Illumination [Limited Edition w/ Bonus DVD]

Amazon.com
While Paul Weller veered from the Mod-obsessed, early-Who-inspired successes of the Jam to further explore the R&B and Motown roots of those influences with Style Council, his solo career has continued down that restless creative path with wildly disparate results. This 2002 collection strives to both showcase that diversity and further focus Weller's voice and songwriting sense to the spare, forceful vehicle that's brought him back to the top of the U.K. charts. There's an echo of the savory rootsiness of Rod Stewart's "Gasoline Alley" on tracks like "Going Places," the title track, and "Now the Night Is Here," but the album's back-to-the-future R&B sense (exemplified by the single "It's Written in the Stars") is often a deceptive tease. Weller's guitar-driven conscience tears into "A Bullet for Everyone" and "Leafy Mysteries" with the abandon of old, and his muse leads him as far a field as the wordless, raga trance of "Spring" and the acoustic folk of "Bag Man." Throughout it all, Weller's pop instincts remain strong, if prickly, as the music-hall-inspired "Push Button" and Mellencamp-esque "Talisman" (two of the album's three bonus U.K. B-sides) well attest. --Jerry McCulley

Illumination [Limited Edition w/ Bonus DVD],Paul Weller,Yep Roc Records,Adult Alternative Pop/Rock,British Trad Rock,Pop,Pop/Rock,Rock,Rock/Pop,Singer/Songwriter

Illumination [Limited Edition w/ Bonus DVD]

Average customer rating:

If you liked Ashes....
A Surprise Album
Departing Destined
Not so good.
One of my favorite ever!

Illumination
Tristania
Manufacturer: Steamhammer Us [Spv]
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music

Goth | Goth & Industrial | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music

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Death Metal | Hard Rock & Metal | Styles | Music

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Nine Destinies and a Downfall
Gothic Kabbalah
World of Glass
The Forgotten Goddess
At Sixes and Sevens

ASIN: B000LXST0O
Release Date: 2007-01-30

Tracks:

Mercyside
Sanguine Sky
Open Ground
The Ravens
Destination Departure
Down
Fate
Lotus
Sacrilege
Ab Initio (bonus track)
Deadlands

Album Description

Since 1996, Norway's Tristania have been brewing up some of the finest Gothic Death Rock on the scene today. In 1997, just a year after the band's formation, Tristania recorded their first demo with sultry vocalist Vibeke Stene. Since then Tristania have gone on to release four successful albums, each cleverly building on the one before. Last year's SPV debut, Ashes, was met with critical acclaim the world over. On Illumination, their fifth and most majestic recording, Tristania have once again worked with famed producer Waldemar Sorychta (Lacuna Coil, The Gathering, Tiamat, Samael etc.) to do what they do best: light the way into a world of music where darkness and beauty meet.

Customer Reviews:

If you liked Ashes...........2007-07-13

It's fair to say that Tristania's sound has become less symphonic and operatic, definitely. I agree with the other reviewers - you may be disappointed here, if that's what you're looking for. That is not to say, however, that "Illumination" is a bad album. Actually, it's quite good. It's dark, heavy, melodic and beautiful. If you were a fan of the direction they took in "Ashes" you will like this.

A Surprise Album.......2007-02-22

In my opinion, I think this current album Illumination sounds great both musically and lyrics. Much of the work sounds very different from their previous albums. One thing I really noticed a lot was there weren't anyone singing with extreme vocals, which in a way is good since sometimes you need to hear more the main vocalists than there guest vocalist. Favorite song out of the album Down and Ab Initio, Vebeke's vocals are really beautiful in those songs.

Departing Destined.......2007-02-19

Like any serious band, Tristania are still trying to advance their sound. Unfortunately, evidence continues to mount that Tristania's glory days are behind them. This album offers more variety and accessibility than the last album, the uneven Ashes, though that album was more intriguing and rocked harder. Here, Tristania have moved away from dark metal and thankfully have mostly dropped the extreme vocals that have always appeared extraneous within their sound. Tristania are now an increasingly mainstream purveyor of goth dirges, which indicates a partially successful advancement in songwriting and playing. Bassist Rune Osterhus and drummer Kenneth Olsson are especially strong on this album, even though the band is mellowing out overall. The songs here that best illustrate development in songwriting, and best exhibit the band's musical talents, include "Open Ground," "The Ravens," and a couple of others. But otherwise, this album runs out of steam pretty quickly, as it is made up primarily of turgid semi-ballads that hold little musical interest. There are also some unpleasant surprises like "Sacrilege," which sounds like overblown 80s arena metal, and "Ab Initio" (a bonus track on my edition of the disc), which is a failed experiment in psychedelic grunge.

This album also brings to a head the unlikely curse of Tristania - two stupendous singers. The operatic emotion of the beautiful Vibeke Stene and the haunting rich baritone of Osten Bergoy are at the forefront of this album where they belong, and both singers truly shine brightly throughout. However, giving both of these considerable talents room to roam means that neither is fully utilized, and you can only fantasize about how majestic an album could be when carried by either of them individually. Also, despite harmonizing occasionally, Vibeke and Osten are not effectively utilized as a team, and give the impression of singing their parts in isolation. This album sums up the fate of Tristania - two outstanding singers holding each other back from greatness, and a musical backdrop that is becoming less distinct and more directionless with each album. It's time for Vibeke and Osten to both go solo. [~doomsdayer520~]

Not so good........2007-02-10

SO....yeah...After Ashes I said I'd never buy another Tristania album, but; after reading the pre-reviews of "Illumination" being different, I thought "hey, why not?" (If you liked "Ashes" no need to read further).

