driven "Ghosts of Jackson Square" is more on target, as is the soulful "Wish on the World" and the bouncy "Beautiful Life." Fans of "I'll Be" will enjoy hearing it again here, this time in a hushed vocals-guitar-sax version that's even more direct and affecting than the original. --Daniel Durchholz

Messenger [ENHANCED CD],Edwin McCain Band,Atlantic / Wea,Adult Alternative Pop/Rock,American Trad Rock,Pop,Rock,Rock/Pop,Singer/Songwriter


Messenger [ENHANCED CD]

Happy Trails
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • wonderful
  • If you liked "Live Dead", You'll love this
  • A musical experience like no other....
  • Severely Overrated!!!
  • Happy Trails by Quicksilver Messenger Service
Happy Trails
Quicksilver Messenger Service
Manufacturer: Capitol
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

GeneralGeneral | Rock | Styles | Music
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Similar Items:
  1. Quicksilver Messenger Service
  2. It's a Beautiful Day
  3. Classic Masters
  4. Twelve Dreams of Dr. Sardonicus
  5. Electric Music for the Mind and Body

ASIN: B000002UTY
Release Date: 1994-08-09

Tracks:

  1. Who Do You Love Part 1
  2. When Do You Love
  3. Where Do You Love
  4. How Do You Love
  5. Which Do You Love
  6. Who Do You Love Part 2
  7. Mona
  8. Maiden Of The Cancer Moon
  9. Calvary
  10. Happy Trails

Album Details

Digitally Remastered. Includes Extensive Booklet.

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars wonderful.......2007-06-24

I went in expecting an album with an old, lackluster guitar sound and uninteresting guitar playing because, let me be honest, there's a lot of guitar playing from the 60's that doesn't sound good to me. Let me take that back- it SOUNDS good, but the notes aren't inspiring me to continue listening because it's mostly a guitar playing over simple blues rhythms and whatnot. It's alright in small doses, but not in great quantities for me.

However, Happy Trails is just the opposite. The reviewer below is right- if you like the Grateful Dead's "Live/Dead" album or even some of the spookier Doors moments when they are letting loose and jamming out, this album won't disappoint. Throw in some melodic guitar jams with lots of delicious licks and really good and unpredictable bass work, and you got yourself a quality album.

Even if you don't care for the versions of "Who Do You Love" that you may have heard, you can ignore all those versions because this is a VERY different song. It takes the theme of that song and expands and builds on the melody in various ways. An album created to satisfy all the guitar jam fans out there. It's awesome. A must buy.

5 out of 5 stars If you liked "Live Dead", You'll love this.......2007-05-15

A few have labeled this a dull or booring, I'd assume that they don't have a background in other aspects of improvizational music - jazz, ragas... If you're used to the pop format (frequently associated with comercialized drivel from my perspective) - don't buy this unless you are wanting to expand your musical horizons.

These were musicians playing music for the music, not for major $$$s.

By the way, for those who like the dual lead format, Wishbone Ash was and still is dual lead - check out Argus for starters (from around the same era - esp the cuts "The King will Come" and "Warrior"). The re-issue CD has some bonus live tracks, with an extended version of Phoenix.

Also, back around that time, Fleetwood Mac was also dual lead - check out "Then Play On", esp the cuts "Rattlesnake Shake" and the two cuts about "Madge".

Also, regarding Dino V, I heard QMS live at the Ampitheator twice in Chicago, once pre-Dino and once after - definately liked them better With John C.

Hope this helps,

Scott

5 out of 5 stars A musical experience like no other...........2007-04-22

When I'd discovered this album in the early 80s (I'm a very late baby boomer), I thought it was "different," but interesting. I wasn't sure what to think of it. Shortly thereafter, when I listened to it "experienced" (hopefully you pick up what I mean), it blew me away to the point that I thought it was one of the greatest recordings ever made. I still do (and I stopped dropping over 20 years ago). It goes beyond rock & roll (matter of fact, to dub this these tunes/performances mere rock is doing it an injustice) - it was like every note played and every beat stroked by the band was so tight and intricate - as well as the timing - it just took you on a ride I can't even describe. From the beginning twang to the last drum beat, including the incredible solos from each of the four members, as well as how each of them complemented each other, it is something beyond words. I mean time just completely stood still until the very last note was played and the needle in the groove lifted off the vinyl.

The hard part was to get enough strength to get up and turn the record over to side 2! Then that whole 2nd side just took you on a completely different journey. All I know is, whenever we dropped, Happy Trails was ALWAYS played. A night wasn't complete without jamming out to this album (Hendrix's 'Axis: Bold As Love' was another favorite).

I saw John Cipollina perform with a group called The Dinosaurs in a small rock hall in Denver, back in 1983. It was probably one of the best performances I ever saw, completely blew me away. That's what turned me onto Quicksilver, later coming across this album. By the way....some of you may recall that the front cover art (depicting the man riding away on the horse) morphed into something completely different (as the artist intended it), while dropping. I mean this whole album - inside & out - was an experience in itself.

2 out of 5 stars Severely Overrated!!!.......2007-03-20

It seems that a lot of the folks reviewing this CD still spend a lot of time with with their bongs. Yes, it's a pretty good record. But a little of the Bo Diddley beat goes a long way, and 30 plus minutes of it overstays its welcome. And for my money, Gary Duncan cuts John Cipollina to shreds; John's OVERUSE of the whammy bar takes a lot away from his playing. The cd's "Quicksilver" and "Comin' Thru" are much better than this one. I recommend this for completists only......

5 out of 5 stars Happy Trails by Quicksilver Messenger Service.......2007-03-09

Classic Filmore West Rock. Just as good as as it was on vinyl years ago (too many). Has the longest recorded version of "Who Do You Love" that I have ever heard.
Quicksilver Messenger Service
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • "Gold And Silver" awaits those that purchase the CD
  • Quicksilver
  • Actually, I like these guys
  • Quicksilver Messenger Service - Classic Filmore West Rock
  • Who Do You Love?
Quicksilver Messenger Service
Quicksilver Messenger Service
Manufacturer: Capitol
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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  1. Happy Trails
  2. Electric Music for the Mind and Body
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  4. Moby Grape
  5. Just for Love

ASIN: B000002UTX
Release Date: 1994-08-09

Tracks:

  1. Pride Of Man
  2. Light Your Windows
  3. Dino's Song
  4. Gold And Silver
  5. Too Long
  6. The Fool

Amazon.com

Prior to this album's release, Quicksilver contributed two fine songs to the soundtrack of the film Revolution. Vocalist Dino Valente's subsequent drug bust and incarceration didn't prevent them from playing live, but it did delay the completion of their first album. Quicksilver's debut was consequently more mature than those of their late-1960s San Francisco Sound brethren--Big Brother, the Grateful Dead, and Jefferson Airplane. Quicksilver's first outing offers long instrumental passages and a communal attitude toward vocals and solos. Overall, however, QMS, while enjoyable and historically important, pales next to the band's innovative second release, Happy Trails. --James Swift

Customer Reviews:

4 out of 5 stars "Gold And Silver" awaits those that purchase the CD.......2007-07-15

As the author of the Jefferson Airplane book "Take Me To A Circus Tent" and a former radio disc-jockey, I am often asked to write and or discuss various music supplies and recordings from the 60's and 70's.

