Scarecrow

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Though the comparison has often been applied to him unfairly, it's fair to say that Scarecrow is to John Cougar Mellencamp what Born in the U.S.A. is to Bruce Springsteen: a hugely popular hit that solidified both his fan base and his critical reputation. The one important difference is that U.S.A.'s message was largely misinterpreted (Ronald Reagan co-opted the title song in a manner that's tragically ironic), while Scarecrow's ode to Mellencamp's native Indiana comes through loud and clear. Shortly after the release of this album, Mellencamp got involved in the Farm Aid benefit-concert series, and his concern for that lifestyle is evident on songs like "Small Town," "Rain on the Scarecrow," and "Rumbleseat"; other songs ("Lonely Old Night," "R.O.C.K. in the U.S.A.") are straight from the heart(land). --Randy Silver

Scarecrow,John Mellencamp,Mercury / Universal,Pop,Rock,Rock/Pop

Scarecrow

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One of His Best
A Classic
Defining Moment
R-0-C-K With Mellencamp! A Damn Good Collection!
Scarecrow is an old favorite

Scarecrow
John Mellencamp
Manufacturer: Island / Mercury
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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The Lonesome Jubilee
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American Fool
Big Daddy
Whenever We Wanted

ASIN: B0009IW9D4
Release Date: 2005-05-24

Tracks:

Rain On The Scarecrow
Grandma's Theme
Small Town
Minutes To Memories
Lonely Ol' Night
The Face Of The Nation
Justice And Independence '85
Between A Laugh And A Tear
Rumbleseat
You've Got To Stand For Somethin'
R.O.C.K. In The U.S.A. (A Salute To '60s Rock)
The Kind Of Fella I Am
Small Town

Customer Reviews:

One of His Best.......2007-07-03

If you love John Mellencamp, you love this album because it epitomizes why you like his music. Home-grown, down to earth music about people and places and hard times. It's the music of the common man and John's got it down like no one else with this style. I have several copies of this one to be sure I have it when I need it! As with the Jubilee album, the instrumentation is superb and the way these songs make you feel is why you love Mellencamp.

A Classic.......2007-02-08

This album is a classic - Mellencamp was ahead of his time when he released this superb album

Defining Moment.......2007-01-03

Every artist has a defining moment in his/her recording career - that one album that says both, "I've arrived" and "I've made it" at the same time. Pink Floyd had it with Dark Side of the Moon, AeroSmith had it with Toys in the Attic, Toto had it with IV, Queen had it with A Night at the Opera and Def Leppard had it with Hysteria. That being said, Scarecrow is that defining moment album for John Mellencamp. Mellencamp's previous two albums American Fool and Uh-Huh are very good with many good songs each, however, Scarecrow is a cohesive piece of work that almost sounds like a concept album based on the life and times of 1980s Midwesterners AND has hit singles as well. Not many artists can pull that off, but Mellencamp does with Scarecrow. This is one of the few albums that I've had on vinyl, cassette, CD and re-mastered CD. The re-mastered CD is amazing and I can hear instruments that I never knew were in the songs previously.
All in all, this is my favorite release from John Mellencamp, even if parts of R.O.C.K in the USA sound like the Pretender's song Middle of the Road. Highly recommended!

R-0-C-K With Mellencamp! A Damn Good Collection!.......2006-09-02

To say this is a masterpiece is a vast understatement. This is truly one of the best collections ever recorded in the mid 1980s. Mellencamp ROCKS!

Mellencamp is one of those rare, naturally gifted artists who works straight from the soul. His music is transported to those fortunate enough to hear it. His lyrics are raw, cutting edge, sharp and brilliant. He makes his listeners FEEL his raw emotions, experience the world as he knew it through his songs.

His musical vignettes, such as "Jack & Diane" will remain timeless classics; his stellar hit "Small Town" is a unifier that could be about any town under the sun.

The title song "Rain on the Scarecrow" is a musical account of farm living. In fact, it was Mellencamp, Willie Nelson, Neil Young and others who banded together for Farm Aid to help independent farmers. Mellencamp's cause has grown deep roots into the farmlands of each person's experience. So has his excellent music.

"Minutes to Memories" does indeed show a maturing Mellencamp; a man who is at home with and at peace with himself and his life. His music is the voice of life experience; it is also the voice of shared life experience. In short, Mellencamp's work is a form of cultural sharing.