WOW....if you liked Morten Veland era Tristania do not buy this Album, if you read this review never having listened to Tristania, and you like goth metal with choirs, orhcestras, operatic voices, and superb beauty and beast vocals, etc I'd go with Morten's new band Sirenia, or the Tristania albums, "Widow's Weed," and "Beyond the Veil" and coincidentally, Sirenia has a new one coming out in less than a month in the states. Having heard some if it on myspace I'd say save your money for that one, especially if your a person with limited music budget. It may not be fair to compare the band from the time of Morten to the present line-up, but the difference is massive, and in this listeners opinion, not for the better. On "Illumination," Tristania sounds like a younger Lacuna Coil, which isn't bad....for Lacuna Coil.

There is very little use of Vibke's airy angelic operatic voice, and the choirs and orchestra are almost non existent. As stated before, with one run-through of the album, it is very easy to compare them to a band sounding like Lacuna Coil, which is a huge jump (in my personal opinion) in the wrong direction from Widow's Weed and Veil. If your looking for supreme goth/black metal look for Sirenia. Nothing beats the lion roar of Morten.

If you liked "Ashes" then this album is up your alley, not much of a jump, although Vibke's vocal role is increased and the black metal voice is significantly less. The clean male voice and Vibke's voice harmonize...a lot... Leading them to sound a lot like Lacuna Coil

If you liked Ashes, buy this, if your more of a fan of Morten Veland era Tristania, you will be disappointed...go with Sirenia's "Nine Destinies and a Downfall."

One of my favorite ever! .......2007-02-10

I agreed with the last reviewer with the word " wow" but this album is more than " the best album for 2007 " .
i ordered this album with no expectation!!! i loved their last album " ashes" very much but i didn`t expect or never thought that " Illumination " would be one of my favorite cd or would be even better than ashes.
i would like to have an album that most of it is great. i would like to put it on my cd player and just enjoy most of it. The songs are very enjoyable , great music, great processing, great sound and i found their music very refreshing. I never thought Tristania will be one of my favorite band or one of their album would be one of my favorite but "ashes " and " Illumination " put Tristania on my map! real masterpieces !!! How can we say that one album is so great or one of the best ? Many other albums became pale or weak beside it. i ordered new albums from very successfuls bands and very great artists but after i put "Illumination" on my cd player i put the othe cd`s i got lately beside! (I do`nt speak as a fan , i never was).

Average customer rating:

Good Enigma...Err, Lesiem Album
Great music
A powerful follow up to "Mystic Spirit Voices"!
Similar to Pink Floyd and Enigma!!! Bulls*!%. :(
Ilya

Illumination
Lesiëm
Manufacturer: Intent City
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Mystic Spirit Voices
Auracle
Enchanted Spirits
Sanctuary
Gregorian Mystics

ASIN: B000092Q93
Release Date: 2003-06-24

Tracks:

Agnus Dei
Pater Patriae
Roma
Navigator
Poeta
Coloris
Africa
Britannia
La Rose
Aureus
Diva
Paradisus
Agnus Dei

Album Description

BILLBOARD TOP 10 ARTIST

For fans of Enigma & Pink Floyd

So begins the second chapter within the story of Lesiem. Where the mystery of romance and the wonders of mythology tell the tale of a golden age called Illumination.

Based on a gregorian chanting tradition that has been handed down for the past 50 years, Lesiem have created a universal musical style that will appeal to fans and lovers of the human voice.

Where the world of fantasy and reality merge into one, Lesiem open the heavens and paint the starry filled skies with the sensualness of operatic voices, worldbeat grooves, new age melodies and electronica elements into a musical genre they call Mystic-Pop.

Journey with Lesiem as the mystic, the lover and dreamer as you navigate through far away lands and magical places into Illumination.

Customer Reviews:

Good Enigma...Err, Lesiem Album.......2007-03-26

The sticker on Lesiem's 2003 album, "Illumination," says "For Fans Of Enigma And Pink Floyd." I thought, "Well, that definitely describes me," so I bought the disc. Having now played it twice, my impression of this German studio group's 2nd album is this: "Illumination" is nice, pleasant ambient music, with excellent sound quality and production values. My problem with Lesiem is that they sound a little *too* much like an Enigma wanna-be group (though I don't know why Pink Floyd's name was put on the promotional sticker, as Lesiem sound nothing like Floyd). Think of the landmark first Enigma album, "MCMXC A.D.," with the chanting monks, lush keyboards & rhythms, the sultry female voices, etc., and then listen to this album. You got the chanting male choirs (though they're not monks, I'll give 'em that), the Enigma-esque keyboards and rhythms, sultry female & male lead vocals, it's all there. I won't call it a rip-off job, but I just think Lesiem borrow a little too heavily from the musical blueprint that Enigma leader Michael Cretu drew up. Now, if you really want an album that Enigma fans will love but is NOT a carbon copy of Enigma, then I recommend the outstanding "Worlds Within" by Govinda (which, coincidently, is released on the same label as Lesiem, Intentcity Records). As it stands, Lesiem's "Illumination" is not a bad disc at all. It's a pleasant, soothing soundscape you can kick back with some late evening. But with the arrival of Enigma thirteen years earlier, Lesiem, while unquestionably a talented group, simply aren't all that original.