It didn't take long for the 1968 debut from Quicksilver Messenger Service to make an impact. The leadoff tune "Pride Of Man" (Written by Hamilton Camp in 1964) would become synonymous with David Freiberg. To this day he performs it as a member of the Jefferson Starship. "Light Your Windows" is beauty in motion. The words flow flawlessly and the only shortcoming is the length of the tune not reaching three minutes. Dino Valente's "Dino's Song" follows in all its brilliance. Dino was in jail at the time of the recording sessions. The artistry of the song is without a flaw. The vocals are delivered with conviction and the instrumentation has a sincerity attached. "Gold And Silver" (Instrumental) lets the guitars of John Cipollina and Gary Duncan take center stage. If the production sounds exceptional during the high-energy display, give thanks to Nick Gravenites (Electric Flag) and Harvey Brooks (Miles Davis and Electric Flag to name only a couple) behind the scenes. "It's Been Too Long" continues with terrific instrumentation and a solid vocal. To end a memorable debut the twelve minute "The Fool" lets you encompass the many facets of QMS. May 1968 forever etched in the minds of those in and around San Francisco.


Enjoy the music and be well,
Craig Fenton
Author of the Jefferson Airplane book "Take Me To A Circus Tent"

5 out of 5 stars Quicksilver.......2007-06-03

I forgot how good it is. Infact unlike some old things revisited this music was even better than I remembered it to be. A friend had told me how difficult it had been to find this band's work. I was so pleased to see Amazon had listed it. It is classic rock at it's best and made this old guy feel 18. Far out!

2 out of 5 stars Actually, I like these guys.......2007-03-12

They had a swagger at Monterey 67 and were in the right place at the right time. I like about 3 tracks on this album (their first and best). I can't recommend it to the masses, I purchased this mainly for historical purposes. You MUST listen to Jefferson Airplane (first 2 albums only), Peanut Butter Conspiracy (first 2 albums only), Grateful Dead (skip first 2 ablums) before you dig this deep for lost nuggets.

5 out of 5 stars Quicksilver Messenger Service - Classic Filmore West Rock.......2007-03-09

Just as good as it ever was on vinyl, more years ago than I really want to admit.

5 out of 5 stars Who Do You Love?.......2006-11-10

One of the best, if not the best from this band. A must have for all fans of QMS
At the Kabuki Theatre
Average customer rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars
  • Don't Waste Your Money
  • An Important Relic
  • Performance pretty inspired, recording primitive......
  • A very enjoyable recording
  • For Die-Hard Fans Only
At the Kabuki Theatre
Quicksilver Messenger Service
Manufacturer: Snapper UK
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Similar Items:
  1. Last Flight
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ASIN: B000MMLMYO
Release Date: 2007-02-26

Tracks:

  1. Fresh Air
  2. New Year's Jam
  3. Baby, Baby
  4. Too Far
  5. Truth
  6. You're Gonna Need Somebody on Your Bond
  7. Doctor Feelgood
  8. Cobra
  9. Song for Frisco
  10. Mona
  11. Subway

Tracks:

  1. What About Me
  2. Call on Me
  3. Pride of Man
  4. Local Colour
  5. Not Fade Away
  6. Mojo
  7. Freeway Flyer
  8. Subway [Studio Rehersal][*]
  9. Castles in the Sand [Studio Rehersal][*]
  10. Look Over Yonder Wall/State Farm [Studio Rehersal][*]
  11. SeBlues [Studio Rehersal][*]

Album Details

Recorded in December of 1970 in San Francisco, this is the Last Show Recorded with Members John Cipollina and Dino Valenti. Includes 18 Live Tracks and a Bonus Four Studio Tracks Recorded in 1969 with Nicky Hopkins.

Customer Reviews:

1 out of 5 stars Don't Waste Your Money.......2007-07-06

I'm a fan of Quicksilver and saw them many times, but this recording is just horrible. Big dropouts where everyone's playing and then, blam, just a vocal and a tinny guitar, then it will switch back to the full band. Almost like someone was going "what's this switch do?".
This recording is just horrible and should never have been commerically released.

4 out of 5 stars An Important Relic.......2007-06-18

I was fortunate to see Quicksilver Messenger Service in concert on two occasions, and this welcome release is a terrific souvenir of a great band. The sound quality is hardly state of the art, but that's a minor quibble. Of primary importance is the fact that this is the only live document (except for bootleg recordings) of QMS with both John Cippolina and Dino Valenti in the line-up. And as David Crosby once declared, Valenti "does his level best to stir up your guts with a spoon!" I prefer Dino's ballads (check out his 1968 solo album), but here he's obviously "up" for a largely high voltage gig. Even if one finds his voice an acquired taste, the double leads by Cippolina and Gary Duncan are not to be missed. In the final analysis, well over half of what's presented here is essential Quicksilver.

3 out of 5 stars Performance pretty inspired, recording primitive.............2007-06-18

Back around the time this was recorded, Stereo Review magazine was publishing some fabulous monthly reviews of contemporary music, written by Mr. Steve Simels. Back in that analog age, it was necessary to divide the review into two pieces, the quality of the music and the quality of the actual recording. The recording here, most of the time, sounds like it was done on a battery powered mini reel to reel, and occasionally spliced together from different source tapes! Jarring changes in volume and tone, muffles, etc. As to the music, the first CD is pretty doggone inspired, rocks on very well, maybe the liveliest version of "You're Gonna Need Somebody On Your Bond" (mis-typed as "Band") I ever heard. Dino Valente's distinct high lonesome vocals, solid drumming, driving guitars, etc. The second disc is generally painful with a few bright moments, but mostly dispensable.