Listeners will undoubtedly love this collection; no doubt you will be R-O-C-K-I-N' your heart out as you sing and dance along to this collection. Mellecamp's multitude of musical vocal styles will certainly keep you avidly listening and hoping for more.

Mellencamp R-O-C-K-S!

Scarecrow is an old favorite.......2006-04-23

Scarecrow has now joined the small group of select albums that I have owned on vinyl, cassette, and also CD. For me only the old, long-standing favorites are worth buying three times. Thanks to the modern gift of digitally remastered recording, today's version of Scarecrow sounds better than ever before.

Scarecrow is comprised of songs from middle America about middle America. John Mellencamp proudly sings of his small town roots in the song that is probably THE quintessential single from his storied career. Of course this disc carries another other big hit, "Lonely Ol' Night." Everybody knows those tunes, and they certainly represent the essence of Scarecrow, but the heart and soul of this album are found elsewhere, on the lesser known tracks. The poignant "Between a Laugh and a Tear," the spirited "Rumbleseat," the reflective "Minutes to Memories," and the stirring "Rain on the Scarecrow" are examples of how potent these songs are in their own right. Collectively, these songs convey powerful messages about home, family, country, society, and life in general. I love every track on this disc, even the homey reprieve, "Grandma's Theme," which is guaranteed to conjure up memories of your own grandmother (or maybe great grandmother) in her rocking chair.

I must cite one track on Scarecrow that happens to be among my very favorite songs of all time: "Justice and Independence '85" is a driving rocker with clever lyrics and distinctively pounding drums. I have rarely heard percussion with such passion. The drums back Mellencamp's intense vocals to elevate this song into the stratosphere.

After Scarecrow, I don't believe that Mellencamp was as commercially successful with his subsequent releases, but he definitely continued to write some great music. Scarecrow was the crowning point of Mellencamp's career; it was a wildly popular album back in the mid 80's, and the music and themes you'll find here are as relevant today as they were over twenty years ago.

Average customer rating:

Back to Basics: Rested and Ready
Another great GB cd!
Disappointment
!!!!GREAT MUSIC!!!!!
garth at his best

Scarecrow
Garth Brooks
Manufacturer: Capitol
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B00005QB7M
Release Date: 2001-11-13

Tracks:

Why Ain't I Running
Beer Run (duet with George Jones)
Wrapped Up In You
The Storm
Thicker Than Blood
Big Money
Squeeze Me In (duet with Trisha Yearwood)
Mr.Midnight
Pushing Up Daises
Rodeo Or Mexico
Don't Cross The River
When You Come Back To Me Again

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Nearly a decade ago, Garth Brooks's ability to incorporate '70s pop material and arena rock into his act made history (and controversy) as he propelled country to its pinnacle of success. One fact remains in 2001. When he simply rears back and sings (in the spirit of longtime pal Chris LeDoux), the results are often fresh and natural. That's the case on the Beatle-esque "Wrapped Up in You," "Thicker Than Blood," and the trite but catchy blue-collar bopper "Big Money." Alas, that slicker, more calculated material is never far away. Awash in melodrama, "The Storm" (a bathos-ridden variant on "The Thunder Rolls"), "Mr. Midnight," and "Pushing Up Daisies" each run four-plus minutes and seem longer. The hyperactive bluegrass romp "Don't Cross the River" seems less homage than a nod to the successful O Brother soundtrack. While duets with George Jones and Trisha Yearwood have merit, one wonders who really needs who. All this might have been cutting edge in 1992. Now it simply seems long in the tooth. --Rich Kienzle

Customer Reviews:

Back to Basics: Rested and Ready.......2006-08-10

Garth Brook's 'Scarecrow' is simply one of his best C.D.'s. It's true that the songs individually aren't as big as most of those on 'The Hits' collection, but together it is a genuine classic--even though there are more subdued moments within.

"Why Ain't I Running" heralds the album with progressive guitars that helped establish Garth as the king of "hot new country". While "Wrapped up in You" has to be as pop-pleasing as Garth gets. However, "Beer Run" is an even better representation of Garth country. Singing a duet with George Jones and accompanied by skillful fiddling, Garth delivers his best song. The caliber of the album is also broadened on "Squeeze Me In," which he sings with then-girlfriend Trisha Yearwood. (This spirited selection is even more worthwhile than their duet, "Love Will Always Win" on the more recent 'Lost Sessions' C.D.) The musicianship is more carefully presented than many of his mid-career works, but the writing is particularly good on "The Storm," with its tender tale and its extended metaphor about family squabbles. His beautiful and eloquent peace song, "Thicker than Blood" illustrates how consistently he is true to himself. "Thicker than Blood" is a spare and tender song with fine and simple lyrics, but "Big Money" is as bottom-line as he gets, musically or lyrically. Whether progressive or traditional, Garth is genuine. Even his one remake "Don't Cross the River" is too good to be redundant.

