Auf Der Maur

Auf Der Maur

Track Listings

1. Lightning is My Girl
2. Followed the Waves
3. Real a Lie
4. Head Unbound
5. Taste You
6. Beast of Honor
7. I'll Be Anything You Want
8. My Foggy Notion
9. Would If I Could
10. Overpower Thee
11. Skin Receiver
12. I Need I Want I Will

Editorial Reviews

Amazon.com
Melissa Auf der Maur has the best rolodex in rock: She played bass for both Hole and the Smashing Pumpkins; went to school with Rufus Wainwright; and purportedly counts Foo Fighters' Dave Grohl, Queens of the Stone Age's Josh Homme and Andrew W.K. among her romantic conquests. Her own record better be good. While Auf Der Maur's self-titled debut doesn't sound anything like either her friends or former employers, it's clear she's picked up a few tricks. Standout tracks "Followed the Waves" and "Real a Lie" storm out of the speakers with shameless arena rock bluster and volcanic urgency. Her lyrics stink (think witches and black light unicorn posters) but she compensates with the sort of million-decibel pterodactyl shriek that makes it hard to notice. And when she tries her hand at a bit of '80s-inspired noise pop with "Would If I Could" the results near My Bloody Valentine envelope pushing brilliance. She was obviously born to do this. --Aidin Vaziri

Auf Der Maur,Auf Der Maur,Capitol,Pop,Rock,Rock/Pop


Auf Der Maur

Zeitgeist (Limited Edition Purple Cover + 1 Bonus Track)
Average customer rating: 3 out of 5 stars
  • It's over.
Zeitgeist (Limited Edition Purple Cover + 1 Bonus Track)

Manufacturer: Martha's Music
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

GeneralGeneral | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music
Similar Items:
  1. Tarantula
  2. Zeitgeist (W/Book) (Spec)
  3. Zeitgeist (Limited Edition Brown Cover + 1 Bonus Track)
  4. Zeitgeist

ASIN: B000TG55J6

Product Description

Exclusive Edition includes Bonus Track "Zeitgeist and Limited Purple Cover. (1) Doomsday Clock, (2) 7 Shades of Black, (3) Bleeding the Orchid (4) That¹s the Way My Love Is, (5) Tarantula, (6) Starz, (7) United States, (8) Neverlost, (9) Bring The Light, (10) Come on Let¹s Go, (11) For God and Country, (12) Pomp And Circumstances BONUS TRACK: (13) Zeitgeist (13) Pomp and Circumstances

Customer Reviews:

3 out of 5 stars It's over........2007-07-25

The Pumpkins elderly Zeitgeist just ain't all that, and in my not-so-humble opinion, here's why I think so:

On Billy:

I'll say that there are chords that only Billy Corgan knows how to play. The ethereal beauty of his wild soloing has always struck me, and he is, I think, a pureblood wild child of guitar, divinely blessed, at times revolutionary. And insurrection is what Billy demands with song titles like the ball-fisted "United States" and the faithfully inspired "Bring the Light." But what's posing as aggression on Zeitgeist is merely an over-admission of free-flying distortion. The more effective rock n' roll snarling of the Pumpkin's debut Gish comes with fast, muted machinegun strumming and tripped-out solos around brazen sonic changes. And on Siamese Dream, Billy's guitar crunches and grinds with a more focused, upfront attack. On Zeitgeist, there is a welcomed return to inspired soloing, but these segments are often stunted by generally restrictive structures, and distortion disseminates and thins out like feathers being sucked into a fan on the ceiling of a barren warehouse. All being said, the brief, searing solo of "Bring the Light" is one of the greatest, artful and perfect moments to have ever occurred in rock. In regards to Billy's vocals, I've thought it was a mistake, since Mellon Collie, not to adorn his voice with phasers, ala Siamese Dream days, to give depth and a cosmic layer to his undeniably trebly tenor. The Queen-esque multiple layering of Billy's vocals on Zeitgeist is interesting, but overall his voice comes off weak, and overbearingly dry and thin.

On Jimmy:

While his signature style continues to relay off an explosive, papery snare drum, celestially sparkling crashes, sizzling chinas and a fast, airy ride cymbal, Jimmy's just no longer an innovative drummer, and really hasn't been since Machina. It's the same formula, over and over, song after song. He submits compulsively to whipping the hi-hat to add a jazzy punch and hardly ever varies from his four-four clicking of the hats in keeping time; the hats are hardly used at all except for riding, snapping and as a clapping metronome. Furthermore, he never rides his hats with moderation, only using them for rattling or tight-clamped tapping. On the same note, Jimmy's violent, marching pounding of crashes on "Starz" is emotional and bold and has an imminent effect, but there are segments throughout the album of Billy's driving, cutting strumming that could have possibly been more powerfully layered with a sharp, aggressive and perpetual waving of cymbals (such as on "That's the Way (My Love Is)), instead of his typically frequent, focused attacking. Jimmy's tribal skills and athletic endurance on "United States" is reverential, but overall the song itself doesn't afford him the opportunity to really jump off into the stratosphere in the way "Silverf*ck" allowed.