5 out of 5 stars A very enjoyable recording.......2007-06-08

This is a most enjoyable recording which benefits from being played repeatedly, loud, in a car with a good stereo with at leat four speakers. Initially,indoors, I was disappointed because I thought John Cipollina was too far back in the mix and I wasn't sure about the sound quality. But, like many live recordings, it improves the more you listen to it. There is improvisation and atmosphere in the performance, which is not present in the studio material of this period. When you know what to listen for, you will hear John playing on the left and Gary on the right, "duelling" wonderfully, with probably the best live vocal permormances I have heard by the band. As someone who is too young to have seen the band live, this is a delight. I wish some more recordings would be released.

3 out of 5 stars For Die-Hard Fans Only.......2007-06-02

I'm a sucker when it comes to Quicksilver Messenger Service. I fell in love with Happy Trails, and really enjoyed their first album. Everything else after that was always a hit and miss proposition. Each subsequent album had it's glorious moments, but were interspersed with sub-par, almost amateur songs. And... I hate Dino's voice. But... this album had the dual guitar attack of John and Gary, and the set-list didn't sound half bad, so I plunked down the money to buy it. As mentioned before, this is from a radio broadcast so the quality of the song is good, but not great (and sometimes bad). The performances, again, are hit and miss. And... no one in the band seems to know how to end a song! So many flubs. But... there are some great guitar solos, and for the most part John and Gary are sounding great.

If you don't know who QMS is, then get Happy Trails. You won't be disappointed. If you are a "completist", then add this to your collection. Just be forewarned the quality of the recording is just so-so. There are a few gems in here, but also a lot of mediocre stuff as well.
Messenger [ENHANCED CD]
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • Proving the Indie Rock Movement can be a Commercial Success
  • A BEST EVER
  • Everyone should own this cd
  • Heartbreaking but awesome!
  • The best of the best
Messenger [ENHANCED CD]
Edwin McCain Band
Manufacturer: Atlantic / Wea
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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  1. Misguided Roses
  2. Honor Among Thieves
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ASIN: B00000J7SV
Release Date: 1999-06-15

Tracks:

  1. Wish In This World
  2. Beautiful Life
  3. Promise Of You
  4. Ghosts Of Jackson Square
  5. I Could Not Ask For More
  6. Do Your Thing
  7. Prayer To St. Peter
  8. Go Be Young
  9. Anything Good About Me
  10. I'll Be (Acoustic Version)
  11. Sign On The Door
  12. See Off This Mountain

Amazon.com

Edwin McCain struck gold with his 1997 release, Misguided Roses, which sold half a million copies and spawned the Dawson's Creek-driven hit single "I'll Be," so he's probably earned the right to think big. That's what he does on Messenger, attacking his new set of songs with fleshed-out arrangements, several of which involve string sections and horns. Fans of McCain's more stripped-down fare will be disappointed by his rather bold-faced move toward the middle of the road, the most egregious example being the Diane Warren-penned ballad "I Could Not Ask for More," which is typically syrupy and overwrought. McCain's acoustic-driven "Ghosts of Jackson Square" is more on target, as is the soulful "Wish on the World" and the bouncy "Beautiful Life." Fans of "I'll Be" will enjoy hearing it again here, this time in a hushed vocals-guitar-sax version that's even more direct and affecting than the original. --Daniel Durchholz

Customer Reviews:

4 out of 5 stars Proving the Indie Rock Movement can be a Commercial Success.......2005-08-31

The 1990s music landscape saw Alternative Rock begin to basically become part of the mainstream music fold. However, Alternative Rock also began to produce many other off-shoots. This was because there was a perception that groups such as "Nirvana" and "Gin Blossoms" would "sell out" to commercial culture. As a result, a sub-movement within Alternative Rock began to form called "Indie Rock". The "Indie" stands for independent. It is a style of music that often covers a wide variety of genres, often working on independent record labels, but most importantly the artist maintains complete control of the music and their careers. However as Indie Rock stars gained popularity, even this term began to blur a bit. One artist who rose to popularity in the Indie Rock movement was Edwin McCain. Edwin McCain's second album "Misguided Roses" produced one of the biggest hits of 1997 and 1998 called "I'll Be". While I always felt that this was an overrated song, it did give McCain's career the boost it needed. While McCain's commercial success might have put his "Indie Rock" status in question, his style would still remain true to the "Indie Rock" roots. It would be McCain's third album, "Messenger" that would show his "Indie Rock" roots. Surprisingly, this album didn't garner the critical acclaim that I would have expected.

As mentioned, a key facet to the "Indie Rock" movement is maintaining complete control of the music - in other words, doing things your own way. For the most part, with McCain, this is not an issue. The sound on "Messenger" by McCain is as "Coffee House" as you can get. There is a lot of use of acoustic (even if it is electric acoustic) guitars. McCain supplements this sound very nicely with the use of saxophones and horns. He also makes a stronger use of drums and percussions than most "Coffee House" style artists.

McCain is also one very talented songwriter. As for doing things "his own way", this is very evident on "Messenger". McCain penned 11 of the 12 tracks. One might give him some criticism for using a song ("I Could Not Ask For More") written by a very "commercial songwriter" like Diane Warren, but McCain puts his own spin on that track. After all, part of Indie Rock is doing things your own way - and that is very evident on that track.

McCain's songwriting includes a wide variety of topics. Most notably, McCain's spirituality surfaces in the song "A Prayer to St. Peter". This is an acoustic sounding song that I'm shocked didn't garner more attention on the Christian Contemporary circuit. While McCain does include other spiritual/religious references on "Messenger" (such as "Ghost of Jackson Square", "Sign on the Door", "Beautiful Life", and even on Warren's "I Could Not Ask For More"). I would say it's safe to say that McCain is a Christian influenced musician. McCain also sings on other topics - such as a tribute to his grandmother ("See Off This Mountain"); Alcoholism ("Sign on the Door" and "Go Be Young"); and of course love and romance ("Wish In This World", "Promise of You", I'll Be")

As far as McCain's songwriting goes, it is his use of metaphors that really hits home. While I did feel "I'll Be" was an overrated song, this was a song that did use metaphors very well (i.e. "Emeralds from mountains thrust from the sky", "Rain falls angry on the tin roof"). McCain carries this trademark over to "Messenger". This is seen on several tracks such as: "Wish in this World" ("Running to grass so green; Dangerous road, but it's not going to change"); "Ghost of Jackson Square" ("But fall from the height; my personal ledges; afraid to look down; my crepe paper bridges; enough water to drawn"); "Prayer to St. Peter" ("The taste of summer; and a ripened pear; and girls sweet as meadow wind"); and Sign on the Door ("With a Sign on the Door; Saying sorry we're closed").