Great music.......2007-03-07

Lesiem is just a good group, I like all their music. Very deep and relaxing, yet some of it you just want to move your body.

A powerful follow up to "Mystic Spirit Voices"!.......2006-10-02

More compelling and inventive groove chant from German musicians Alex Wende, Henning Westland, Heiko Jerke and a cast of thousands (well, not literally, but too many to squint at and retype here). This is my favorite of Lesien's releases. All the best elements from Lesiem's debut album are back in full force--the vocal soloists, Latin chants, men's choirs, and world beat underpinnings, all stylishly orchestrated and passionately presented. I especially like the use of Klingon (yes, Klingon--hey, if a language has been created, why not use it?) in track #4. This sweeping soundscape is music that tells a story--and probably a different story for each listener. Join Lesiem in their journey to a place "where the mystery of romance and the wonders of mythology tell the tale of a golden age," and "where the world of fantasy and reality merge into one." The third album in the trilogy that begins with "Mystic Spirit Voices" and continues with "Illumination" is "Auracle" (released as "Times" in Europe). If you like the work of Lesiem, try also that of Magna Canta and Era - very similar, and also Amethystium. For sacred chants of other cultures set to music with a similar dark intensity, try Oceania and Uttara-Kuru.

Similar to Pink Floyd and Enigma!!! Bulls*!%. :(.......2006-03-21

Painful. This is the second Lesiem album that I have listened to, and I can't hear any traces of Enigma or Pink Floyd in this album. All I hear is terrible georgian chants that remind me of the singing in The Wicker Man. Lesiem's other album, 'Auracle' sounds exactly the same as 'Illumination'. The only difference between the two is that one is just as bad as the other.

If you are looking for something similar to Enigma, I suggest you try Amethystium. They do sound a little different to Enigma and are not as good but they are closer to Enigma than Lesiem.

Ilya.......2006-03-15

Simply excelent. It's no any reason to compare this masterpiece with other music achivements. The style, the quality, the originality - are perfect. Way to go!

Everyday Process: The Process of Illumination & Elimination

Average customer rating:

Another CM Hot one!!!
Another Hottt One From CMR!
Cop this album
Maybe Its Just Not My Style
Yo Son this album is Crakkk!

Everyday Process: The Process of Illumination & Elimination
Everyday Process
Manufacturer: Cross Movement
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Christian Rap | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music

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Christian Contemporary Music | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music

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Our World: Fallen
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ASIN: B000NDIAOM
Release Date: 2007-03-20

Tracks:

Intro (Straight To The Point)
Build Up
Resist The System
Give 'Em The Gospel
Grace
All I Need
Amazed
Bangin' Defined (Interlude)
Bangin'
Holla At Me
Live It Up
The After Party (Interlude)
The After Party
As Real As It Gets
Hey Girl
The World Needs Jesus
Shine Bright
Illumination & Elimination (Interlude)
Everyday All Day Cypha

Customer Reviews:

Another CM Hot one!!!.......2007-05-13

When I first listen to this CD I was like its alright. Then after I listen to the style and lyrics more it grew on me and know it is streight bangin in my ride. Christ Jesus is truly on this album. My fav's so far are:

1. Hey Girl (J.R. and Badia Jeter off the hook)
2. Grace
3. All I need
4. After Party
5. Build up (took me back to KRS-1)
6. Give'em the Gospel
7. Amazed
8. Everyday All Day Cypha

those are in heavy rotation but the album is st8 butta.

Get this Album
On that Glorious Day Will you Call Him Father or Judge?

Another Hottt One From CMR!.......2007-05-01

What we have here is a nice hip hop set from the latest addition to the CMR unit...Everyday Process. What really makes this one a keeper is that:(1)Jesus is represented in each joint...you're never lost in the wind as to whom they're referrin' to as the Way, Truth, and Life when they spit and (2)They're not mimickin' their CMR labelmates/peers the way Wu-Tang proteges were back in the day. I have to admit though, at first listen, I was agreein' with some of the other posts that were givin' em 3 stars. While the Intro was becomin' of a new addition to the CMR camp, to me, the lyrics/delivery could've used a little more polishin' and the album didn't really pick up for me until tracks 5-19.Everything from that point on is crisp, clean, Christ-centered, and apt to blowin' the speakers out if you're not careful. My personal fav's are #5-7,9-10,and 13-17. I was feelin' the cypha...but I prefer the cyphas from the older CM releases to this one. Everything CMR has stood for is in the formula behind EP's debut. Look forward to hearin' alot more from these brothers in the future.

1. Intro (Straight To The Point) 1/5
2. Build Up 1/5
3. Resist The System 1/5
4. Give 'Em The Gospel 2/5
5. Grace 5/5
6. All I Need 5/5
7. Amazed 5/5
8. Bangin' Defined
9. Bangin' 5/5
10. Holla At Me 5/5
11. Live It Up 5/5
12. The After Party (Interlude)
13. The After Party 5/5
14. As Real As It Gets 4/5
15. Hey Girl 5/5
16. The World Needs Jesus 5/5
17. Shine Bright 4/5
18. Illumination & Elimination (Interlude)
19. Everyday All Day Cypha 3/5

Cop this album.......2007-04-13

I love this album and have not been able to take it out of the cd player yet. I think the beats are on point. The sound is gritty underground east coast sound. My favorite tracks are Resist the System, Grace, and Shine Bright. If you love true hip hop you will love this album and as with every CMR album the Lord is upfront and center no compromise on the message or the quality of sound. God Bless Everyday Process and the rest of the CM family to keep doing their thing.