In the end, I would never trade my ongoing love affairs with Gish, Siamese Dream, Pisces Iscariot and Mellon Collie for all the riches in the world, but the days of the Pumpkins are long gone.
Auf der Maur
Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
  • Man, this is bad...
  • Damn cool
  • Killer, Sexy Rock with a Dark, Gothic Tinge (+ a defense of the lyrics)
  • Stands out for certain good and bad reasons...
  • Good Job!
Auf der Maur
Auf der Maur
Manufacturer: Capitol
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

GeneralGeneral | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Rock | Styles | Music
Pop RockPop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music
Similar Items:
  1. America's Sweetheart
  2. TheFutureEmbrace
  3. Ask for It
  4. Celebrity Skin
  5. Let It Come Down

ASIN: B00022XOB8
Release Date: 2004-06-01

Tracks:

  1. Lightning is My Girl
  2. Followed the Waves
  3. Real a Lie
  4. Head Unbound
  5. Taste You
  6. Beast of Honor
  7. I'll Be Anything You Want
  8. My Foggy Notion
  9. Would If I Could
  10. Overpower Thee
  11. Skin Receiver
  12. I Need I Want I Will

Amazon.com

Melissa Auf der Maur has the best rolodex in rock: She played bass for both Hole and the Smashing Pumpkins; went to school with Rufus Wainwright; and purportedly counts Foo Fighters' Dave Grohl, Queens of the Stone Age's Josh Homme and Andrew W.K. among her romantic conquests. Her own record better be good. While Auf Der Maur's self-titled debut doesn't sound anything like either her friends or former employers, it's clear she's picked up a few tricks. Standout tracks "Followed the Waves" and "Real a Lie" storm out of the speakers with shameless arena rock bluster and volcanic urgency. Her lyrics stink (think witches and black light unicorn posters) but she compensates with the sort of million-decibel pterodactyl shriek that makes it hard to notice. And when she tries her hand at a bit of '80s-inspired noise pop with "Would If I Could" the results near My Bloody Valentine envelope pushing brilliance. She was obviously born to do this. --Aidin Vaziri

Customer Reviews:

2 out of 5 stars Man, this is bad..........2006-12-01

Melissa ADM is certainly talented, but she doesnt come across as anything other than overrated on this bloated, self indulgent, boring shambles of a record. The songwriting is just plain dreadfiul, amateurish stuff. Her singing is pretty bad too. Hopefully, she'll keep playing with other more established musicians, and learn some more. this was a record I bought because I wondered why it stiffed so badly; but after listening to it a few times, it's pretty obvious why no one bought this album - it's really bad.

4 out of 5 stars Damn cool.......2006-11-27

Alot of reviews for this album seemed to complain that this album was "to 90s'. I thought that was part of the charm of it. Fun songs, good energy, and a strong presence. I also highly recommend seeing her live.
According to amazon this album is now .99 cents used, you have no reason not to check it out.

5 out of 5 stars Killer, Sexy Rock with a Dark, Gothic Tinge (+ a defense of the lyrics).......2006-08-05

Melissa Auf der Maur rocks! And I don't think it's fair the way her lyrics have been dissed on this forum. I love good rock lyrics as much as anyone and I love music that compliments and enhances the lyrics. But c'mon, it's only rock n' roll! There's a lot of great music out there without much in the lyric department, and if the words don't do anything for me, chances are I can just ignore them and rock out. But I actually like a lot of Auf der Maur's lyrics on this her debut album, and I think some of these reviewers here who say her lyrics are weak are being a bit too harsh. For example, the reviewer dissing the lines (from "Beast of Honor") "Take one look at your cook / Feed yourself I'm on a hook" probably doesn't know this is a drug song and a "cook" is a homemade batch of speed ("such a weak feeder . . . I'm on a hook / smell that cook!").

A very cool album with lots of great guest musicians. I'll rate it 5 stars because the best songs elevate the rating and it's that worthy of purchase.

Breakdown! - my impressions:

"Lightning Is My Girl" - an electrifying opener. Despite some limitations, Melissa is a confident singer, using occasional cracks in her voice to her advantage -I dig her voice! Jeordie White (A Perfect Circle, also formerly Twiggy Ramirez of Marilyn Manson) plays guitar on this one. Auf der Maur plays both bass and guitar as she does on most of these tracks. ****1/2

"Followed The Waves" - a thick, dark, heavy atmosphere pervades on this one, probably the best track. "He's just a drunk and gambling man . . . I'm gonna shuffle his deck clean" - Josh Homme of Queens of the Stone Age plays guitar on this track as well as a number of others. He co-writes some songs too. *****

"Real A Lie" - another cool rocker. ****

"Head Unbound" - a less heavy rocker, and Melissa adds some keyboard. James Iha (Smashing Pumpkins) guests, employing an ebow on his guitar (check Wikipedia if you want to learn more about this device). Good song. ****

"Taste You" - "Head Unbound" segues immediately into "Taste You," a sexy rocker. It's a good song, but I think it could've used a bit more uummmph to push it over the edge. Mark Lanegan adds some trademark deadpan background vocals. ****

"Beast Of Honor" - More heavy rock with a distinct Gothic feel to it. Opens with the line "I'm a taste test / At the beast fest / Got your crest on my breast" which sounds really cool in my book. Has some great rhythmic changes. ****1/2

"I'll Be Anything You Want" - this one's kinda quirky - charming and cute in places, although the chorus kicks it in harder. It's not really my thing, and I can see how some people might call the lyrics lame on this one, but maybe they're missing the point. Just a question of taste, really. ***

"My Foggy Notion" - not the most instantly likable song here, but it's very good and it grew on me. Great sinister vibe and weird guitar effects in there. ****