Throughout the album, the balance between McCain's haunting vocals and the outstanding work done by his band are really done well. There isn't a bad track on this collection. Perhaps the best example of the balance between the vocals and band work is on "Go Be Young". This song got a lot of airplay and deserved it - it is the best track on the album. "I Could Not Ask for More" also get some attention as well - and also well deserved. There are many other tracks that I'm surprised didn't garner more airplay or attention - such as "Wish In This World", "Beautiful Life", "Prayer to St. Peter", "Ghosts of Jackson Square", and "Do Your Thing". "Sign on the Door" is another standout track that takes on almost a gospel-like feel toward the end of the track.

My only criticism of "Messenger" is the inclusion of the "acoustic" version "I'll Be". I almost feel that this was included to capitalize on the big success of "I'll Be". Ok, it was a popular song and there may be a market to hear a more "acoustic" sound, but I think this would have been better suited for a greatest hits album. I had mentioned that McCain did things his own way "for the most part". Perhaps the record company put some pressure to include this. While you can say this violates the spirit of the Indie Rock movement, you can also say that perhaps McCain wanted to include this - and did things his own way.

The liner notes contain all of the lyrics to all of the songs as well as the musician and production credits. While "Messenger" would be a commercial success, that would be the last album that McCain would have commercial success. McCain would return to his Indie roots of touring and word of mouth music. But "Messenger" proved that Indie Music can be good even it does sell well. Highly recommended.

5 out of 5 stars A BEST EVER.......2005-08-30

This is simply one of my top 20 favorite CD's of all-time. I'm 40 years old, and have heard a lot of 'albums' and trust me, this one is right in there.
If you like Edwin at all, you will love this album.

5 out of 5 stars Everyone should own this cd.......2004-08-06

This is one of my very favorite cds. By far the best by Edwin McCain, and among the best albums I've ever heard. Buy it. Get an extra copy for a friend.

4 out of 5 stars Heartbreaking but awesome!.......2003-05-24

Edwin Mcwinain. what can I say about him? I'm 17 years old and when I went to a concert of his, because his following is not all that large (what a shame) most people were surprised to see a person so young, there. they asked me how I knew about him. I said that I had heard him on the show "Dawson's Creek" a few years before and fell in love with his music. I have this CD ("Messenger") and I highly recommend it. Edwin's lyrics are so beautiful and meaninful and his voice is sooo sooothing. Edwin has that great combo of Pop, Blues, Jazz, Country and Rock, ALL INTO ONE! it's hard to explain but I love it. I met him once a few months ago and I'm going to see him again next week.

5 out of 5 stars The best of the best.......2002-02-27

This is my personal favorite. It's a shame McCain doesn't have a greater following. Everything on this album is poetic in every sense. The instrumentation is fantastic and the lyrics, the true brilliance of the music, are amazing. There is a fantastic acoustic version of "I'll Be" that is quieter, tamer and features the lyrics, though it loses the wonderful saxophone pieces that are that song's trademark. True to that, this album is quieter all around, with the noteable exception of "Anything Good About Me," which is really the only 'rock' song here. "Beautiful Life" and "Just Do Your Thing" are eloquent commentaries on life today. Though this album doesn't have much of the upbeat tunes like "Guinevere" or "Alive" common to Edwin McCain's earlier albums, it is poetic an moving. Edwin McCain's best songs are rarely released on the radio waves and anyone who misses them is really missing out.
Classic Masters
Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
  • unadulterated rock-n- roll
  • Better Remembered
  • 60's revisited
  • Return to the origin of modern music
  • Disappointing - sounds muffled and flat
Classic Masters
Quicksilver Messenger Service
Manufacturer: EMI Special Products
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Similar Items:
  1. Happy Trails
  2. Quicksilver Messenger Service
  3. The Best of Spirit
  4. It's a Beautiful Day
  5. Anthology

ASIN: B00005V5Q3
Release Date: 2002-01-29

Tracks:

  1. Pride Of Man
  2. Light Your Windows
  3. Who Do You Love (part 1)
  4. Stand By Me
  5. Dino's Song
  6. Shady Grove
  7. Joseph's Coat
  8. Flute Song
  9. Fresh Air
  10. What About Me
  11. Just For Love
  12. Hope

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars unadulterated rock-n- roll.......2007-07-16

At this stage of my life, I do not have the time to listen to as much of the old Hard-Rock music that I would like. However, this QSM gem is always a trip down memory lane. When my wife is out of the house, I crank this up as loud as possible!!!! Oh, to be 20 years old again.

1 out of 5 stars Better Remembered.......2007-03-10

This album/CD was only a few dollars, thankfully! It had, perhaps, two cuts that were worth remembering. Too bad I didn't remember that when I took the offer (like a hungry trout).

It's better left in the dust bin.

4 out of 5 stars 60's revisited.......2007-01-09

Great walk down memory lane. I had forgotten their unique sound, and I enjoyed listening to it once again. You can hear the band grow and change as they moved from rock and roll to their Quicksilver sound.

4 out of 5 stars Return to the origin of modern music.......2007-01-03

Few gen X or Y people know that Quicksilver Messenger Service was another vital piece of the musical pie that came out of the 60's/early 70's..........for those of you who don't know them.....pickup this 'best of' and connect the dots to modern jam bands........good stuff. bcp

2 out of 5 stars Disappointing - sounds muffled and flat.......2006-12-12

I have to disagree strongly with the review below which says that the sound quality on this disc is "superb." It's not. In fact, it's one of the worst sounding discs I've purchased in a long time. On many of the cuts the higher frequencies are missing; this is probably because over long periods of time, recordings on tape (i.e. the master tapes used to produce this CD) deteriorate. As a result, the music sounds dull and muffled. Also, I was surprised how dated many of these songs are, both in musical style and the lyrics. I was a big fan of QMS "back in the day," but this disc is a loser.
Koala Motel
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • Excellent!
  • Damn Good
  • Anne's Best Yet
Koala Motel
Anne McCue
Manufacturer: Messenger Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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  1. Roll
  2. West
  3. Carnival
  4. Long Island Shores
  5. Amazing Ordinary Things

ASIN: B000HIP4F6
Release Date: 2006-09-19

Tracks:

  1. Driving Down Alvarado
  2. From Bakersfield To Saigon
  3. Bright Light Of Day
  4. Hellfire Raiser
  5. Sweet Burden of Youth
  6. Coming To You
  7. Any Minute Now
  8. Jesus' Blood
  9. Shivers
  10. As the Crow Flies
  11. Lay Me Down
  12. Koala Motel