Maybe Its Just Not My Style.......2007-03-26

This album gets at least 3 stars off the bat because like every CMR artist or group they bring Christ front and center. However I really thought the flow was sloppy and the beats were offsetting, they didnt really go together. I thought half the songs were under par and the other half was ok. The only song that I really liked was the last one with Flame, Ambassador, Lecrae, Phanatik, and R-Swift. That song was more along the line of my style and taste. Again leading me to believe that Everyday Process is just not my style. But hey Im not shelvin it, I will give it another listen, like I said half was ok and Im sure it will grow on me. If it doesnt though, this might be the first CMR album I sell back.

Yo Son this album is Crakkk!.......2007-03-24

Yo this album right here is hotter than hot fam. I mean it's so gritty I know the burbs and the Hood dudes goan feel this. As they expound on Biblical Truth in such a way. Where the Un-Regenerate (meaning: Not Saved) listener who loves Hip Hop and has never stepped one foot in the church. Can sit and listen to this album and they would have to make a decision to except Jesus Christ as there LORD and Savior. There's no way in the world you can listen to this album and not make a clear cut decision on inviting the LORD Jesus Christ into your Heart by the end of this album. There Just No way, That's How Gritty and Real it truly is. So get the Album and Remember "Holiness First till we under the earth" That's Bangin.

Harry Thomas Jr

Average customer rating:

Transcendental, Mystical Soul Explorations
Better Breathing Through Music
Not what I was expecting

The Seven Chakras: Crystal Illumination
Aeoliah
Manufacturer: Oreade Music
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | New Age | Styles | Music

Meditation | New Age | Styles | Music

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Angel Love II: Sublime
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Activating Your Chakras Through the Light Rays
Love in the Wind
Serene

ASIN: B00000DC27
Release Date: 1998-10-06

Tracks:

Super Nova- Base Centre
1001 Nights-Spleen Centre
Garden Of Eternal Spring-Solar Plexus
Lotus Love-Heart Centre
Shamballa-Throat Centre
Consecration-Third Eye
Crystal- Illumation

Album Description

Each of these seven musical selections corresponds directly to each chakra, starting at the base of the spine, harmonizing and balancing the energy in that area.

Customer Reviews:

Transcendental, Mystical Soul Explorations.......2006-12-29

This is my first Aeoliah CD, and I was not disappointed. I heard track 5, "Shamballa" on my cable TV on 932, Soundscapes (commercial free music), and I knew that I had to have it. Each track focuses on a specific area of the body, and I found it very relaxing, and incredibly arousing when I was talking with my lover. It makes unsurpassed background music. "Shamballa" is absolutely heavenly. At night, when I need to go to sleep fast, I put the headphones and REPEAT on, and three hours later I had already felt relaxed, refreshed and rejuvinated. I only found the CD at Silver Platters, no one else carried it, I'm just glad it was in stock. The reverbent sounds of angelic synthesized chords, the ringing bells, cellos and flute delicately in the background make "The Seven Chakras" one of the premier ambient relaxation compositions of our time. It is also fantastic while giving and receiving massages, relieving stress and renewing the mind, and really makes one glad to feel alive. Outstanding value, a must have for the discreet, intellectual listener.

Better Breathing Through Music.......2006-12-28

I was playing cards on my computer in one room and listening to music coming from the music channel on my TV in another when I suddenly realized my breathing had changed dramtically. I felt relaxed and peaceful for the first time in years. After a few moments of concentration, I realized my breathing rhythm matched the rhythm of the music coming from my TV. I immediately raced to track down and purchase this amazing product. It has enhanced my life dramatically.

Not what I was expecting.......2004-01-12

I picked this up in a store because of the subtitle (Crystal Illumination). I thought this was a CD of crystal singing bowls. This CD was meant to be added to others that I use for qigong and meditation, however I found it inappropriate because of sudden, louder music that startled me. If you are looking for some meditation music I recommend looking elsewhere. Two chakra CDs I like are Paul Baker's "The Ladder of the Soul" (relaxing); and Layne Redmond's "Chanting the Chakras." (energizing).

Average customer rating:

Incendio-Illumination CD
Five stars isn't enough
Fantastic CD, highly recommend!!!
So tight. So great.
INCENDIO brings a new spirit to spanish music.....

Illumination
Incendio
Manufacturer: Paras Recording
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | New Age | Styles | Music

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Incendio
Seduction
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Misterioso
Dia y Noche

ASIN: B00005Q6O2
Release Date: 2001-11-06

Tracks:

Prajapati
Rambla Pacifica
Capetown Juerga
Illumination
Los Ladrones
Vamos Ya
Sophia
La Corrida
Caipirinha
Camino De Oro
Dhyana
Fuente De Almas
Dancing With The Dead

Amazon.com

Diversity of style is what makes Illumination an engaging listen. While purists may be offended by the electronic grooves in a few numbers, such as the poppy "Rambla Pacifica" and the Arabic-flavored title track, Incendio's Jim Stubblefield, Liza Carbe, and Jean-Pierre Durand--playing Spanish and steel-string guitars--get away with it because they're playing live and not sampling themselves. The threesome also utilizes the skills of many notable guest musicians, including drummer and percussionist Joe Shotwell, viola player Novi Novog, and flautist Steve Marsh. The beat-driven "Prajapati" plays off an Indian vibe, "Capetown Juerga" employs a jazzy approach, "La Corrida" invokes traditional flamenco, and the romantic ballad "Sophia" exudes immense crossover appeal. In fact, crossover is the operative word for the whole album. Old-school Latin and flamenco guitar buffs might not be as impressed as other listeners, but throughout Illumination, Stubblefield, Carbe, and Durand prove they have the chops to generate some gratifying Latin guitar fusion. --Bryan Reesman

Customer Reviews:

Incendio-Illumination CD.......2005-08-12

Great music. The beat gets a little repetitious, but overall a really good cd.