Overall, the quality songwriting and the back up musicianship make 'Scarecrow' one of Brook's best harvests. Every bad thing is warded away-- except for the corn, and here, thankfully, there's plenty.

Another great GB cd!.......2006-02-15

Garth does it again! I have all his CDs, and this one ranks up there on my list. Well worth purchasing!

Disappointment.......2005-08-23

Not classic Garth. Has some influences from earlier CD's but does not have the "heart" of songs like The Dance and the River. Seems more of a collection of songs that Garth wants to do rather than songs that fans want to hear.

!!!!GREAT MUSIC!!!!!.......2004-11-06

(:This is one of Garth Brook's best CDs!!! This CD would defintly be worth you're money. Very Entertaining!:) *_*

garth at his best.......2003-12-18

i am a very big garth fan and i have all the albums and most deffintley this one stands out the most .All garth albums have very powerful words and sends out big emotions but if you listen to scarecrow it will make you laugh and it will make you cry.I thnik the storm is a very emotional song and his best song yet.

Average customer rating:

eh - not the best
A beautiful knife to the heart
the mix tape in your heart....
Scarling surpasses Jack Off Jill
beautiful music

So Long, Scarecrow
Scarling
Manufacturer: Sympathy 4 the R.I.
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B000A6CKW0
Release Date: 2005-08-23

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Hello London
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So Long, Scarecrow

Album Description

2004 was quite an amazing yet very taxing year for SCARLING. It included the release of their 7-song EP Sweet Heart Dealer, a nomination for the Short List award, an opening spot on the Curiosa Tour, the loss of two band members and many other Joycean moments. SCARLING.'s current line-up is Jessicka, Christian Hejnal, Rickey Lime and new drummer Beth Gordon. The band's new album So Long, Scarecrow is a collection of songs about mutual malaise, self-exploration, melancholy, heart's resilience and general frustration. It is 50 minutes of art-damaged, fuzz-guitars and cough syrup-induced vocals, and is being co-produced by Rob Campenella (BRIAN JONESTOWN MASSACRE).

Customer Reviews:

eh - not the best.......2007-04-04

It's not right to compare Jack Off Jill and Scarling, because the bands are basically polar opposites. My musical tastes lends itself more (much more) toward Jack Off Jill, and this CD is just lacking a little something. The songs seem to blend into each other and proves to be a little monotonous. I listened to the full CD about a dozen times before the songs started to become a little catchy, which isn't a good signal that I'm in love with it. I think their previous efforts (earlier Scarling Cd's) were much more compelling and diverse.

A beautiful knife to the heart.......2006-03-22

After recovering from the buzzsaw guitar wash of "Sweet Heart Dealer" we get nearly two years later this surprise of an album from these LA darlings. Yes, the spectre of MBV does loom over the guitar work but the sound is cleaner (though still raw in its urgency) thereby revealing the melodic flow. The oversll production reveals the bass to hold the center of songs so that thte guitars can wash over one another instead of coalescing into a dissonant buzz. They hum instead of roaring. And the songs? Still littered with moments of disappointment, bleak and stark relationships and hopelessness but swirling around an amalgam of sound that's part Cure, MBV, Jack Off Jill, Joy Division and Jesus and Mary Chain. Best moments are City Noise, Bummer (neat chorus and hook), Manorexic, Stapled to the Mattress and the title tune. This is music that will rip your soul from its blood soaked foundations and having you thank them for it.

the mix tape in your heart...........2006-03-22

First off, it IS different from Jack Off Jill... don't purchase this CD expecting it to be a duplicate of Jack Off Jill. This CD shows growth in both voice and music depth. The tracks can go from bouncy and bubbly to solemn and somber, but flow smoothly and creates balance. I can't say I love one band over the other because they are two completely different sounds. All I can say is that I LOVE So Long, Scarecrow and that I recommend it to anyone who doesn't mind change.