Amazon.com

It's easy to hear why Lucinda Williams (who contributes harmonies here to the haunting "Hellfire Raiser") is such a fan of Australian transplant Annie McCue. Both draw inspiration from country, blues, folk, and classic rock in material that can have a hard edge and a tender heart, with lyrics that show a writerly eye for detail. Yet McCue isn't simply a Lucinda knockoff, but a triple-threat artist--as a singer, songwriter, and electrifying guitarist--who shows considerable command, range, and promise. With vocal support on various tracks from X's John Doe, Heart's Nancy Wilson (who also contributes mandolin), and Jim Lauderdale, highlights include the cinematic opener "Driving Down Alvarado" (with its echoes of the Doors' "Riders on the Storm"), the stripped-down acoustic intimacy of "Sweet Burden of Youth" and "Coming to You," the propulsive urgency of the apocalyptic "Any Minute Now," and a down-and-dirty cover of Tony Joe White's "As the Crow Flies." By the time the twangy atmospherics of the instrumental title track close the album, McCue has covered a considerable expanse of musical territory and made it all her own. --Don McLeese

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Excellent!.......2007-04-28

She is an excellent guitar player and an accomplished songwriter. Get your copy right now.

5 out of 5 stars Damn Good.......2006-11-23

Koala Motel is a powerful album that blends masterful musicianship, gorgeous vocals, enchanting harmonies, and thought provoking lyrics. There are no fillers on this album and every repeat listening experience makes me appreciate the craftsmanship and specialness of each song more and more. Anne McCue's style is accessible to most everyone while at the same time none of the songs on Koala Motal can be considered formulaic. This is a damn good album that deserves heavy rotation treatment.

Anne skillfully pulls many different styles together on this album and she demonstrates them all masterfully. She flat out rocks and kicks a** on tunes like "Driving Down Alvarado," "As the Crow Flies," and "Any Minute Now." "Coming to You" is an intensely passionate ballad that can even the most jaded of listeners will be moved by. "Bright Light of Day" and "Sweet Burden of Youth" have delicious harmonies, with Nancy Wilson (of Heart fame) contributing background vocals on the latter, creating an ethereal experience.

Anne McCue is one of the most gifted and talented songwriter/musicians currently making music today. Her last album, "Roll," was a revelation that set an extremely high bar...and Koala Motel clears it. As good as she comes across on vinyl, she is that much better in concert, and I can't wait to hear these songs live.

This album is a must buy.

5 out of 5 stars Anne's Best Yet.......2006-09-20

This is Anne McCue's best work yet, and that's saying a lot since her previous albums are all outstanding in their own right. Koala Motel features lyrics that alternate between thought-provoking and just plain beautiful. The music is well crafted, and played with supurb musicianship. Anne's guitar playing just gets better and better, and she's always been one of the best. If you're already a fan of Anne's you'll love this and need it for your collection. If you're not familiar with her yet, Koala Motel is a good place to start.
Cosmic Messenger
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • My Favorite Musician
  • Jean-Luc's best?
  • JLP's last really good disc
  • Atmospheric textures
  • Right Up There With the Big Guys
Cosmic Messenger
Jean-Luc Ponty
Manufacturer: Atlantic / Wea
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Similar Items:
  1. Enigmatic Ocean
  2. Imaginary Voyage
  3. Civilized Evil
  4. Mystical Adventures
  5. A Taste for Passion

ASIN: B000002I9J
Release Date: 1990-10-25

Tracks:

  1. Cosmic Messenger
  2. The Art Of Happiness
  3. Don't Let The World Pass You By
  4. I Only Feel Good With You
  5. Puppets' Dance
  6. Fake Paradise
  7. Ethereal Mood
  8. Egocentric Molecules

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars My Favorite Musician.......2007-03-13

Jean Luc Ponty has been my favorite musician since I was fifteen. At that time, I was fascinated about how Jean took a symphonic instrument and made it jazzy. I have almost everything he made on vinyl, so now that I am finally upgrading to a mp3 player, I have to get new CD's. Jean Luc sounds just as good today as he did when I first started collecting him back in 1975. I almost have the complete collection now and it sounds outstanding, probably better now than back then.

5 out of 5 stars Jean-Luc's best?.......2006-04-30

This CD has spellbinding rhythms in the more ethereal tracks - the kind of relatively slow-paced tracks that artfully establish early on that 'moment of connection to the music' that somehow liberates the listeners's soul as the artist's vision behind the musical track comes to life and we are transported to another place. On the whole it's a unique blend of the familiar and the exotic - the ethereally exotic rhythms wedded to the lucidly logical melodic lines. This often-tried experiment is, here, quite successful. Other tracks are high energy - very inspired, and all are infused with a brilliant, pleasingly-structured, readily-identifiable sense of jazz fusion. Stylistically this may be Ponty's singularly most cohesive work. Given his output, that spans well beyond his most prolific stint during the 1970's and '80's, that may well be saying something. I haven't heard everything by him, but, if your looking for something else that, IMHO, gives "Cosmic Messenger" a run for it's money, may I suggest "Mystical Adventures" - another knockout of his. If you look at it like I do, an unresolved toss-up of this magnitude is nothing but a blessing for music fans in general, fans of Jazz fusion in particular or anyone curious to know just what a five string electrified violin can do. I also enjoy "A Taste For Passion", "Civilized Evil" and "Enigmatic Ocean". In any case, Ponty is arguably THE world champion of the five string electrified violin. Not that this instrument is the only feature of merit on the album. Ponty, in this time frame, surrounds himself with truly comparable talent on percussion, an incredible electric bassist and, here, two superb lead guitarists. I don't truly know for myself yet if this is Jean-Luc Ponty's best album, but, so far, I can say it's my favorite. Highly, highly recommended.

4 out of 5 stars JLP's last really good disc.......2004-09-22

1977's "Enigmatic Ocean" was indeed a tough act to follow, given the improvisational and sonic brilliance of one Allan Holdsworth on guitar. So, instead of trying to replicate that disc, Ponty wisely leaned more in a rockier/funky direction for "Cosmic Messenger", knowing that NOBODY could match Holdsworth's unique contributions or even get close.

What results is a collection of songs that retain a lot of the characteristics of Ponty's earlier efforts but a bit leaner and meaner sounding. Of the 2 guitarists, Peter Maunu definitely comes up the most distinct sounding with his soaring melodic bluesy rock sound. What I really enjoyed though was the huge punchy sounding rhythm section of drummer Casey Schurrel and bassist Ralphe Armstrong (I especially loved Ralphe's huge thick growling fretless tone here, deeeeeelicious!). Allan Zavod provides all the appropriately spacey textures with a bank of synths. Have to admit though I would've loved to hear more acoustic instruments as well to balance it out, as it was a bit synth/electronics heavy.