"Would If I Could" - the sound of dripping water is heard at the beginning which sets the tempo. A softer song that's closer to dream-pop than hard rock - but it does rock, especially at the chorus with its tricky rhythm. I didn't like it at first because its such a down shift from the heavy songs, but now I love it. ****1/2

"Overpower Thee" - a spare piano ballad with an evil message - "I could easily overpower you." ****1/2

"Skin Receiver" - opening with the baying of a horse, this track cops the galloping chug of Heart's "Barracuda," but it's much more than that - cool changes, lots of trippy guitar. More familiar musicians on board for this one including James Iha again on guitar. ****1/2

"I Need I Want I Will" - very cool and very heavy song, steady and commanding. Josh Homme co-writes with Auf der Maur and his influence is palpable. Possibly the best song. *****

bonus track - I believe this extra track, which is "Taste You" with Melissa singing in French, is actually available on all versions of the album, so you should get it even if you go with the cheapest price available. Her accent isn't bad, actually (I once lived in France for a year so I have some idea about that) - this version is way cool!

4 out of 5 stars Stands out for certain good and bad reasons..........2006-06-17

What's good: The melodies are interesting! Her guitar work is very impressive, you definitely notice her superior skill on that, and it seems she is a talented writer as far as the song arrangements go.

What's bad: Her lyrics are not horrible, but far below expectations... after hearing Courtney Love, whose lyrics are pure poetry, Auf Der Maur's are a bit embarrassing. I wish they weren't because they distract from the otherwise great songwriting.
And I hate to continuously compare her to Courtney, but while Melissa's voice is clearer and naturally more in tune than Courtney's, it is less provacative and interesting.

Such that Courtney's first solo effort did not show her talent, I believe that Auf Der Maur can make a much better record than this. I think that when you think about the album, Courtney just spit out America's Sweetheart, not trying hard enough, and Melissa Auf Der Maur tried too hard. It's like she thought so much about making her lyrics enchanting that they make her record seem really juvenile. However, I do not consider her to be a mediocre artist, and I am looking forward to the next album.

This is not a bad cd by any means, however because I knew of her impressive history I expected a bit more. Her potential really shines in Followed the Waves. I encourage you to get this CD if you love music enough to accept the problems I have listed above to hear the good stuff as well.

5 out of 5 stars Good Job!.......2006-04-25

First I sampled "followed the wave" and fell in love with her. Then I found out that she has been playing with some of most famous rock bands.
No wonder.
She has a solid "rock" talent. Very Straight Forward Rocking sound.
Auf der Maur
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • Exhilarating, Sexy Rock with a Dark, Gothic Tinge
  • i cant believe theirs only 2 reviews.
  • Lightning is my girl
  • MadM The Rock Goddess
  • Auf Der Maur is outstanding!
Auf der Maur
Auf der Maur
Manufacturer: EMI
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

GeneralGeneral | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Rock | Styles | Music
Pop RockPop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music
RockRock | Imports | Stores | Music
ASIN: B00018889G
Release Date: 2004-02-17

Tracks:

  1. Lightning Is My Girl
  2. Followed the Waves
  3. Real a Lie
  4. Head Unbound
  5. Taste You
  6. Beast of Honor
  7. I'll Be Anything You Want
  8. My Foggy Notion
  9. Would If I Could
  10. Overpower Thee
  11. Skin Receiver
  12. I Need I Want I Will

Album Description

French edition of the ex-Hole/Smashing Pumpkins bassist's 2004 solo album debut features 12 tracks including 1 track sung in French, 'Taste You'. The album was produced by the Queens of the Stone Age producer, Chris Goss & features collaborations with Josh Homme (QOTSA), Brandt Bjork (Kyuss), James Iha (Smashing Pumpkins), & Eric Erlandson (Hole). Copy Controlled. Labels/Capitol.

Album Details

The French Edition of the Former Hole Drummer's Solo Debut Album Includes a Bonus Track Sung in French. Produced by Chris Goss (Kyuss, Masters of Reality).

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Exhilarating, Sexy Rock with a Dark, Gothic Tinge.......2006-08-05

Melissa Auf der Maur rocks! And I don't think it's fair the way her lyrics have been dissed on this forum. I love good rock lyrics as much as anyone and I love music that compliments and enhances the lyrics. But c'mon, it's only rock n' roll! There's a lot of great music out there without much in the lyric department, and if the words don't do anything for me, chances are I can just ignore them and rock out. But I actually like a lot of Auf der Maur's lyrics on this her debut album, and I think some of these reviewers here who say her lyrics are weak are being a bit too harsh. For example, the reviewer dissing the lines (from "Beast of Honor") "Take one look at your cook / Feed yourself I'm on a hook" probably doesn't know this is a drug song and a "cook" is a homemade batch of speed ("such a weak feeder . . . I'm on a hook / smell that cook!").

A very cool album with lots of great guest musicians. I'll rate it 5 stars because the best songs elevate the rating and it's that worthy of purchase.