Scarling surpasses Jack Off Jill.......2006-03-21

This proves that Scarling is an original and creative band, far surpassing Jack Off Jill. All JOJ fans can be sure, that Scarling is no JOJ reborn, but is it's own band, inovative and brain-tickling. What a refreshing break from the norm!
~Mirlin Poplar

beautiful music.......2006-03-17

I am so glad I discovered this band. I love this CD and never get sick of it!!! I'm only depressed that I don't have Sweet Heart Dealer.

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Radio Frequency Disaster
Scarecrow Collection
Manufacturer: Harmonized
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Why didn't this Album Garner "Album of the Year" Consideration?
One Of The Best Ever
John's greatest acheivment...
John Cougar Mellencamp's Best Record
One of the all time great albums

Scarecrow
John Mellencamp
Manufacturer: Island / Mercury
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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The Lonesome Jubilee
Uh-Huh
American Fool
Big Daddy
John Mellencamp

ASIN: B000001FCY
Release Date: 1990-10-25

Tracks:

Rain On The Scarecrow
Grandma's Theme
Small Town
Minutes To Memories
Lonely Ol' Night
The Face Of The Nation
Justice And Independence '85
Between A Laugh And A Tear
Rumbleseat
You've Got To Stand For Somethin'
R.O.C.K. In The U.S.A. (A Salute To 60's Rock)
The Kind Of Fella I Am

Amazon.com essential recording

Though the comparison has often been applied to him unfairly, it's fair to say that Scarecrow is to John Cougar Mellencamp what Born in the U.S.A. is to Bruce Springsteen: a hugely popular hit that solidified both his fan base and his critical reputation. The one important difference is that U.S.A.'s message was largely misinterpreted (Ronald Reagan co-opted the title song in a manner that's tragically ironic), while Scarecrow's ode to Mellencamp's native Indiana comes through loud and clear. Shortly after the release of this album, Mellencamp got involved in the Farm Aid benefit-concert series, and his concern for that lifestyle is evident on songs like "Small Town," "Rain on the Scarecrow," and "Rumbleseat"; other songs ("Lonely Old Night," "R.O.C.K. in the U.S.A.") are straight from the heart(land). --Randy Silver

Customer Reviews:

Why didn't this Album Garner "Album of the Year" Consideration?.......2005-10-01

By the time 1985 would roll around, John Mellencamp (or known at that time as John Cougar Mellencamp) had established himself as a star in Rock music. He gained a following back in 1979 with his hit "I Need a Lover". With his 1982 album, "American Fool" he became a household name with the songs "Jack and Diane" and "Hurts so Good". His next album, 1983's Uh Huh" was not considered the blockbuster follow-up to "American Fool" that many expected - although it did produce two hits in "Crumblin Down" and "Pink Houses". So, in 1985 when Mellencamp released "Scarecrow", many would have the question whether John Mellencamp had peaked? The answer clearly would be no. For Mellencamp, he would deliver the defining album of his career - a mix of social and political commentary with some of the classic Mellencamp "Middle America" music that made him so popular. What shocks me is how this album didn't garner attention for Album of the Year.

Perhaps "Uh Huh" got released during the peak of the synth pop revolution of the early 1980s. But as 1985 came around, the music landscape was starting to undergo some changes. Only a about a year before, Bruce Springsteen had released "Born in the USA". I look at "Born in the USA" as a landmark album for many reasons, but perhaps one of the most important reasons is that it began to shift the sound of the 80s music scene away from synth-pop to a more natural guitar-laden sound. By 1985, other artists were now beginning to find commercial success with that sound - such as John Fogerty ("Centerfield"). Artists such as Springsteen and Fogerty were mixing their own musical roots with social commentary. Mellencamp's "Scarecrow" fits into this mold perfectly - and came along at the right time where the music fans were willing to embrace this style. However, Mellencamp's "Scarecrow" goes beyond this embracing - it delivers a most solid sound.

Here is a track by track breakdown of this album:

"Rain on the Scarecrow": This is the title track and not only the best song on the album, but I feel the best of Mellencamp's career. The song's opening immediately creates a haunting song. This is a song that Mellencamp sings about the plight of the American Farmers facing foreclosures. Mellencamp sings this song with pure passion. He does a great job at playing the role of the banker who is handling the foreclosure - "John, it's just my job and I hope you understand". This song featured a very good video - and the added sounds of a farm auction that are in that video give the song a new dimension. Listening to this song, you can see why Mellencamp felt so passionately about "Farm Aid".