Five stars isn't enough.......2004-04-02

My first exposure to this band was at a live event, and I've been a walking, talking ad campain ever since. I am amazed at the number of emotions that the music is able to rip from my somewhat jaded soul. From the absolutely heart-rending Sophia to feelings somewhat like unrequited love in Dhyana. From the frenetic hysteria of songs like El Palenque and Delirium to the cool Sunday morning calm of Awakenings and Garden of Stone. The dreamy self-awareness that unveils itself during pieces like Illumination and El Celta are a perfect counterpoint to La Corrida and Rambla Pacifica which just make me happy to be alive and able to appreciate all of the talent these folks exhibit.

Songs like Luna, Duelo a la Muerte, and Loretana make me homesick for Andalusia Spain and I've never even been there. Prajapati and Black Opal can effectively transport me to exotic places without ever leaving my chair. And songs like Algeria feel like waking to long awaited sunshine after a long rainy storm. If you only buy one album, you'll soon be disappointed that you didn't get them all. My descriptions cover three of the CD that I own not just Iluumination.

Fantastic CD, highly recommend!!!.......2003-08-26

This is a great CD!!! Period! A cross of Latin and Middle Eastern sounds with wonderfully skilled artists! Just order it, you will love it.

So tight. So great........2002-11-23

I love this CD. I've been playing it for four days straight.

INCENDIO brings a new spirit to spanish music............2002-08-27

Right now.I am listening to Incendio's illumination cd.This cd starts with some magic of sitar,tabla,violon,flute,and spanish guitar.They mixed mostly the spanish guitar music with nice rhythm of trance,pop music.I love the way these talented guitarist plays their music.WIth fury,skill,passion,care,and love to the spanish guitar.This cd also has some latin style songs,some middle eastern music with trance music.track number 2 is my favourite track.My heart flies when I hear this song.VIVA the INCENDIO....

Illumination [Limited Edition w/ Bonus DVD]

Average customer rating:

CLASSIC WELLER AT HIS BEST
A Great CD!
King Mod
Great Songs, Great Bonus, Middling Production
Not Impressed

Illumination [Limited Edition w/ Bonus DVD]
Paul Weller
Manufacturer: Yep Roc Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music

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Stanley Road
Days of Speed
Catch-Flame!
As Is Now
The Complete Adventures of the Style Council

ASIN: B00007J4SZ
Release Date: 2003-01-14

Tracks:

Going Places
A Bullet For Everyone
Leafy Mysteries
Its Written In The Stars
Who Brings Joy
Now The Night Is Here
Spring (At Last)
One x One
Bag Man
All Good Books
Call Me No 5
Standing Out In The Universe
Illumination
Horseshoe Drama (Bonus Track)
Push Button, Automatic (Bonus Track)
Talisman (Bonus Track)

Tracks:

Sunflower (Video - Live From Hyde Park)
You Do Something To Me (Video - Live From Hyde Park)
Standing Out In The Universe (Video - Live From Hyde Park
It's Written In The Stars (Video)
Leafy Mysteries (Video)

Amazon.com

While Paul Weller veered from the Mod-obsessed, early-Who-inspired successes of the Jam to further explore the R&B and Motown roots of those influences with Style Council, his solo career has continued down that restless creative path with wildly disparate results. This 2002 collection strives to both showcase that diversity and further focus Weller's voice and songwriting sense to the spare, forceful vehicle that's brought him back to the top of the U.K. charts. There's an echo of the savory rootsiness of Rod Stewart's "Gasoline Alley" on tracks like "Going Places," the title track, and "Now the Night Is Here," but the album's back-to-the-future R&B sense (exemplified by the single "It's Written in the Stars") is often a deceptive tease. Weller's guitar-driven conscience tears into "A Bullet for Everyone" and "Leafy Mysteries" with the abandon of old, and his muse leads him as far a field as the wordless, raga trance of "Spring" and the acoustic folk of "Bag Man." Throughout it all, Weller's pop instincts remain strong, if prickly, as the music-hall-inspired "Push Button" and Mellencamp-esque "Talisman" (two of the album's three bonus U.K. B-sides) well attest. --Jerry McCulley

Customer Reviews:

CLASSIC WELLER AT HIS BEST.......2005-02-16

I've had this album for a few months now and it has only gotten better and better with each listen. The melodic hooks are brilliant, the lyrics are genius, and Weller sounds as fresh today as in the late 70s. I would put this album on par with Wild Wood and Stanley Road. If you are a Weller fan, I think you'll definitely dig this one.

A Great CD!.......2005-01-17

Why is it reviews of Weller always mention The Jam and Style Council? They were great bands, and I'm certainly a fan of them. Regardless, it's 25 years on, and let's listen to Illumination for what it is rather than the what it's not. I'll also applaud Mr. Weller for making music on his terms rather than cashing in on past glory.

Mr. Weller is a rare musical talent. His songwriting on Illuminatin reflects universal thoughts and emotions. It is recorded with minimal technological interference. This gives it a very laid back vibe, and an almost live feel. In a time where music recording electronically modifies pitches so everything is perfectly in tune, this is a welcome change.