Breakdown! - my impressions:

"Lightning Is My Girl" - an electrifying opener. Despite some limitations, Melissa is a confident singer, using occasional cracks in her voice to her advantage -I dig her voice! Jeordie White (A Perfect Circle, also formerly Twiggy Ramirez of Marilyn Manson) plays guitar on this one. Auf der Maur plays both bass and guitar as she does on most of these tracks. ****1/2

"Followed The Waves" - a thick, dark, heavy atmosphere pervades on this one, probably the best track. "He's just a drunk and gambling man . . . I'm gonna shuffle his deck clean" - Josh Homme of Queens of the Stone Age plays guitar on this track as well as a number of others. He co-writes some songs too. *****

"Real A Lie" - another cool rocker. ****

"Head Unbound" - a less heavy rocker, and Melissa adds some keyboard. James Iha (Smashing Pumpkins) guests, employing an ebow on his guitar (check Wikipedia if you want to learn more about this device). Good song. ****

"Taste You" - "Head Unbound" segues immediately into "Taste You," a sexy rocker. It's a good song, but I think it could've used a bit more uummmph to push it over the edge. Mark Lanegan adds some trademark deadpan background vocals. ****

"Beast Of Honor" - More heavy rock with a distinct Gothic feel to it. Opens with the line "I'm a taste test / At the beast fest / Got your crest on my breast" which sounds really cool in my book. Has some great rhythmic changes. ****1/2

"I'll Be Anything You Want" - this one's kinda quirky - charming and cute in places, although the chorus kicks it in harder. It's not really my thing, and I can see how some people might call the lyrics lame on this one, but maybe they're missing the point. Just a question of taste, really. ***

"My Foggy Notion" - not the most instantly likable song here, but it's very good and it grew on me. Great sinister vibe and weird guitar effects in there. ****

"Would If I Could" - the sound of dripping water is heard at the beginning which sets the tempo. A softer song that's closer to dream-pop than hard rock - but it does rock, especially at the chorus with its tricky rhythm. I didn't like it at first because its such a down shift from the heavy songs, but now I love it. ****1/2

"Overpower Thee" - a spare piano ballad with an evil message - "I could easily overpower you." ****1/2

"Skin Receiver" - opening with the baying of a horse, this track cops the galloping chug of Heart's "Barracuda," but it's much more than that - cool changes, lots of trippy guitar. More familiar musicians on board for this one including James Iha again on guitar. ****1/2

"I Need I Want I Will" - very cool and very heavy song, steady and commanding. Josh Homme co-writes with Auf der Maur and his influence is palpable. Possibly the best song. *****

bonus track - I believe this extra track, which is "Taste You" with Melissa singing in French, is actually available on all versions of the album, so you should get it even if you go with the cheapest price available. Her accent isn't bad, actually (I once lived in France for a year so I have some idea about that) - this version is way cool!

5 out of 5 stars i cant believe theirs only 2 reviews........2005-09-05

well i came to check the reviews and their only 2! i goind that insane since this is such and amazing and musical album. her love of music is shown throughtout. very melodic and.. well just plain awesome. she's a true rock star!
i suggest you buy bthis album is your sick of all muchmusic rock.

4 out of 5 stars Lightning is my girl.......2004-09-07

In the modern music scene, too often female pop singers are relabelled "rock," no matter how light their sound. Here's the real thing: Melissa Auf Der Maur -- formerly of the Smashing Pumpkins and Hole -- debuts with a blast in "Auf Der Maur," pushing aside pop-rockers with her robust, bass-heavy sound.

It opens with a bang in the swoopy, searing, catchy "Lightning is My Girl," which adds a rather confusing spoken interlude before the sweeping buildup of "Followed the Waves." From there on, she gets into the cycling hard rocker "Real A Lie," the softer "Taste You," the bass-heaving roaring "Beast of Honor," and the playful rocker "I'll Be Anything You Want." It rounds off with the sprawling "I Need I Want I Will," which starts on an ominous gothic note, before falling into silence, and blossoming again.

Listening to this album, it's not hard to see why Melissa Auf Der Maur was in the Smashing Pumpkins -- she has the heavy, roaring complexity that many other rockers could benefit from. There's an air of confidence around "Auf De Maur," which seems to come from Auf Der Maur's extensive experience, and her undeniable talent as a bassist and singer.

Auf Der Maur has a solid voice that rises above her music. Don't expect her to do any vocal gymnastics, but her vocals are assured and confident, as if she's fully in tune with her music. Her songwriting needs lots of work ("Take one look at your cook/Feed yourself, I'm on a hook"), but it has some raw promise ("I'll see you in my dreams/Electrified and cherry red") and very evocative imagery.

She was also the bassist in both the Smashing Pumpkins and Hole, so needless to say she plays a mean bass on her own album -- complex, dark, heavy, and sinuously flexible. Her old bandmate James Iha and Queens of the Stone Age's Josh Homme offer their own talents, with Homme cowriting and playing solid guitar, and Iha offering his talents to the solid "Head Unbound."

Melissa Auf Der Maur's debut shows the polish of many years in other people's bands, but she's strong on her own two feet, in her own unique sound. An imperfect but solid debut, and one that promises good things yet to come.

5 out of 5 stars MadM The Rock Goddess.......2004-05-14

The thing I like the most about AUF DER MAUR is how hard rocking it is...yet how feminine and beautiful Melissa's voice is. It sounds nothing like anything out there today. She talks about music like it is her true love...and it shows on her album. You can feel how much she loves music. Melissa's album is a beautiful, hard, raw, powerful, dreamy masterpiece. Melissa has balls. She's going to take over rock

5 out of 5 stars Auf Der Maur is outstanding!.......2004-04-29

This CD is a must have for any fan of hole/smashing pumpkins.
I bought it after hearing "Followed the Waves".

Followed the Waves is in my opinion the most "rocking" song on the CD. The other songs are more melodic and a definate must hear!!!