As for the highlights, "Ethereal Mood" is beautifully hypnotic with not much more than acoustic violin, chiming acoustic guitars, fretless bass and tablas, very beautiful haunting melody. On the funkier/rocky side, "Art of Happiness", "Don't Let The World Pass You By" and "Fake Paradise" come out swinging.

The one low point for me is the ending tune "Egocentric Molecules" (corny title BTW!), which sounds more like a mathematical exercise more than it does music. Not one of Ponty's better compositional moments in this Owl's opinion.

Overall, a solid album worth having, but not groundbreaking by any stretch. After this, JLP would seem to just keep making the same record over and over again.

4 out of 5 stars Atmospheric textures.......2004-07-02

These enchanting sounds are made up of electric base, guitars, piano and violin, plus organ, drums, percussion, synthesizers and acoustic guitars. The sound ranges from orchestral and ambient to funky and jazzy.

The music impresses with its varied textures, like the bubbly, rhythmic track The Art Of Happiness that is followed by the more ethereal Don't Let The World Pass You By with its urgent rhythm against a mellow background of synths, or the gentle, evocative I Only Feel Good With You. Puppet's Dance has a jazzy texture, whilst the gentle Ethereal Mood creates just that with its beautiful melody.

The album concludes with Egocentric Molecules which has a full and powerful rock sound driven by electric guitar. The virtuosity of the players is breathtaking. Ponty and team successfully explore various musical avenues on this highly enjoyable album that should appeal to all lovers of ambient and intelligent electronic music.

4 out of 5 stars Right Up There With the Big Guys.......2004-01-21

Of course I've only heard a small fraction of all the music that exists,but of what has come my way,the phenomenal ensemble playing here 'avec mélodie',I find rarely to be equalled[off the top of my head I can only think of 'Earth,Wind & Fire',but of course their respective 'genres' differ]."Great Album"status right close to the very top of my whole humble 120-odd collection.It motors along at a great rate of knots but never strays far from the/a melody...perhaps the musicians being Gallic accounts for there being something refreshing about it too [after a virtually unremitting diet of Anglo-American musical inputs]...
Jazzmatazz, Vol. 4: The Hip Hop Jazz Messenger: Back to the Future
Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
  • Guru - Jazzmatazz, Vol. 4: The Hip Hop Jazz Messenger: Back to the Future
Jazzmatazz, Vol. 4: The Hip Hop Jazz Messenger: Back to the Future
Guru
Manufacturer: V2
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

GeneralGeneral | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music
SoulSoul | Compilations | R&B | Styles | Music
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  1. Jazzmatazz, Vol. 1
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ASIN: B000O7665M
Release Date: 2007-06-04

Tracks:

  1. Cuz I'm Jazzy - Slum Village
  2. State of Clarity - Common, , Bob James
  3. Stand Up - Damian "Junior Gong" Marley
  4. Look to the Sun - Solar
  5. Connection - Kem
  6. Fine and Free - Vivian Green
  7. Wait on Me - Raheem DeVaughn
  8. International - Bobby Valentino
  9. This Is Art - Ronnie Laws,
  10. Fly Magnetic - Dionne Farris
  11. Jazz Style - Omar
  12. Follow the Signs - Shelly Harland
  13. Universal Struggle - Brown Man,
  14. Infinite - Blackalicious
  15. Kissed the World - Caron Wheeler
  16. Living Legend - David Sanborn

Album Description

Jazzmatazz Volume Four gives you all that goodness you've come to expect from the stellar partnership of Guru with "SuperProducer" and fellow New Yorker, Solar. Many talented friends also come through on Jazzmatazz Volume Four to bless the record and be a part of its tradition including Slum Village, Common, Blackalicious and many others who lend their unique voices and styles to the album. V2. 2007.

Album Details

2007 Release of the Fourth Volume of the Revered DJ'S "Jazzmatazz", Titled "The Hip Hop Jazz Messenger: "Back to the Future" that Includes "Stand Up (Some Things'll Never Change)" featuring Damian Marley, One of the Joint's Stand Out Tracks that Helps to Set the Whole Project Ablaze. Other Artists Appearing Include Vivian Green, Blackalicious, the Returns of Caron Wheeler (Soul Ii Soul) and Dionne Farris and Saxophonist David Sanborn. Always Pushing the Envelope, the Set was Entirely Produced by Solar and Co-produced by Guru. Gushing Over the Recording Sessions, Guru Laments: "Since the Inception of "Jazzmatazz", One of the Main Focuses Has Been that it Has Something for Every Generation and Music Lover. It's Timeless. When We Enter Into These Projects We're Working with Artists that Are Relevant and it Provides for that Fresh New Territory. The Tracks Solar and I have Laid Down Are Incredible!".

Customer Reviews:

4 out of 5 stars Guru - Jazzmatazz, Vol. 4: The Hip Hop Jazz Messenger: Back to the Future.......2007-06-20