Mr. Weller doesn't like to revisit old material. He challenges the listener to go with him. Most of his albums are growers. This is no exception. I've probably changed my favourite song off this CD 25 times.

I intended to write a song by song analysis, but my comments were all sounding the same. I'll just say I have an emotional connection to every one. Mr. Weller expresses his thoughts extremely well, and I've shared the same feelings. It's a that's-what-I-was felling perspective. Or a I've hoped for that too thing. There are several guest appearances. Each guest leaves you with a happy to play with Paul emotion. It's rare you have collaberations like this which are focused on music not dollars. For listeners not familiar with Brit music, you'll be enticed to investigate the Stereophonics due to Kelly Jones' collaberation

The bonus dvd is a wonderful extra. As a US fan, chances to see Weller live are minimal. The DVD illustrate the power, beauty, and passion in his songwriting.

A must buy for any music fan.

King Mod.......2004-12-22

Few pop stars age gracefully. Some descend into irrelevance (Elton John) or are canonized on the basis of recordings made during the Stone Age (Clapton). Sting, whose outfit the Police was roughly contemporaneous with the Jam, re-invented himself as a crooner of schmaltz and composer of TV commercial soundtracks. It's enough to not trust anyone over 40.

Enter Paul Weller and and 2002's Illumination. Whether a soulful ballad or guitar-saturated rocker, Illumination has an edginess often lacking in today's hipster bands. "Going Places," the CD's opener, is a gentle yet stubborn paean to mutability in an era of diminished expectations. After more than a quarter century in the business, Weller has moved beyond the youthful anger of the Jam's Setting Sons, yet Illumination proves that Weller has retained that most elusive of accolades -- street cred. He manages to pull off a seemingly insipid romantic ballad like "Now the Night is Here" with a passion & directness unusual, perhaps, for a man in his forties. Not since the Flying Burrito Brothers' little-known gem, "Here Tonight," has a love song sounded so uncontrived and sincere.

The "bonus" songs, especially the Kink-ish "Push Button, Automatic," blend right in, unlike most CD add-on tracks. The DVD is an appropriate finale, with strong live performances of "Sunflower" and "You Do Something To Me," from earlier solo albums, and Illumination videos, including the Squeeze-like "It's Written in the Stars."

Great Songs, Great Bonus, Middling Production.......2004-11-12

Now that I've had this disc for a year and half. And I've let it settle in. It dawned on me that the material is superb. But the production ... especially overlayering of many multitracked parts instead of relying on more "live" performances ... is heavy-handed and kind of sucks the life out of the performances. I couldn't quite put my finger on it when I first bought this disc in London while visiting on business. I, too, was a Jam fan since finding a cut-out of "This Is The Modern World" in a small record shop during the summer of 1979 (oh yeah!). So ... Weller is a long, long standing favorite of mine. In the end, I enjoy spinning this disc now by enjoying the songs and Weller's song craft. These tunes hang with his best.

Not Impressed.......2004-10-24

The Jam is probably one of my favorite bands of all time. When Weller branched off and created the Style Council it was an incredible display of growth and continued excellence. In Paul's solo carreer one could only expect a different direction. His love of soul music mixed with his genius writing ablity should have produced more great tunes. Unfortunately within this large body of new work there isn't one song that stands out as great or even good enough to merit repeated listens. Weller's skill is apparent but he's completely forgotten the basic ingredients to writing a memorable song. Illumination is another collection of alright music that has gone onto my CD shelves like the rest of his solo work, never to be played again. Weller is one of my music idols and he will never fall from that category but I really wish he would slow down his production of lots of forgettable songs and concentrate on writing what we've all come to know him for... unforgettable classics.

Average customer rating:

Mystical Magnificata of Spiritual Beauty
Vision ll
Where's the Hildegard?
Soaring Beauty
Among the better interpretations

Illumination

Manufacturer: Sony
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Vision: The Music of Hildegard von Bingen
Hildegard von Bingen: Canticles of Ecstasy
Vision: The Music of Hildegard von Bingen
Luminous Spirit
Heirborne

ASIN: B0000029V6
Release Date: 1997-03-11

Tracks:

Hildegard Von Bingen: The Fire And The Spirit: Kyrie
Hildegard Von Bingen: The Fire And The Spirit: The Fire of the Spirit
Hildegard Von Bingen: The Fire And The Spirit: Tree of Wonders
Hildegard Von Bingen: The Fire And The Spirit: Red River Falling
Hildegard Von Bingen: The Fire And The Spirit: Solitude
Hildegard Von Bingen: The Fire And The Spirit: The Angels
Hildegard Von Bingen: The Fire And The Spirit: Illumination
Hildegard Von Bingen: The Fire And The Spirit: Fiery Spirit
Hildegard Von Bingen: The Fire And The Spirit: Spirit of God
Hildegard Von Bingen: The Fire And The Spirit: Awaken the Dawn
Hildegard Von Bingen: The Fire And The Spirit: Word of Light
Hildegard Von Bingen: The Fire And The Spirit: Worship
Hildegard Von Bingen: The Fire And The Spirit: O Virgin Church
Hildegard Von Bingen: The Fire And The Spirit: In the Sanctuary

Customer Reviews:

Mystical Magnificata of Spiritual Beauty.......2005-11-03

Richard Souther transports the listener to an ethereal realm on each and every note and instrument, with each original arrangement. While the music and words were initially composed and written by Hildegard von Bingen, a highly evolved 12th century mystic, artist, and healer, Richard Souther rekindles the flame with updated interpretations and instruments (synthesizer, keyboards) to appeal to modern ears. Nothing is lost in the transition ... the heart of the listener expands ever wider as the music of the past greets the present, giving and receiving the gift of Spirit.