"Grandma's Song": This public domain song is sung by Mellencamp's Grandmother, Laura Mellencamp. Not a great song, but it is a great lead-in to "Small Town".

"Small Town": The title says it all. This song is about a - small town. Back in 1986, radio overplayed this song - however looking back at it now - very good song.

"Minutes to Memories": I'd put this underrated song in the upper echelon of Mellencamp's work. This song is a great mix of Mellencamp's Social Commentary with his Middle America music. This is a narrative sung by Mellencamp about an elderly man who has seen things change around him. On top of the great lyrics, there is some great music as well.

"Lonely Ol' Night": This was the first song released from this album. This song almost is in the theme of "Jack and Diane" as it has the feel of a young man growing up in Middle America. This is a great song and probably lured a lot of people to buy this album.

"The Face of a Nation": This is a clear social/political commentary. When Mellencamp sings "You see people starvin' under the tree", it is clear that Mellencamp is looking at society and questioning how these things can happen.

"Justice and Independence": This song has a great melody, but it is also a bit of an symbolic allegory. "Independence" is a man who marries "Justice" who is a woman - they have a son named "Nation". Listen to the words carefully as Mellencamp uses the family as a way to compare to the concepts of Justice, Independence, and Nation we are all familiar with. Masterful songwriting - also some terrific percussion and trumpet work.

"Between a Laugh and a Tear": This is another underrated song that I put in the upper echelon of Mellencamp's career. This title might not indicate social commentary - but it's loaded with references - such as "When paradise is no longer fit for you to live in, and your adolescent dreams are gone". This song is a duet with Ricki Lee Jones and it blew me away.

"Rumbleseat": Kind of a song that takes you back to the 1950s - it has a retro feel to it. It seems to be more of a personal song of Mellencamp's own experiences - great stuff.

"You Gotta Stand For Somethin": I thought this was the toughest to get into, but lyrically it's a solid track. It almost takes you on a historical journey of pop culture from 1950 onward.

"R.O.C.K. in the U.S.A": Great song, but was overplayed on the radio. This is a tribute to the early pioneers of Rock and Roll.

"The Kind of Fella I am": Another great song. This song is basically about a jealous man. It's a fun song and nice way to wrap things up.

The liner notes contain all of the lyrics, songwriting, and musician credits. I love how you get the recording dates and times of the songs. This song is clearly the defining album of Mellencamp's career. It also has the best music that he did. Truly one of the underrated albums of the 1980s - I highly recommend it.

One Of The Best Ever.......2005-05-03

John Mellencamp is one of the greatest singer/songwriters ever. This is his best album. But All of them are good. I've followed John from he early days playing around central Indiana in the 70's to his making big in the early 80's on through his second greatest hits cd. . His music always says something. Just listen to this disc and its 's there. Songs like Rain On The Scarecrow or Small Town or ROCK In The USA. I highly recommend this and all of John's albums. This is one of my all time favorite albums ever. Great midwestern rock and roll at it's best.

John's greatest acheivment..........2005-04-18

I can't explain in words how wonderful this record is.John has always been one of my favorite musicians and songwriters,he just knows how to tell a great story through his music.For me, Scarecrow is John Mellencamp at his artistic best, i can listen to any of his works and enjoy them but nothing can beat Scarecrow as far as i'm concerned.