Guru (A.K.A. Gifted Unlimited Rhymes Universal, Keith Edward Elam) returns with "Jazzmatazz, Vol. 4: The Hip Hop Jazz Messenger: Back to the Future" (2007) a sixteen track release which features guest appearances from Slum Village, Common, Bob James, Damian Marley, Kem, Vivian Green, Raheem DeVaughn, Bobby Valentino, Ronnie Laws, Dionne Farris, Omar, Shelly Harland, Brownman, Blackalicious, Caron Wheeler & David Sanborn. As one half of the groundbreaking group Gangstarr, Guru released many memorable albums, he has also succeeded in delivering memorable solo releases in the Jazzmatazz series. At fourty year's old, Guru is one of the Rap game's veteran's who continues to deliver relevant music, that old and new fans alike can enjoy. This release opens up with "Cuz I'm Jazzy" which has Guru teaming up with T3 & Elzhi of Slum Village. Next up is a highlight track in the single "State of Clarity" - Guru, Common and Bob James (Jazz Keyboards) deliver a substantial track about being true to ones self and avoiding the trife life. Guru tag teams "Stand Up (Some Things'll Never Change) with Damian Marley who provides the chorus. Guru rhymes about change and creating a better future on "Look To The Sun". Guru shines on the introspective "Connection" feat. Kem- delivering more substantial lyrics like "Its so real when it comes from the heart, from deep down inside". Guru flipts the script some and slows things down with "Fine and Free" which features some soulful vocals from Vivian Green, rhyming with confidence - Guru show's his love for Hip Hop and the ladies while repping himself and giving his opinion on sell out MC's. Up and coming soul singer Raheem DeVaughn makes an appearance on "Wait On Me", while Bobby Valentino & Guru travel worldwide on "International". Guru kicks some on point rhymes backed by the sounds of Jazz, Funk & Blues musician Ronnie Laws on "This Is Art". Guru rhymes about a woman whos after him on "Fly Magnetic" backed by some vocals from Dionne Farris, then colloborates with British Singer Omar on "The Jazz Style". Guru takes a trip looking for a special lady on "Follow The Signs" backed by smooth vocals from Shelly Harland. My favourite track at the moment is the deep "The Universal Struggle" feat. Brownman, Guru delivers some excellent lyrics on this conscious track about how people worldwide face the same struggles, talking about showing resilience in the face of danger and overcoming. Guru then collabs with Rap duo Blackalicious on "Infinite" - letting it be known he won't be leaving the game anytime soon and that the music he delivers goes beyond simple rhymes to deep thoughts. Guru provides another international collaboration this time with female British Singer Caron Wheeler (hook) on "Kissed The World" a track about George Bush and the War. Guru closes off the album with "Living Legend" backed by the sounds of Saxophonist David Sanborn. It's refreshing to listen to a grounded MC who has a significant social conscious, and drops positive on point rhymes. "Jazzmatazz, Vol. 4: The Hip Hop Jazz Messenger: Back to the Future" is a strong release worth checking out.
Elton John And Tim Rice's Aida (1999 Concept Album)
Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
  • I would order from you again.
  • Loved it!!!
  • good variety and feeling
  • Sour Concepts
  • Living Elaborate Lives...
Elton John And Tim Rice's Aida (1999 Concept Album)
Jimmy Johnson , Juliet Haffner , Regis Iandiorio , Tony Kadleck , Elena Barere , Blackwell, Virgil , and Clark, John
Manufacturer: Island
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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  1. Aida (2000 Original Broadway Cast)
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  5. Made in England

ASIN: B00000IFTH
Release Date: 1999-03-23

Tracks:

  1. Another Pyramid - Sting
  2. Written In The Stars - Elton John/LeAnn Rimes
  3. Easy As Life - Tina Turner ft. Angelique Kidjo
  4. My Strongest Suit - Spice Girls
  5. I Know TheTruth - Elton John/Janet Jackson
  6. Not Me - Boyz II Men
  7. Amneris' Letter - Shania Twain
  8. A Step Too Far - Elton John/Heather Headley/Sherie Scott
  9. Like Father Like Son - Lenny Kravitz
  10. Elaborate Lives - Heather Headley
  11. How I Know you - James Taylor
  12. The Messenger - Elton John/Lulu
  13. The Gods Love Nubia - Kelly Price
  14. Enchantment Passing Through - Dru Hill
  15. Orchestral Finale - Elton John

Amazon.com

Following hot on the heels of their enormously successful collaboration for The Lion King, Elton John and Tim Rice have once again culled their talents to create another Disney contemporary musical, based this time on Verdi's opera Aida. The album, recorded by some of the biggest talents of pop, country, and R&B, features songs from the stage show, which recounts the well-known tale of a love triangle further complicated by slavery, royalty, and the armed forces. John duets to great effect with country crooner LeAnn Rimes, the enchanting Janet Jackson, and the lovely Lulu of To Sir with Love fame. Lush and lively, the soundtrack hits a hoot of a (decidedly not highbrow) high point with the infectious pop of the Spice Girls warbling the merits of undergarments on "My Strongest Suit" ("Always wear underwear/Anytime, anywhere"). Lenny Kravitz funks things up with "Like Father Like Son." Shania Twain's husky emoting makes a fine pop ballad of the brief "Amneris' Letter." "Not Me" chronicles the goodness of love as Boyz II Men coo dreamily, their harmonies nestling into John's sumptuous score. --Paige La Grone

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars I would order from you again........2007-01-27

Product arrived in a timely manner in new condition, still wrapped in plastic. Thank you.

5 out of 5 stars Loved it!!!.......2006-09-07

I'm so impressed with this album for several different reasons.
3) It's Elton John
2) I loved all but two of the songs!
1) I usually hate the original broadway cast albums and movie soundtracks. They don't do the songs justice. They usually have chopped up versions of the songs and include unnecessary dialouge.

I'd love to see every musical (broadway or movie) done this way!
I appreciate the b'way versions, but I don't want to listen to them in my car...

4 out of 5 stars good variety and feeling.......2004-06-24

This is a very good CD. "Written in the Stars" is an extremely emotional song, and it is my favorite on the album. I would like to see the show on Broadway, but I have to say I don't think it can be too much better than this CD

2 out of 5 stars Sour Concepts.......2003-06-29

It takes so much to try to get a musical to make its way upon Broadway. Sometimes you really need to understand how to make it really happen within the passion of the storytelling music. In that case with Elton John, he nearly seemed to make it with Aida. While the music for Broadway always seems to have at least something completely mgaical and a dash of power in it. Sometimes, you really need to understand it, to make it happen, and others don't see it from the start. Although Elton John has had great music for years, at least once in a era, something goes a little flat.

The 1999 Aida, was not a studio album from Elton, but a preview from what was happen on Broadway. The various artists record contains so many different artists in the record including Tina Turner, Boyz II Men, Dru Hill, and the upcoming Heather Headley. Before Heather made it as a singer, she made it right here in Aida, on this record. The only decent song that was a hit was Written In The Stars, which Elton performed with Leann Rimes. The song was also the last song Elton cracked Billboard's Top 40. Still, there really wasn't a lot of enjoyment within most of the record, and it fell into a sleeper. Considering that Elton is already planning on making another smash musical on Broadway, hopefully he'll do better with the concept record.

When it does come to making it on Broadway, it isn't really anything exciting, unless it truly is a smash, and Aida is a smash on Broadway, just not the record. Still, if you're a die hard fan of Aida, buy this record. Otherwise, it could be a hitless miss.

