The Unauthorized Biography Of Reinhold Messner

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

Mojo
A significant development...underneath, it's still the BFF in all their ragged, all-boys-together glory, it's just that bit better.

The Unauthorized Biography Of Reinhold Messner,Ben Folds Five,Sony,Adult Alternative Pop/Rock,Alternative Pop/Rock,Pop,Pop Underground,Popular Music,Rock,Rock/Pop,Singer/Songwriter

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The Unauthorized Biography Of Reinhold Messner

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: The Beauty of Ben Folds Five . . . and an added bonus track

The Unauthorized Biography Of Reinhold Messner (+ Bonus Track) Ben Folds Five Manufacturer: Sony/Epic ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music General | Rock | Alternative Styles | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Singer-Songwriters | Pop | Styles | Music Adult Alternative | Pop | Styles | Music Alternative Rock | Imports | Stores | Music ASIN: B00000JX8X Release Date: 1999-07-23

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 Posession
9. Regrets
10. Jane
11. Lullabye
12. Birds

Album Description

Japanese edition of the trio's 1999 outing featuring earlier availability than the rest of the world & with the bonus track 'Birds' added, for a total of 12 selections. Also contains the single 'Army'.

Album Details

Japanese Version featuring Exclusive Bonus Track 'birds'.

Customer Reviews:

The Beauty of Ben Folds Five . . . and an added bonus track.......2000-08-27

The trio of Ben Folds, Darren Jesse, and Robert Sledge have served as my favorite band for quite some time now. I took notice of them when hearing "Philosophy," a song off of their brillinat first album. Since then I've come to admire the beatiful music and amazing lyrics Ben Folds Five turns out. Their latest release, "The Unauthorized Biography of Reinhold Messner" shows not only the bands talent, but also how much they've come since that first CD. A more polished sound, and even the occasional orchestral accompanyment, stand as proof to how far they've come. More laid-back groove songs like or "Your Most Valuable Posession" allow Ben Folds Five to sound loungey, while epics like "Narcolepsy" and beautiful ballads like "Mess" and "Magic" show that they've not strayed that far. This Import CD also features the B-Side instrumental "Brids." This song is just as moving as any other Ben Folds Five song, even without they lyrics. I own this album because I am a Ben Folds Five fanatic and felt it my duty to own the hard to find "Birds." My reccomendation to anyone not addicted to the band would be to purchase the much cheaper American version of the album. You get the other 11 amazing songs for half as much. "Birds" is an amazing song, but it's not worth $....

Average customer rating: insightful chronicle of a young man's struggle with life

The Unauthorized Biography Of Reinhold Messner Ben Folds Five Manufacturer: Msi/Sony ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Rock | Alternative Styles | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Adult Alternative | Pop | Styles | Music Alternative Rock | Imports | Stores | Music ASIN: B00000IWQ8 Release Date: 1999-04-27

Customer Reviews:

insightful chronicle of a young man's struggle with life.......1999-11-06

i really like this CD. it follows the young man, probably and autobigraphical account of ben fold's earlier years, with passion and insight. complex lyrics and mellow tones add to the indecision and struggle "reinhold" faces as he goes through his later adolescent years. it is slower and softer then their previous works, but holds together with clever words and ben folds five's signature quirky outlook on life.

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: 550 ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music General | Rock | Alternative Styles | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Singer-Songwriters | Pop | Styles | Music Adult Alternative | Pop | Styles | Music Alternative Rock | Imports | Stores | Music Rock | Imports | Stores | Music Similar Items: Ben Folds Five Rockin' the Suburbs Naked Baby Photos Whatever and Ever Amen Whatever and Ever Amen ASIN: B000023Y9O Release Date: 1999-11-16

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:

Unauthorized Biography of Reinhold Messner IMPORT Ben Folds Five ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Pop | Styles | Music General | Rock | Alternative Styles | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music ASIN: B000J4YOZ4

Product Description

Australian Exclusive bonus disc includes Emaline, Stephen's Last Night in Town & Brick, recorded at Triple J Live at the Wireless. Plus 10 min. band interview. 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 Posession 9. Regrets 10. Jane 11. Lullabye BONUS: 12. Theme from Dr. Pyser

Rap Music:

1. The Way It Is
2. Unplugged (The Official Bootleg) [Live] [Import]
3. Wander This World
4. Whatever & Ever Amen
5. Whoa, Nelly!
6. Wicked Game [Import]
7. You Can Play These Songs with Chords
8. 12 Dreams of Dr Sardonicus [Original recording remastered]
9. A White Sport Coat and a Pink Crustacean
10. About Face

Rap Music

rap music

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