I'v technically been a fan since 1988, when i was living in Exeter New Hampshire."Jack and Diane" was the first song i ever heard in my life, i was 4 years old at the time and that was what started it all for me.I'v always had JM albums laying around since then in some form or another and listened to them quiet often.American Fool, Uh-HUH and Scarecrow were the ones i listened to the most.Scarecrow is one of the finest rock records ever commited to wax,and i think this utterly destroys Springsteen's much more popular Born in the U.S.A. album released a year earlier.JM is just a superior songwriter and preformer when compared to The Boss,mainly because you can hear where John's music is coming from, as demonstrated beautifuly by Scarecrow. This Album was predominatly inspired by John's life growing up in the farm land of his native Indiana,which is the first time i'v really seen a theme be put through a collection of songs(album).I won't go over every song here as to not sound redundant but i will mention the highlights. "Rain on the Scarecrow" is one of the best JM songs ever written, real anger is put through the songs lyrics which are about the plight of hard-working farmers losing their farmland to the govenment(can any one say Megadeth's "Forcolsure of a Dream"?). "Small Town" is a classic rock radio staple and the most famous song off of this album. "Face of a Nation" has a real edgy,moody beat and is one of my favorites from here. "Justice and Independence 85" is an attack on the American justice system. "R.O.C.K in the U.S.A" is a classic rock n roll song and the most upbeat tune found here. I could go on like this for every song, but i won't. The truth is that this whole album will get you, it is one of the most emotional albums i have ever listened too.While i enjoy everthing John has done, Scarecrow is his finest hour and i can't imagine my music collection with out it.It is really a timeless record, unlike alot of garbage that is(was) released in an effort to acheive the commercial cash cow.With this being his fifth studio effort, it is intersting to take a look progresivly at how John developed and evolved from his self titled debut all the way up to this one.He has definatly matured and progressed on each of his albums since the inception but you can see it most here.Some of the lyrics tackeled issues that were happening in 85 and in someways are still relevent today. Overall, this album is nothing short of amazing in every aspect;the musicianship,songwriting,lyrics,heart,emotion, this album has it in spades.

Have some great memories from listening to this album.When you compare it to the corprate junk that was coming out at the time in music, you will realize it was one of the most sincere and heartfelt rock records to come out of the 80's.You just can't go wrong with this one, in my top 10 of desert island CDs.

It made me a John Mellencamp fan for life, and it might make you one as well.

John Cougar Mellencamp's Best Record.......2005-02-08

This album is one of the top ten rock and roll records of all time. No record, with the possible exception of R.E.M.'s "Lifes Rich Pageant", has as much genuine feeling, with such a natural sound. It's no surprise, then, to find out that both of these records were recorded in the same place with the same producer. A record can be judged best ten years or more after it is released. This record sounds as fresh and new today as it did twenty years ago, and that is what makes it great.

"Rain on the Scarecrow"- A great, pulsing, driving song, that is so different from anything else in Mellencamp's work. This song will make you angry, which is good.

"Small Town" - One of the greatest rock and roll songs of all time. The bridge ("No, I cannot forget, where it is that I come from; I cannot forget the people who love me.") just sends shivers down my spine. This is a guy who UNDERSTANDS what is real. Additionally, this is one of the most unconventionally written songs to ever be as popular as it was. There's not really a chorus, and there must be three different bridges. This is just a GREAT SONG, with absolutely no mistakes.

"Minutes to Memories" - Not the best written song on the record, but my favorite. This song just gets me every time I hear, "The old man told me this my son..I'm tellin' it to you." Once again, this guy understands what is real.

"Lonely Ol' Night" - This would have been even better if he'd saved it for Lonesome Jubilee. It really fits better on that record. Still an outstanding song.

"Rumbleseat" - Once again, the passage "I'm gonna stop putting myself down, I'm gonna turn my life around", just nails small town life on every level.

The rest of the record is great, but those songs are the ones that really stand out to me, and that I remember hearing on the radio twenty years ago. It's a crying shame that songs like these wouldn't even be played on the radio today, much less be the enormous hits they were in 1985. I remember "Small Town" being played so much that even I was a little tired of hearing it at the time. Now people would just laugh at it. SAD.

One of the all time great albums.......2004-12-21

Thanks for reading.
Enough has been written about this album, suffice to say this is one of the most important albums to come out of the 80s, if not the last century. A real masterpeice of lyrics, style, melodies and great singing.
A MUST for your music collection!

IF YOU NEED SOME NEW MUSIC, JUST BUY IT IF YOU DON'T OWN IT YET!

Average customer rating:

ecclectic, low budget, wholehearted
So-so.
Great CD
4 Stars...here's why.
1 Star...here's why...

No Place Like Home
Scarecrow & Tinmen
Manufacturer: Pamplin Music
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Christian Rock | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music

General | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music

Christian Alternative | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music

Christian Contemporary Music | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music

Rock | Christian & Gospel | Indie Music | Stores | Music
Similar Items:

Superhero

ASIN: B00000I8Z4
Release Date: 1999-04-13

Tracks:

Scarcrow And Tinmen
Gen X
Just Fine
No Place
Gospel Love
You Are My Son
Overcome
Hangin' On
Dreamy Light
Wandering Lamb

Customer Reviews:

ecclectic, low budget, wholehearted.......2006-06-03

I'm just responding to the guy who thought he was clever by saying that "they couldn't afford a vocal processor..."