Keep it the music coming !!!
Auf der Maur
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • Lightning is my girl
  • Refreshing
  • Superbly Forging Her Own Path to Stardom
  • Forging Her Own Path to Stardom
  • Auf Der Maur worth waiting
Auf der Maur
Auf der Maur
Manufacturer: EMI Int'l
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

GeneralGeneral | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Rock | Styles | Music
Pop RockPop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music
RockRock | Imports | Stores | Music
ASIN: B000174LWK
Release Date: 2006-05-15

Tracks:

  1. Lightning Is My Girl
  2. Followed the Waves
  3. Real a Lie
  4. Head Unbound
  5. Taste You
  6. Beast of Honor
  7. I'll Be Anything You Want
  8. My Foggy Notion
  9. Would If I Could
  10. Overpower Thee
  11. Skin Receiver
  12. I Need I Want I Will

Album Description

International edition of the ex-Hole/Smashing Pumpkins bassist's 2004 solo album debut. The album was produced by Chris Goss (Queens of the Stone Age), and features 12 tracks including collaborations with Josh Homme (QOTSA), Brandt Bjork (Kyuss) along with James Iha formerly of the Smashing Pumpkins, and Eric Erlandson formerly of Hole. Copy Controlled. EMI. 2004.

Album Details

The Debut Album of the Group that Takes It's Name from Former Hole/Smashing Pumpkins Bass Player Melissa Auf Der Maur, their Frontperson. Co-produced by Melissa Auf Der Maur and Chris Goss, the Album features Guest Musicians Atom Willard (Rocket from the Crypt), Brandt Bjork (Kyuss, Fu Manchu), Chris Goss (Masters of Reality), Eric Erlandson (Hole), James Iha (Smashing Pumpkins, a Perfect Circle), John Stanier (Helmet), Jordan Zadorozny (Bodega), Josh Homme (Queens of the Stone Age), Kelli Scott (Failure), Mark Lanegan (Screaming Trees, Qotsa), Nick Oliveri (Qotsa), Paz Lenchantin (A Perfect Circle, Zwan), Steve Durand (Tinker) and Twiggy Ramirez (A Perfect Circle, Marilyn Manson).

Customer Reviews:

4 out of 5 stars Lightning is my girl.......2004-12-08

In the modern music scene, too often female pop singers are relabelled "rock," no matter how light their sound. Here's the real thing: Melissa Auf Der Maur -- formerly of the Smashing Pumpkins and Hole -- debuts with a blast in "Auf Der Maur," pushing aside pop-rockers with her robust, bass-heavy sound.

It opens with a bang in the swoopy, searing, catchy "Lightning is My Girl," which adds a rather confusing spoken interlude before the sweeping buildup of "Followed the Waves." From there on, she gets into the cycling hard rocker "Real A Lie," the softer "Taste You," the bass-heaving roaring "Beast of Honor," and the playful rocker "I'll Be Anything You Want." It rounds off with the sprawling "I Need I Want I Will," which starts on an ominous gothic note, before falling into silence, and blossoming again.

Listening to this album, it's not hard to see why Melissa Auf Der Maur was in the Smashing Pumpkins -- she has the heavy, roaring complexity that many other rockers could benefit from. There's an air of confidence around "Auf De Maur," which seems to come from Auf Der Maur's extensive experience, and her undeniable talent as a bassist and singer.

Auf Der Maur has a solid voice that rises above her music. Don't expect her to do any vocal gymnastics, but her vocals are assured and confident, as if she's fully in tune with her music. Her songwriting needs lots of work ("Take one look at your cook/Feed yourself, I'm on a hook"), but it has some raw promise ("I'll see you in my dreams/Electrified and cherry red") and very evocative imagery.

She was also the bassist in both the Smashing Pumpkins and Hole, so needless to say she plays a mean bass on her own album -- complex, dark, heavy, and sinuously flexible. Her old bandmate James Iha and Queens of the Stone Age's Josh Homme offer their own talents, with Homme cowriting and playing solid guitar, and Iha offering his talents to the solid "Head Unbound."

Melissa Auf Der Maur's debut shows the polish of many years in other people's bands, but she's strong on her own two feet, in her own unique sound. An imperfect but solid debut, and one that promises good things yet to come.

4 out of 5 stars Refreshing.......2004-08-01

Melissa Auf der Maur guides us through the dark mysteries of love on her debut album "Auf der Maur". The songs have drive, and interesting melodies which are very refreshing. The lyrics are good, but sometimes very obscured. Melissa mixes between rock/pop and hard rock. Her passion for music shines through, and I have great respect for her making an album without having a big company breathing down her neck and telling her what music is supposed to sound like. "Overpower thee" should never have been on the album with its simple melody and poor lyrics, but all in all this is a very good debut album from a promising artist. Buy the album, and let the songs grow on you before you decide whether you like it or not :)

5 out of 5 stars Superbly Forging Her Own Path to Stardom.......2004-06-14

Melissa Auf der Maur has filled the roles of bass player/backup vocalist for the likes of Hole and Smashing Pumpkins and as backup vocalist for Ric Ocasek (Troublizing) in the past. 2004 now sees her stepping into the spotlight with her own music. Apparently the apprenticeship in these other bands has enabled her to hone her skills as a bass player and come out with some very original and very rocking music of her own. Courtney Love should feel ever grateful that she had this talented musician an artist in her band for a few years. Melissa knows now how to create her own brand of alt-rock and also knows how NOT to do things, thanks to watching Love self-destruct several times a year.