Sister Germaine Fritz, OSB sings vocals on "Kyrie" (track #1) accompanied by Davey Spillane with a low whistle while the all female string quartet, Cello, accompany on their instruments. It provides a deeply spiritual peace, comfort and solace. Another track, "The Fire of Spirit," ignites a flame which burns brighter the more one hears the music. The lyrics in Latin are a soulful meditation for anyone seeking peace and joy in tumultous times. The intro is sung by Noirin Ni Rian, whose distinctive voice adds the right qualities to the sacred text. Sister Germaine and Katie McMahon provide lead vocals with other worldly adoration and praise for life and all of creation.

Occasionally acoustic drums add a down to earth natural appealing rhythm. The African djembe sounds nearly like a harp, bringing the listener closer to the angelic realm. The lyrics are in Latin, which has mystical and ethereal qualities sung by first class female vocalists. The mellow tones of the Cello quartet vibrate in harmony with each word sung in Latin. Anyone desiring to feel closer to Divinity and the Source should own this CD. The music celebrates life in all its myriad of forms and expressions ... providing Grace to all who listen.
Erika Borsos (erikab93)

Vision ll.......2003-01-29

When Richard Souther finished recording Vision in 1994 for Angel Records he was soon asked to do 'Vision II' which was no surprise considering the critical and commercial success of Vision.
At this point he chose to change record labels and signed a 7 album deal with Sony Classical. This seems to have played a major role in the shaping of Illumination. With the financial weight of Sony behind him Richard had the freedom to pick and choose his guest musicians. The line-up speaks for itself.

Where as Vision has a strong musical identity and is basically a showcase for the extraordinary talent of Richard Souther, Illumination explores new musical terratories.
Like Vision, it is not a straight cover of Hildegard's gospels but a musical impression of her works that is uniquely interpreted. There is more of a world music feel to Illumination with contributions from the likes of Davey Spillane (Riverdance) reinforcing this feel.
There are some haunting vocal passages and a wide and varied mix of tones and textures that give this album an almost cold and disconcerting edge when compared to Vision. It certainly requires a little more time to absorb than its sibling but as the music unfolds the listener is treated to an aural tapestry of beautiful atmospheres and sublime musicianship.

Another essential purchase for music lovers with vision.

Where's the Hildegard?.......2002-07-04

Overall, a worthy attempt, but having heard both Vision as well as studied Hildegard's music in its original, and the performance by Anonymous Four, I ultimately found this album somewhat lacking. First, most of the cuts do not even feature Hildegard's music. Sure, some of the plainsong modulations are picked up in the synthesizer meditations, but where is the substance of Hildegard's work? I do like the mix of multi-cultural motifs, which chant lends itself to, but it overwhelms the timeless genius of the great nun. What there is of Hildegard is re-worked to the point that it is unrecognizable. The one cut I did NOT care for was track 9 "Spirit of Fire" which could have been renamed "Spirit of Ennui" or "Spirit of 'I just got this new keyboard let me see how it works.'"

I, for one, like "Vision" much better - but then, I also prefer Enigma's Return to Innocence.

Soaring Beauty.......2001-05-23

This is my favorite cd of all time. I was browsing through the library's cd collection about 8 months ago when I caught the name "Hildegard von Bingen" out of the corner of my eye. Being a fan of all things Hildegard, I borrowed it from the library and took it home with me... Dear God, I was blown away! I've never heard anything more beautiful. It manages to reach incredible soaring heights without ever truely increasing the sound level, and it really is like a journey. Ok, that sounds pretentious, I know, but it's like a story unravelling. Anyways, enough of my raptured sighs - get this cd, listen to it, you will LOVE it!

Among the better interpretations.......2001-04-11

A wonderfull collection of songs. As a seasoned collector of von Bingen recordings, this has been a very gratifying CD to listen to. This recording surpassed my expectations.

Soulflight: Chanted Mantras for Healing and Illumination

Average customer rating:

Step Into the Light
wonderful, buy it!
One of my favorites for yoga and meditation
Touches your soul.

Soulflight: Chanted Mantras for Healing and Illumination

Manufacturer: Soulflight Unlimited
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Into the Hands of God
Bija: Soothing Music and Mantras for Yoga and Relaxation
Kripalu Yoga: A Guide to Practice On and Off the Mat

ASIN: B0006FT9TM
Release Date: 2003-10-15

Tracks:

Musical Introduction
Mahamrtyunjaya Mantra
Musical Interlude
Gayatri Mantra
Musical Interlude
Om Namah Sivaya Gurave
Musical Close

Album Description

Let your soul take flight in the chanting of these ancient Sanskrit mantras. The first invokes empowerment and healing, the second, spiritual illumination, and the third, surrender and gratitude. Chant along for your own mantra meditation practice, or enjoy the mantras as a soft, supportive companion for yoga, meditation, massage or daily tasks.

The album provides continuous music, moving from mantra to mantra with flute interludes between, but is designed with marked tracks so that you can go directly to any part of the album, or repeat a partiuclar track if you want to stay with one of the mantras for an extended period.