Apparently you've never heard of an artist named Donovan, although you parents surely have. The vocal styling on the song "You Are My Son" is a tribute to Donovan's vocal style, and actually as original and courageous as a tribute gets.

So-so........2002-01-09

Eh, that's it? I've listened to this a few times and just can't get into it. Christian music has enough warbly ballads and mellow stuff. If I hadn't gotten and listened to "Superhero" before this CD, I would never have bought it. (Usually, it's a band's sophomore effort that stinks! But, in S&T's case it's the next one which peels the paint off the walls.) The production quality is very good. It doesn't sound too echoey or pre-packaged. The singing's good, but I'm not sure what their style is? All in all, skip past this one and buy "Superhero".

Great CD.......2001-12-27

This CD deserves nothing but praise. The songs on the album are diverse and unique. I had a chance to meet the band this Winter at NCYC in INDIANAPOLIS (HEY BRAD, love the necklace)they are the coolest guys you'll ever meet. They are not stuck up or selfish. They want to hear from their fans and they love to talk to them. They rule, I don't want to hear anything ad about them ever. Chris also has the greatest wife and son in the world.

-Mark

4 Stars...here's why........2001-07-17

Without attacking Ben Van Meter and with all due respect to his opinions, I would like to give the "other side of the story" as it were.

On the song, "You Are My Son", Chris Padgett's unique vocal style comes through in a more clear way because it's the slowest song on the CD. I did not find the vocals a product of faulty production especially since it is produced by two of the best in the business, John and Dino Elefante. However, Padgett's vocal styling is definitely not for everyone. Those of you who like "normal" vocals will not want to purchase this CD. I also did not find the music style to fall short of its target audience. Scarecrow and Tinmen are not that far away from secular pop rock stars Vertical Horizon. However, the sounds are not identical and a fan of one band is not guaranteed to be a fan of the other.

Scarecrow and Tinmen ultimely deliver a CD worth purchasing for those of you who are more adventurous. "Scarecrow and Tinmen" and "Dreamy Light" are the strongest radio friendly songs on the CD while "You Are My Son" delves deep into the love God has for all of his children. On their debut release, S&T delivers a solid effort. Is there room for improvement? Absolutely. Is this CD a complete loss? Absolutely not.

Side note: Their sophomore release "Superhero" is the result of the band coming into their own musically and contains the hit "God is Good".

1 Star...here's why..........2001-05-17

Of the songs I have heard off of Scarecrow and Tinmen's first album, I thought all of it was trash. What do I mean by trash? Well, as a style, it sounds like something that organic records possibly fabricated in an attempt to appeal to a certain target market, which I can only presume is a youth audience of 8-12. Supposedly it was meant to be something that college students and highschool students would like, but it's something many of us laugh at. In the song "You are my son", it sounds like the band had no money for a vocal effects processor, so the lead singer had to echo himself "You-you are-are my my my son son". Really annoying basically. I do believe that the singer had good heart with the song, but musically bombed. I like a broad range of music, so I don't think this is simply an issue of "not my style". I didn't mean to discredit the other people who evaluated this cd with 5 stars, but I'm just trying to make sure you're happy with what you spend that (money) on. If you don't like Scarecrow and Tinmen, then check out these (real) Christian bands: Deliriou5?, Jars of Clay, POD, Project 86, Plumb, Grammatrain, Fold Zandura, Fono, ect. Maybe Scarecrow and Tinmen cleaned up their act (I don't know), so possibly check out their sophomore release...

Average customer rating:

Scarecrow

ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music
ASIN: B000H5TYMS
Release Date: 2006-10-24

Average customer rating:

Quite good Death Industrial
awesome dark industrial
shivers down your spine---granteed!
decaying nectarines
quality modern industrial

Curse of the Scarecrow
Megaptera
Manufacturer: Release
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Rock | Styles | Music

Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music
ASIN: B000007T2J
Release Date: 1998-06-30

Tracks:

Disturbance
Cog-Wheel Machinery
Don't Desecrate The Dead
The Curse Of The Scarecrow
More Disturbance
Hear My Bowels
Kingdom Of Death
Skullfracture

Customer Reviews:

Quite good Death Industrial.......2001-04-08

There are many Death Industrial/Darkwave bands out there, and as far as I have seen, not a single one of them is similar! This is great, not only do you have diversity, but you are not in danger of encountering monotony as well!