In my opinion, there really isn't a dud on this whole album. The tracks run the gamut from radio friendly pop/rock "Would if I Could", "Taste You" to driving rock "Real A Lie", to the best alt-rock I've ever come across "Followed the Waves", "Head Unbound", "Lightning is My Girl", "Beast of Honor", "Skin Receiver". I'll admit that lyrically, I don't often get what she's saying, but the words SOUND really cool in her delivery and the obvious feeling she puts behind her lyrics.

Sonically, the album can be best described as BIG. Big sound, big rock, big fun. This CD carves its own niche, and when you listen to it, it's almost as if you're listening not so much to a bunch of songs as you are listening to an event. And that event you're hearing is the sound of Melissa Auf der Maur sneaking up on the music landscape and placing herself squarely ahead of others like Courtney Love who can only boast popularity through means other than her music.

Melissa wrote almost all the songs on the album and called up her good friends in bands like Queens of the Stone Age, Kyuss, Tinker and Hole to help her out in the studio and add their bit of musicianship. It's nice to have so many friends willing to help out someone who's obviously very well-respected in her own right.

Not only should Auf der Maur be listened to for the driving, bombastic, ethereal piece of artistic rock that it is, but we should all support an artist who made this album by paying for it with her own money even before having a label to distribute it. Now THAT's someone who's in rock music for the right reasons, and obviously someone who is going to give her all to put out a great album. You haven't heard rock quite like this in a long time. You can hear Melissa's heart and soul in every track. Trust all these great reviews you're seeing here, you won't be disappointed!

5 out of 5 stars Forging Her Own Path to Stardom.......2004-06-13

Melissa Auf der Maur has filled the roles of bass player/backup vocalist for the likes of Hole and Smashing Pumpkins and as backup vocalist for Ric Ocasek (Troublizing) in the past. 2004 now sees her stepping into the spotlight with her own music. Apparently the apprenticeship in these other bands has enabled her to hone her skills as a bass player and come out with some very original and very rocking music of her own. Courtney Love should feel ever grateful that she had this talented musician an artist in her band for a few years. Melissa knows now how to create her own brand of alt-rock and also knows how NOT to do things, thanks to watching Love self-destruct several times a year.

In my opinion, there really isn't a dud on this whole album. The tracks run the gamut from radio friendly pop/rock "Would if I Could", "Taste You" to driving rock "Real A Lie", to the best alt-rock I've ever come across "Followed the Waves", "Head Unbound", "Lightning is My Girl", "Beast of Honor", "Skin Receiver". I'll admit that lyrically, I don't often get what she's saying, but it SOUNDS really cool, if that makes any sense? Skin Reciever is a good example of this - you'll see what I mean when you buy this excellent CD!

Melissa wrote almost all the songs on the album and called up her good friends in bands like Queens of the Stone Age, Kyuss, Tinker and Hole to help her out in the studio and add their bit of musicianship. It's nice to have so many friends willing to help out someone who's obviously very well-respected in her own right.

Not only should Auf der Maur be listened to for the driving, bombastic, ethereal piece of artistic rock that it is, but we should all support an artist who made this album by paying for it with her own money even before having a label to distribute it. Now THAT's someone who's in rock music for the right reasons, and obviously someone who is going to give her all to put out a great album. You haven't heard rock quite like this in a long time. You can hear Melissa's heart and soul in every track. Trust all these great reviews you're seeing here, you won't be disappointed!

5 out of 5 stars Auf Der Maur worth waiting.......2004-06-11

This new album rocks.Made by bass guitarist who has played with the likes of hole and the Smashing Pumpkins,Melissa Auf Der Maur has pleased her fans by using personal experiences linked in with artistic moves and unforgettable riffs that will leave you feeling bewildered and fascinated.
Followed the Waves
Average customer rating: Not rated
    Followed the Waves
    Auf der Maur
    Manufacturer: EMI
    ProductGroup: Music
    Binding: Audio CD

    GeneralGeneral | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music
    GeneralGeneral | Rock | Styles | Music
    Pop RockPop Rock | CD Singles | Pop | Styles | Music
    ASIN: B0001F6KKS
    Release Date: 2004-02-16

    Tracks:

    1. Followed the Waves
    2. Good News [#]
    Live in Los Angeles
    Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
    • Just another sabbath tribute in my book, I just don't think its that spectacular
    • Melissa ROCKS!!! Does Ozzy better than Ozzy!!!
    • Good performances, but too much of a carbon copy.
    • Melissa Auf der Maur Rules!
    • Awesome
    Live in Los Angeles
    Hand of Doom
    Manufacturer: Idaho Music
    ProductGroup: Music
    Binding: Audio CD

    GeneralGeneral | Rock | Styles | Music
    GeneralGeneral | Live Albums | Rock | Styles | Music
    GeneralGeneral | Hard Rock & Metal | Styles | Music
    Pop RockPop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music
    MetalMetal | Hard Rock & Metal | Rock | Indie Music | Stores | Music
    Similar Items:
    1. Auf der Maur
    2. Era Vulgaris
    3. United Abominations
    4. Libertad
    5. WKRP in Cincinnati - The Complete First Season

    ASIN: B00006FSUI
    Release Date: 2002-09-03

    Album Description

    Perhaps the most high-powered tribute band in the history of rock, Hand of Doom is the supergroup side project of Melissa Auf Der Maur (Auf De Maur, Hole, Smashing Pumpkins). Formed in homage to the mighty Black Sabbath, Hand of Doom (which features Auf Der Maur doing her first real turn on lead vocals) recorded their debut live on LA's Sunset Strip during now-legendary shows at the Whisky, Troubadour and Spaceland.