Customer Reviews:

Step Into the Light.......2005-12-21

Purchase this spiritual masterpiece; also purchase The Health and Spirituality Yantra from Vastu Creations (available from Amazon); play track 2 - Mahamrtyunjaya Mantra and chant along to activate the Yanta. Bliss Out!

wonderful, buy it!.......2005-10-30

I ordered this CD hoping for the tranquility it promised, even though I laughed at the idea that I might "chant along". Not me, not ever. When I began playing the CD, I was not too impressed. Then my husband came home and he said "What's that horrible noise? Can you turn that off?" I re-read the reviews, wondering how I'd been mislead into wasting my money.
Next day, when hubby was at work I tried listening one more time. Surprise #1: Wow, not only was it beautiful and calming, I was totally amazed to find that I couldn't help but chant (well, humm) along.
Surprise #2: When hubby came home, this time I left the CD playing at a lower volume,and there were no complaints. We both felt calm and peaceful. Big difference from the usual afternoon atmosphere when the radio news is on while I make dinner and he works on the computer.
Now I am in love with this CD and I play it every day. I find myself feeling that I am drifting down a beautiful stream, passing beneath trees laden with fragrant blossoms, and all is right with the world. And I always hum along...

One of my favorites for yoga and meditation.......2005-05-28

I first heard about this cd in 2004 while at one of Bhavani's meditation retreats. She had been singing to us all week and I eagerly awaited the release of this album. My fiance ordered it for me for Christmas and it remains one of my favorites. When I play it during a yoga class, students will always ask me about it and where they can get it. I'm so glad Amazon is selling it. You won't be disappointed.

Touches your soul........2005-05-06

Bhavani selected the appropriate title for this album. She has a voice like an angel and tocuches your soul with her voice. Whether you are just listening or chanting along your soul will take flight.

Average customer rating:

A lot of fun.
awesome.
Good things come in short packages
Good Music

Illumination!
Elvin Jones , and Jimmy Garrison Sextet
Manufacturer: Grp Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Avant Garde & Free Jazz | Jazz | Styles | Music

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Milestones
Thelonious Monk Quartet with John Coltrane at Carnegie Hall

ASIN: B0000065KJ
Release Date: 1998-02-24

Tracks:

Nuttin' Out Jones
Oriental Flower
Half And Half
Aborigine Dance In Scotland
Gettin' On Way
Just Us Blues

Customer Reviews:

A lot of fun........2003-12-15

I'm not too keen on 60's avant guard jazz, I prefer 50's jazz much more, however this album is a lot of fun from Jones and Garrison larking about on the cover through the linear notes to the music itself and its possible that the title was also a jab at other artists who took themselves too seriously. The album benefits from having an excellent rhythm section that is already a band so the tunes are pacy and keep their shape and the three additional wind instrument players know how to play avant guard without making it sound like a strangled cat. Like another reviewer has commented its a pity this combo didn't make any more records.

awesome........2002-11-12

illumination is one of my favorite recordings of elvin. the instrumentation is also very interresting, balancing the subtle tones of a clarinet with a sax. (also, mccoy tyner is awesome.) i love aboriginie dance in scotland. elvin seems to flow from one bar to the next. half and half is another favorite. overall, an outstanding album.

Good things come in short packages.......2000-07-27

I'm tempted to downgrade this a half-star simply because Impulse for some reason saw fit to release it in its original LP configuration, which totaled a mere 32 minutes. Given that the vast majority of CD releases today feature alternate takes and previously unreleased material, it seems "Illumination" would be a prime candidate for some beefing up. No such luck.

The fact is you feel the brevity of the CD keenly because what's here is so good, and I can't downgrade Jones and Garrison for the fact there isn't more of it. This is a smoking contemporary jazz set that brings together three-quarters of John Coltrane's famous quartet, backed by three superb and all-too-seldom-heard hornmen: Prince Lasha, Charles Davis, and Sonny Simmons.

Faint-of-heart hornmen have never needed to apply to play in front of Jones, and these three show they are up to the task of barging through the spirited challenge the drummer lays down. Lasha rips through the opener, "Nuttin' Out Jones," hanging in superbly when McCoy Tyner decides, as he often did when playing with Coltrane, to lay out and let the horn take on playing with Jones and Garrison alone.

Davis has a great baritone solo on "Half and Half," and the vastly underrated Sonny Simmons makes an eloquent, fiery statement on "Gettin' On Way." Along the way we get a dose of lyricism in "Oriental Flower," and an odd twist and musical union of the type Jones is fond of throwing in, with "Aborigine Dance in Scotland."

So what the heck: after the 32 minutes are over, you'll simply play the CD over again, and enjoy it just as much as you did the first time.

Good Music.......1999-07-16

Illumination is basically the legendary John Coltrane Quartet, with three reed players standing in for Coltrane himself... which seems just about right! Here we have drummer Elvin Jones and bass player Jimmy Garrison utilizing an oportunity as leaders instead of their traditional sideman role. And, for Garrison, this would be his only instance playing this card. The tone is relaxed and the reed soloists (Prince Lasha on clarinet and flute, Sonny Simmons on alto sax and English horn, and Charles Davis on baritone sax) provide an interesting alternative to the bands usual boss. And of course that rhythm section (Elvin, Jimmy & McCoy) is just bad. You don't have to say nothin' about that. They just bad. Lastly, everyone but Elvin Jones throws in an original tune for good measure which makes the album even more unique. They didn't just play standards or other peoples songs. It's a shame that this group didn't exist more outside a few studio sessions...