The bellow review compares Megaptera with Raison D'être, but makes it clear to note there are potential differences between these two musical acts. After one is drawn to these differences (Peter Anderson's music being of a more ethereal, spiritual nature, whereas Magnus Sundström's is located on the realm of the disturbing) on does not find a proper model of comparison. This is understandable, bearing in mind the diversity between Death Industrial/Darkwave bands. But I would like to make a comparison between Megaptera and another legendary Death Industrial act, just for you to know how good this Musical cult is.

Megaptera is in many ways similar to Roger Karmanik's "Brighter Death Now" on the veins of what it tries to convey. Although less grotesque and morbid than Brighter Death Now, Megaptera focuses on disturbing the listener with harsh and distant drones, deep atmospheres and horrific thematic. (The Curse of the Scarecrow is like the soundtrack of a long lost horror movie) Whereas Brighter Death Now's aim is to create the sounds of social and moral decay (Note: This is unfortunately rather cliché, for many composers of today's extreme music seem to preach the same all over again) Megaptera plays with sounds and silence to convey that same image of despair and horror. With the disturbing dialogues of an obscure horror film (and I say obscure because I don't know the movie's name!), this "Curse of the Scarecrow" is a most have for all of us who enjoy the dark visions of those fine musicians from the Old Continent!

awesome dark industrial.......2000-06-27

Megaptera are the kings of dark industrial. Well... maybe second only to Raison D'Etre, but RD'E is not quite this disturbed. Where RD'E tries to be beautiful or at least artistic, Megaptera's only goal is total darkness and morbidity. They sample some strange and sometimes obscure horror films in place of vocals or chants so don't expect an "agenda" from them. They just enjoy the pure darkness of their craft. This is great for sleeping to... if you want nightmares.

shivers down your spine---granteed!.......2000-03-13

Dense, thick low drones, distant voices and chants, clanking metal... this is the sound of post-nuclear war nightmare. This CD is a pure delight to a true death industrial fan! Turn the lights off and play it LOUD!

decaying nectarines.......1999-05-01

This album can only be described adequately as - decaying nectarines. Dark, deep and very moody. This is one to listen to on your own with the curtains shut and all ht lights turned off. Buy it.

quality modern industrial.......1999-02-27

Deep intense multi-layered industrial for fans of raison d'etre. Big Scandanavian feel to this new release by Megaptera. Very dark soundscapes held together by abraisive mechanical rhythms.

Songs for Sensational Kids Vol. 1: The Wiggly Scarecrow

Average customer rating:

Songs for Sensational Kids Vol. 1: The Wiggly Scarecrow
Coles Whalen
Manufacturer: Coles Whalen
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Folk | Styles | Music

General | Miscellaneous | Styles | Music

General | Children's Music | Styles | Music

General | Folk | Indie Music | Stores | Music
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Sensational Kids: Hope and Help for Children with Sensory Processing Disorder
Raising a Sensory Smart Child: The Definitive Handbook for Helping Your Child with Sensory Integration Issues
28 Instant Songames with Book(s)
The Out-of-Sync Child: Recognizing and Coping with Sensory Processing Disorder, Revised Edition
The Out-of-Sync Child has fun

ASIN: B000CA7NGW
Release Date: 2005-04-21

Tracks:

Playing Games is All about Fun
My Mouth
Dancin' Cowboy Rodeo
I'm a Little Airplane
Balancing Me
My Brain Is a Working Machine
Roly Poly
The Wiggly Scarecrow
How Does It Go?
O-My-Brush-A
Top Secret Noisy Hushy Troop
Wishy Washy Men
Noilee & Prat
Nappy King
Breathing

Product Description

Children will be inspired to dance and sing along to the tunes of Coles Whalen's guitar. The funky western sound of "Dancing Cowboy Rodeo" will help enhance childrens balance and coordination while the uptempo beat of "The Wishy Washy Men" can be used to teach children to keep movements and voices in control as an activity gets faster and faster. "The Wiggly Scarecrow" helps children understand their uniqueness and builds self-esteem as they learn the lyrics and sing with confidence.

An added feature of the CD is that it comes with a downloadable PDF of how to use the songs to move, think, relate and rest. It includes lyrics, activities, and information on how each song relates to sensory processing disorder. Fun for any child!