    Hand of Doom gives their own high-energy spin to such Sabbath milestones as "Paranoid" and "War Pigs," while adding contemporary touches like turntables, a DJ and - in the role of Ronnie James Dio - guest lead vocals by Nick Oliveri of Queens of the Stone Age!

    Customer Reviews:

    3 out of 5 stars Just another sabbath tribute in my book, I just don't think its that spectacular.......2006-10-20

    I myst be in the minority on this CD, but I did not think it was anything special. I picked it up about 4 years ago when it came out, seeing Jack osbourne's comments on the cover thinking, hey, it's cheep and it might be good. Well, it's ok, but nothing to write home about. Yes, It's unique in the fact that a female, Mellisa Auf der Mauer does the vocals, which is cool, but I don't think its anything spectacular. I think the mastering makes it sound a bit rough, but otherwise, their unique vocals, and definitely are not Ozzy or anything close. The band sounds like it lacks something as well, I Think it may be the heaviness of the bass or the distortion on guitar is less, or maybe lighter strings, but it just didn't carry the heaviness that strikes me as sabbath, again, that could be the mastering as well. Prior reviewer's seem to give this group more credit in their tribute music than Toni Iommi for writing it, and the subsequent groups that Were labeled "black sabbath" after ozzy left. The live albums they put out with Dio and Tony Martin on vocals were as good as this and just a intense, but had the backing of Toni Iommi. I wouldn't go out of my way to purchace this CD, but the used price is nice here on Amazon, and it is a better tribute than many of the others. So if you collect tributes, this may be one for you.

    5 out of 5 stars Melissa ROCKS!!! Does Ozzy better than Ozzy!!!.......2004-11-08

    I am not a huge fan of Black Sabbath by any stretch, but I am a huge fan of good metal done well. Melissa and company completely deliver, and I am impressed how these songs are made "fresh" after hearing the "tired" sounding original versions by Ozzy & co. I think that Melissa's performance alone makes this cd worth while, even though the band's performance is definately up to par. She keeps the Ozzy "schtik" up throughout, and it makes for an interesting listen. The set list granted is not very adventurous (I personally miss "Sweet Leaf" and "Sabbra Cadabbra"), but the only sub-standard moment is "The Mob Rules" towards the end, the one song where Melissa is nowhere to be found. Yes, I am a big fan of Melissa Auf Der Maur's work (Hole, live Smashing Pumpkins, and solo cd), this is absolutely no low point of hopefully a very long career! Cheers and "flash the metal" proudly while playing this cd loud!!!

    3 out of 5 stars Good performances, but too much of a carbon copy........2004-05-01

    The recording is good, the instrumental players are skilled, and Melissa Auf der Maur's vocal performance contains enough attitude to compensate for its shaky pitch and lack of range.

    So what's the problem? Like so many others (even the ever-inventive Faith No More) who have covered Black Sabbath songs, Hand of Doom has stayed entirely too true to the original arrangements and sounds. Black Sabbath is the kind of band that holds a mystical power over its acolytes and it's not surprising that musicians who love the band have a preconceived notion of how these songs should sound. But the tracks on Hand of Doom, though I enjoyed them, sound so close to the originals that I wondered why I didn't just put on the original band. Auf der Maur's female vocals make them minutely different, but I definitely wish Hand of Doom would have been more inventive and done different things with these iconic songs.

    And another thing: Do we need to hear yet more renditions of "War Pigs", "Iron Man" and "Paranoid", three of the most legendary (and therefore most tired) songs in the metal canon? The track selection on this EP shows a lack of adventurousness, something Black Sabbath never lost sight of. I would have loved to hear less obvious cover choices such as "Megalomania", "Killing Yourself to Live", "Am I Going Insane (Radio)", "Supernaut", "Zero the Hero", "Trashed", "The Wizard", and "Cornucopia". Instead, we get the three staples from the Paranoid album, songs I wouldn't mind never hearing covered ever again.

    Hand of Doom is not bad as music; it's just at a loss for something to say. Hearing a completely faithful cover band may be enjoyable as a live experience, but a record demands more. Why perform and record songs in exactly the same way as they've been done, and done quite well, 30 years ago? I'd definitely recommend Melissa Auf der Maur's idiosyncratic solo record in lieu of Hand of Doom.

    5 out of 5 stars Melissa Auf der Maur Rules!.......2004-02-17

    The band sounds so much like original Sabbath it's scarey (the bulk of the material is from the Paranoid album); they've got the chops down to a tee. Just way too cool. Add the sexy scowl of Melissa Auf der Maur and you have a near masterpiece. Her vocals on top of this killer band can not be described by mere words. This is a must have for ANY Sabbath or metal fan.