5 out of 5 stars Living Elaborate Lives..........2002-11-02

Aida was Elton John and Tim Rice's baby, providing a concept soundtrack album before even setting the stage on fire, the tracks are generally sweeping show ballads.
Elton teams up with several lovely and talented ladies, in LeAnn Rimes, Janet Jackson, and Lulu. "Written In The Stars" could be a vocal gladiator battle, the way LeAnn and Elton sing it. Janet and Lulu prove themselves as more mellow duet partners.
Kelly Price makes "The Gods Love Nubia" her own, the song is tied up in soul with her voice being smooth as silk. The far too short "Amneris' Letter" shows off Shania Twain's voice to perfection also. Pop culture phenomenon the Spice Girls turn "My Strongest Suit" into the most obvious pop stomper of this set. Another strong point is Heather Headley's solo "Elaborate Lives". A rich ballad, Headley recently embarked on an R&B singing career with the track "He Is". The legendary Tina Turner provides a fiery perfomance, her track being the powerful "Easy As Life" with Angelique Kidjo.
Duds are also present, Sting and Dru Hill's tracks are admitted stinkers. James Taylor, Boyz II Men, Sherie Scott, and Lenny Kravitz also deliver perfomances on the album. This album is well put together, with strong tunes and a short-list of superstars presenting them. A fun buy.
What About Me
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • Why the hefty price tag?
  • an album that produced with its title song an anthem of sorts for its day
  • Peaceful Music
  • Super but not the best
What About Me
Quicksilver Messenger Service
Manufacturer: Bgo - Beat Goes on
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

GeneralGeneral | Rock | Styles | Music
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  1. Just for Love
  2. Quicksilver
  3. Comin' Thru
  4. Happy Trails
  5. Quicksilver Messenger Service

ASIN: B000006ZU6
Release Date: 1997-06-10

Tracks:

  1. What About Me
  2. Local Color
  3. Baby Baby
  4. Won't Kill Me
  5. Long Haired Lady
  6. Subway
  7. Spindrifter
  8. Good Old Rock and Roll
  9. All in My Mind
  10. Call on Me

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Why the hefty price tag?.......2006-09-30

I love this lp and Just For Love but why is this one $4 more? And the offer to buy this and Just For Love together is no deal, it's the same price as separately. C'mon amazon, get your poop in a group.

5 out of 5 stars an album that produced with its title song an anthem of sorts for its day.......2006-09-02

A suitable follow-up to the group's seminal (fourth) album, "Just For Love", the album, "What About Me", produced soon after its release with its title song a widely-played anthem of sorts for the early 1970's. The title song was aired repeatedly over the radio on numerous progressive-rock FM stations from coast to coast. It was written by Dino Valente; the song's lyrics reflected the songwriter's concern for the environment as well as his strong distaste for certain laws of the land at that time, specifically, laws prohibiting the use of some recreational drugs. The song, "What About Me", was a forceful, and yet a typical, protest song of the late 1960's and early 1970's, played over the airwaves during a period of time when the country was engulfed in numerous protests that took on a wide range of issues, including protests against our nation's involvement in faraway Vietnam, an unjust war that, for a good number of years, had no visible end in sight. Fortunately, with the eventual passage of time, positive change did come!!

Certain tracks on this particular album were recorded during the same sessions in Hawaii that produced its predecessor. As a result, the lineup of the band, in essence, remained unchanged on this album with the heart of the group's driving force consisting of two(2) competent lead guitarists in John Cipollina and Gary Duncan, and the infamous piano player, Nicky Hopkins. The rest of the band consisted of David Freiberg on bass, Greg Elmore on drums, and the late Dino Valente as singer and songwriter.

Soon after the recording of these "twin" albums, namely, "Just For Love" and "What About Me", the band's lineup began gradually to change. With the arrival of Dino Valente at this particular time during the group's history, and just in time to inject some much-needed energy, there appeared to be a sudden shift in power within the group and thereupon, a slight change in its musical direction, too. Mr. Valente's immediate background, prior to rejoining the band, had been as a solo artist in New York City. Consequently, the band now began to record an occasional ballad or two sung by Mr. Valente, in contrast to the band's other tracks that reflected San Francisco's brand of harder (and at times, psychedelic) rock. Having had rejoined the band as lead singer, Dino Valente became the group's frontman on stage and, for better or worse, the band's de facto leader, as oftentimes was the case within a rock band at that time when the lead singer and writer of most of a band's songs took the helm.

The title song of this album, "What About Me", was similar in its intensity and stance (critical of society's ills) to another song that Dino Valente had recorded during his days in New York City while he sang as a lone troubadour. The song, "Children of the Sun", likewise became popular, and with time, it grew to become another anthem of sorts for its day. As such, it received its share of airplay on the radio, too, but predominantly in California and on the West Coast. (The song can still be heard on Dino Valente's only solo album, "Dino Valente.")

5 out of 5 stars Peaceful Music.......2006-08-31

I am not a music critic who will cite numerous reasons why certain songs should or shouldn't be on a CD, but I do know what I like. This is something that I find extremely relaxing, and I play it for the same reason I listen to CSN, The Grateful Dead, It's A Beautiful Day or Van Morrison. It is an incredible collection of songs. I would find it interesting if a critique would mention songs on this album not making it onto any radio program, because I grew up during the sixties, and it was a trend to want things that didn't get air play. Everyone wanted the "underground" sound. This album has it. I listen to it when I need escape from the stress of day-to-day [...] I listen to it when I need to relax my hands that grip the wheel when I drive in busy traffic.

4 out of 5 stars Super but not the best.......2000-06-30

This was an excellent album, but it lacked some of the great songs such as Fresh Air. Other than the song choice, the album was great. The guitar playing was just as great as their other albums. I would only get this one if I really liked Quicksilver. If I were just a person whose friends had reccomended it, I would get something along the lines of the anthology because that has all of their really big hits. But if you want to hear some not as famous songs, but just a good, get this one. This is a great cd for listening to on loong trips becuase everybody will like. My dad who usually listens to Tony Bennet, my mom who listens to the Stones, and me (I listen to punk rock) all listen to Quicksilver and we have no arguements about listening to it.

Rap Music:

  1. Michael Bolton - Greatest Hits 1985-1995
  2. Now That's What I Call Music! 17
  3. Now, Vol. 20
  4. One Fell Swoop [Enhanced]
  5. One Heart
  6. One Night Only [Live]
  7. Origin of Symmetry [Enhanced]
  8. Page Avenue [Enhanced] [Explicit Lyrics]
  9. Permanent Waves [Original recording remastered]
  10. Pretty In Black

Rap Music

rap music

Recommended Music:

Grand Hotel [Import]

Pictured Air: Contemporary Quartets

Separate Reality

Music: Contrebasse Oblige

Shadow Zone [Import]

Rapmasters: From Tha Priority Vaults, Vol. 2

People Get Ready

Picture Music/Body Love [Import] [Original recording remastered]

Nolan Bruce Allen - New York's King Of Western Swing Music Salutes The Bob Wills Era Vol II

Primi Cruz

Playing the Angel

Phantom Power [Import]

Mixed By Tidy Boys-Guyver & Ian M [Import]

Pray

Award Winner: Stan Getz