    5 out of 5 stars Awesome.......2002-09-29

    This is harcore stuff. Awesome vocals and extreme guitar playing. This CD is better than Sabbath's original stuff! This band is for real!
    Taste You
    Average customer rating: Not rated
      Taste You
      Auf Der Maur
      ProductGroup: Music
      Binding: Audio CD
      ASIN: B000QCDNQ0

      Product Description

      3 song single cd, holland import (1) Taste You (2) Sergant Politness (3) You Could Ice Skate to This
      Taste You
      Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
      • Yet another excellent single from Melissa
      Taste You
      Auf der Maur
      Manufacturer: EMI Int'l
      ProductGroup: Music
      Binding: Audio CD

      GeneralGeneral | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music
      CanadaCanada | North America | International | Styles | Music
      GeneralGeneral | Rock | Styles | Music
      Pop RockPop Rock | CD Singles | Pop | Styles | Music
      RockRock | Imports | Stores | Music
      ASIN: B0002Y2FDO
      Release Date: 2004-12-28

      Tracks:

      1. Taste You
      2. Sergeant Politeness

      Album Description

      Taken from the 2004 album 'Auf Der Maur'. The title track is b/w two non-LP tracks, 'Sergeant Politeness' (Live) & 'You Could Ice Skate To This'. EMI UK.

      Album Details

      The Third Single from the Critically Acclaimed, Self Titled Debut Album. Another Classic Slice of Darkly Melodic Rock with Exclusive Bonus Tracks.

      Customer Reviews:

      5 out of 5 stars Yet another excellent single from Melissa.......2004-12-10

      "Taste You," Melissa Auf der Maur's third single from her self-titled album, is easily just as good as the previous 2 singles. Although this one does not contain an enhanced section with videos, it offers 2 b-sides instead of only 1. The first, "Sargeant Politeness," is a Failure cover recorded live at The Troubadour in Los Angeles. This is the gem of this single. GREAT song with superb sound quality. Melissa & Co. do a fantastic job covering it. The second b-side, "You Could Ice Skate To This," takes a 180-degree turn and mellows things down using only acoustic guitars (the song title hints at this anyway so it's no surprise). A great song as well, nice to chill out to.

      If you own the "Followed The Waves" and "Real A Lie" singles, you will not be disappointed with this one. If you don't own those 2, buy them NOW in addition to this one. Melissa Auf der Maur is one of those rare artists whose singles are just as good as the full-lenght album.
      That's Why
      Average customer rating: Not rated
        That's Why
        Charles Law & Jagged
        Manufacturer: AFIRM Records
        ProductGroup: Music
        Binding: Audio CD

        Pop RockPop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music
        GeneralGeneral | Dance Pop | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music
        ASIN: B000CADSI4
        Release Date: 2002-08-27

        Tracks:

        1. That's Why
        2. Sharing & Giving
        3. Forgotten Days
        4. Fall on Me
        5. Gone
        6. Let's Roll
        7. Comes to a Close
        THMR 0408 ROCK Karaoke CDG AUGUST 2004 Multiplex CD
        Average customer rating: Not rated
          THMR 0408 ROCK Karaoke CDG AUGUST 2004 Multiplex CD
          Incubus,New Found Glory,Story Of The Year,Tantric,Auf Der Maur,The Von Bondies,Thornley, Velvet Revolver
          Manufacturer: Panorama Top Hits Monthly
          ProductGroup: Music
          Binding: Audio CD

          KaraokeKaraoke | Miscellaneous | Styles | Music
          ASIN: B000N83KKG

          Product Description

          This listing is for a brand new THMR-0408 (August 2004) Karaoke CD&G CD from the High Quality TOP HITS MONTHLY ROCK collection. This factory manufactured CD plays the music without the lead vocals and displays the lyrics on a Karaoke CD&G player. There are 2 versions of the songs on these CD's. The first 9 tracks are the regular karaoke versions with the lead vocals removed. The next 9 tracks have guide vocals included so you can practice the songs before you try them in public. These songs are not preformed by the original artists but are VERY GOOD re-creations. The songs included are as follows:

          THMR - 0408

          01- Slither- Velvet Revolver- 10

          02- Talk Show On Mute- Incubus- 11

          03- All Downhill From Here- New Found Glory- 12

          04- Take Me Out- Franz Ferdinand- 13

          05- Anthem Of Our Dying Day- Story Of The Year- 14

          06- The Chain- Tantric- 15

          07- Followed The Waves- Auf Der Maur- 16

          08- C'mon C'mon- The Von Bondies- 17

          09- So Far So Good- Thornley- 18

          Rap Music:

          1. Australia: Our Land, Our Music [Import]
          2. Believo
          3. Black Is the Color of My True Love's Hair [EP]
          4. Bliss
          5. Blood on the Wall [Enhanced]
          6. Boogie Brothers [Import]
          7. Breakdown: Limited Edition [Enhanced] [Extra tracks]
          8. Camel [Original recording remastered] [Import]
          9. Camembert Electrique [Import]
          10. Carousel Waltz

          Rap Music

          rap music

          Recommended Music:

          Dream Dance, Vol. 19 [Import]

          Mozart: Die Entführung aus dem Serail / Kodalli · Groves · Rancatore · Rose · Atkinson · Tobias · SCO · Mackerras [2000 film "Mozart in Turkey"] [Soundtrack]

          Paris Jazz Concert [Live]

          Music: Estamos Gozando!

          Pirates

          Modern Day City Symphony

          Much

          No Exit [Extra tracks]

          Mexico

          Les Plus Grandes Toccatas V.100 [Import]

          Musical Genius & Sex Symbol [Import]

          On a Roll

          Lethal Weaponz [Explicit Lyrics]

          Music By Benjamin Britten

          Jane Morgan - Greatest Hits